Syrian American Democracy Conference Highlights Peacebuilding and Inclusive Governance, Standing in Solidarity with Israeli Community Following D.C. Hate Crimes

May 27, 2025

Press Statement: Syrian American Democracy Conference Highlights Peacebuilding and Inclusive Governance, Standing in Solidarity with Israeli Community Following D.C. Hate Crimes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Monday, May 12, 2025, the Syrian American Conference on Democracy was held on the Capitol Hill complex, hosted by the Alawite Association of the United States, in partnership with the Free Syrian Civil Movement and the New Palmyra Foundation. The conference was convened to raise awareness about the urgent threats facing Syria’s religious and ethnic minority communities—particularly the Alawite population—and to advance bipartisan policy solutions that promote human rights, pluralism, and inclusive governance in Syria.

The event brought together religious freedom advocates, civil society leaders, and members of Congress to discuss actionable steps the U.S. government can take to protect vulnerable communities and support a democratic future for Syria. Policy recommendations focused on humanitarian access, inclusive security, freedom of the press, and holding accountable those responsible for ethnic violence and war crimes.

We remain grateful for congressional champions who signed onto the "Dear Colleague" letter affirming U.S. support for Syria’s persecuted minorities and calling for democratic inclusion in any future Syrian governance framework. In addition, we were thrilled to host a portion of our conference on Capitol Hill. Due to a change in the House voting schedule and in accordance with Capitol Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) rules, the remainder of the conference was held at a nearby hotel. Following courageous panel discussions and survivor testimony, conference attendees conducted a series of bipartisan congressional meetings to reiterate the importance of protecting minorities and indigenous communities in Syria.

The Alawite Association of the United States and its partners extend their sincere thanks to members of Congress for their support of Syria’s ethnoreligious minorities. We look forward to working alongside Congress to advance policies that ensure justice, dignity, and representation for all Syrians.

The conference itself focused on peacebuilding and good governance while Syria works toward respect for all regardless of belief, thought or conscience. To that end, AAUS stands in unwavering solidarity with our Jewish brothers and sisters in the wake of the tragic shooting of two Israeli embassy staffers on May 22. We condemn this senseless act of violence and extend our heartfelt prayers to the victims, their families, and the broader Jewish community. Acts of political or religious violence—whether in the Middle East or on our own soil—must never be tolerated. As advocates for peace, pluralism, and human dignity, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting all faith communities from hatred and harm.

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:

Dr. Morhaf Ibrahim

Alawites Association of the United States

info@AlawitesAssociation.org

+1202-599-4459

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