The KAICIID Board of Directors today issued the following statement in response to the attack on Coptic Christian worshippers returning from  a monastery in the Minya region of Egypt:

“We are deeply saddened by the news of this attack, which is a gross violation of human rights, and adds to the growing worrying trend of attacking people based on their religious affiliation. 

The Coptic Christian community has been the target of repeated violent attacks, including a similar attack in May 2017 which killed dozens of people, including children.

A diversity of religious traditions is a cultural and spiritual asset in any society, and must be protected. That any person should have to fear violence from their neighbors and fellow citizens because of their religious affiliation is unacceptable. 

We offer our deepest condolences to the Egyptians Christians and Muslims and all those who have lost loved ones in this grievous attack. We extend our support to His Holiness Pope Tawandros , Primate of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria in this time of sorrow. His Holiness Pope Tawadros and the Coptic Church have been friends and partners of KAICIID for many years. We stand with them in upholding the principles of common citizenship and the equal rights of all people.