Sarbanes Statement on President Obama’s Visit to the Islamic Society of Baltimore Mosque

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Sarbanes (D-Md.) issued the following statement today after President Obama visited the Islamic Society of Baltimore Mosque to recognize the important contributions of Muslim Americans to our society and to highlight America's long tradition of religious tolerance:

"As Americans, religious freedom is baked into our DNA. The finer moments of our history are those where we have stood up to bigotry and prejudice. In that spirit, we must seize every opportunity to celebrate the contributions that proud and diverse communities – like Maryland's Muslim community – bring to our broader society. That's why President Obama's remarks this morning should resonate with all of us. They speak to our shared values and remind us of our nation's strong and unwavering commitment to religious tolerance. Today, it is more important than ever that Americans come together to promote honest and respectful dialogue among people of different faiths and backgrounds. Our diversity is our strength."

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