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CAPAC Chair Chu Condemns Spate of Anti-Muslim Comments

September 21, 2015

WASHINGTON, DC – On Sunday, September 20, Ben Carson said that Islam is inconsistent with the U.S. Constitution and that he would be uncomfortable with a Muslim in the White House. The remark came just days after Donald Trump entertained a question at a rally about how America can “get rid of” Muslims. Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) Chair Rep. Judy Chu released the following statement:

“I am shocked at the way anti-Islamic language is being used today. It’s not only unbefitting the world’s leading democracy, but it has real dangers for our country. From our founding, America was established by and for people of all religions. And since then, Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, those without any religion, or those with any religion have contributed to our country. We are strengthened by an embrace of diversity. Our founders knew that, which is why they enshrined in the Constitution that there should be no religious test for any public office.

“It is saddening to imagine the hard working and patriotic American children who might aspire to be leaders one day, feeling instead targeted and unwelcome because of these remarks. Most importantly, we know that this kind of rhetoric can influence action. Demonizing and ostracizing the American-Muslim community, or any community, runs the risk of encouraging violence against these groups. We must do more to bring our country together, not draw false and dangerous lines. Our country is better than to rely on fear of others.”

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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and Members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.