TLHRC Press Conference - Defending Freedoms Project

The aim of the initiative is to increase attention and support for human rights and religious freedom through a focus on prisoners of conscience around the world.

Logo for Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission

(WASHINGTON DC) - The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission (TLHRC) in conjunction with the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) & Amnesty International USA cordially invites you to attend a press conference for the official launch of the Defending Freedoms project:

Thursday, December 6th, 2012
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
334 Cannon House Office Building

The Defending Freedoms project is a new initiative spearheaded by the TLHRC.  The aim of the initiative is to increase attention and support for human rights and religious freedom through a focus on prisoners of conscience around the world.  Specifically, Members of Congress will “adopt” prisoners of conscience, standing in solidarity with these brave men and women, while committing to advocate publicly for their release.  Gao Zhisheng and Nabeel Rajab are the first prisoners to be selected.  Others will follow as the initiative grows.

The goals and strategies of the Defending Freedoms project will be discussed in greater detail at the press conference.

Remarks by:

- Rep. Frank R. Wolf, Co-chairman, Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission

- Rep. James P. McGovern, Co-chairman, Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission

- Dr. Katrina Lantos Swett, Chair, U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom

- Annette Lantos, Chairman, Lantos Foundation for Human Rights and Justice

- Frank Jannuzi, Head of Washington, D.C. Office, Amnesty International USA