Rep. Bilirakis to Host Exhibit on July 19 Highlighting Challenges Facing Religious Minorities

Washington, DC (July 17, 2012) – Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), along with Reps. Trent Franks (R-AZ), Brad Sherman (D-CA), and Heath Shuler (D-NC), and the International Religious Freedom Caucus, are hosting an exhibit of religious minorities throughout the Middle East that will be held in the Rayburn Foyer from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, July 19th, 2012.

"I have worked to condemn violations of religious freedom throughout the world," Bilirakis said. "Unfortunately, this tragedy continues to persist, and this event will provide an opportunity to learn from national experts about the challenges religious minorities face all around the globe."

The event will highlight the challenges religious minorities face throughout the Middle East, with representatives from communities such as the Coptic Christians of Egypt, Baha'i of Iran, and Assyrians and Yezidis of Iraq.

Remarks will begin at 6:30 p.m. and feature members of Congress, as well as Dr. Suzan D. Johnson Cook, United States Ambassador-at-Large for Religious Freedom. Dr. Katrina Lantos Swett, chair of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom and President and Chief Executive Officer of The Lantos Foundation will deliver the keynote address.