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Rep. Chu Co-Hosts Briefing on Countering Violent Extremism: Threats, Challenges, and Solutions

July 14, 2016

Washington, DC - Yesterday, Reps. Judy Chu (CA-27), Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-09), Andre Carson (IN-07), and Keith Ellison (MN-05) hosted the second briefing in a series of discussions on Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) programs entitled “Countering Violent Extremism: Threats, Challenges, and Solutions”. Since the attacks in Orlando and San Bernardino and the Oregon militia standoff, there has been increased emphasis on CVE initiatives at home and abroad. As demonstrated by these events, the threat of domestic terrorism and homegrown violent extremism can arise from a range of individuals, groups, and ideologies. Yet, despite ongoing federal efforts, many questions have been raised about the effectiveness of programs designed to combat extremism. Today’s briefing was the second in a three-part series and was aimed at providing a platform for former government officials to discuss their work implementing CVE programs and consider reforms that would better address the diverse threats facing our country. Rep. Chu released the following statement:

“The horrific attacks in places like Orlando and San Bernardino have left us with pain, fear, and unanswered questions. Questions like: should we have seen this coming, and what could we have done to prevent them? Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) programs are intended to help by connecting law enforcement with communities in the hopes of identifying those who are susceptible to radicalization before an attack occurs. However, to be effective CVE must focus on all forms of extremism, instead of solely targeting the Muslim community. This targeting can lead communities to feel alienated by the government they are supposed to trust. At a time when terrorism from far right extremist groups in America have become a clear threat as evidenced in Charleston and Oregon, we cannot continue to treat more than 3 million Americans with suspicion solely because of their religion.”