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Honoring the Legacy of President Jimmy Carter, a Champion for Peace and Religious Liberty

WASHINGTON—Following the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, Martine Miller, Interim President and CEO of the International Center for Religion & Diplomacy (ICRD), shared the following statement:

“It is with profound sadness that we at the International Center for Religion & Diplomacy (ICRD) join millions around the world in mourning the passing of former President Jimmy Carter. His unwavering commitment to peace, human dignity, and religious liberty leaves a guiding light for all who strive to create a more just and harmonious world.

“President Carter’s leadership was rooted in a steadfast belief in the universal right to freedom of conscience and worship. Throughout his presidency and decades of global advocacy through The Carter Center, he worked tirelessly to defend these principles. He recognized that religious liberty is a cornerstone of human rights, a foundation for thriving democracies, and a bridge to mutual understanding across cultures and faiths.

“President Carter’s dedication to fostering dialogue, protecting human rights, and addressing the root causes of conflict remains a profound source of inspiration. From mediating peace agreements to eradicating diseases in vulnerable regions and building homes with Habitat for Humanity, his life was a testament to the power of servant leadership and the pursuit of justice. His ability to unite people across deep divides exemplified the essence of reconciliation and diplomacy.

“At ICRD, we are particularly inspired by President Carter’s vision of faith as a force for unity and his belief that religious actors have a crucial role to play in promoting peace and advancing human dignity. His work laid the groundwork for countless efforts to uphold religious freedom and resolve conflicts rooted in misunderstanding and oppression.

“As we reflect on his extraordinary life and legacy, we are reminded that the work of building peace is both a moral obligation and a shared responsibility. President Carter’s lifelong commitment to these values will continue to inform and inspire ICRD’s mission for generations to come.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Carter family and all those grieving the loss of this remarkable leader. May his memory be a blessing and his legacy a call to action for all who seek to build a more compassionate and peaceful world.”