US Commission on International Religious Freedom Delegation Forced to Leave Saudi Heritage Site Due to Jewish Head Covering
The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) delegation encountered an unexpected incident during their official visit to the UNESCO heritage site of Diriyah, the historical residence of the Saudi royal family. The team was requested by Saudi officials to ask the chairman of the delegation, Rabbi Abraham Cooper, to remove his Jewish head covering, known as a kippah.
Background Information:
The USCIRF is an independent, bipartisan advisory body established by the United States Congress to monitor and report on the state of religious freedom abroad. The commission does not rely on government funding, making its assessments unbiased and impartial.
The Incident:
During their tour of the historic site in Diriyah, Rabbi Cooper was asked by Saudi officials to remove his kippah. Cooper, being an observant Jew, politely refused the request, stating that he couldn’t comply with such a demand. US embassy staff accompanying the delegation attempted to convey Cooper’s stance, but ultimately, site officials escorted the entire group out of the premises.
Previously Arranged Meetings:
Despite this unfortunate event, the delegation had previously scheduled meetings with various Saudi entities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Interior, and the Human Rights Commission.
Statement from USCIRF:
USCIRF Vice Chair Reverend Frederick A. Davie shared his thoughts on the incident, stating, “Saudi officials’ request for Chair Cooper to remove his kippah was stunning and painful. It directly contradicted not only the government’s official narrative of change but also genuine signs of greater religious freedom in the Kingdom that we observed firsthand.” He further emphasized, “While we appreciate the various meetings we had in country with interlocutors, this unfortunate incident starkly illustrates that much more work remains to be done for Saudi Arabia to align with international legal protections guaranteeing religious freedom.”
Cooper’s Perspective:
Rabbi Cooper expressed his disappointment, stating, “No one should be denied access to a heritage site, especially one intended to highlight unity and progress, simply for existing as a Jew.”
Implications:
This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in promoting religious freedom globally, even in countries that claim to be making progress. It underscores the importance of continuing efforts to advocate for and defend fundamental human rights, including religious freedom, wherever they are threatened or violated.
