Letter
Letter to Senate on Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act, May 6, 2016
Letter from Bishop Oscar Cantu, Chairman, Committee on International Justice and Peace to Senate on Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act, May 6, 2016
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops supports Senate Bill 2551, the Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act of 2016, and urges funding for conflict management and mitigation programs. The Church advocates justice, reconciliation, and human development to foster peace. The U.S. has historically led efforts to prevent genocide, with bipartisan support culminating in the creation of the Atrocities Prevention Board (APB) under President Obama. The APB has effectively coordinated responses to crises in the Central African Republic and Burundi, with support from the Church.
The bishops commend the APB’s collaboration with State and USAID, and emphasize the need for continued authorization and funding, including for the Complex Crises Fund. They call for increased U.S. investment in conflict prevention to meet global needs and uphold America’s leadership in promoting peace and security.