Professor Robert George (pictured), one of America’s foremost champions of religious freedom has been confirmed as the 
chair of the Chairman of the U.S Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF).
He was sworn into office by the Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court John Roberts on Monday.
The Commission is an independent, bipartisan U.S. federal government commission, the first of its kind in the world, dedicated to defending the universal right to freedom of religion or belief abroad.
Each year, it produces a report on religious freedom around the globe which highlights the countries in which religious freedom has regressed or advanced.
It has highlighted the growing threats faced by Christians in the Middle East and in China.
The Commission reviews the facts and circumstances of religious freedom violations and makes policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State, and Congress.
Professor George took the oath of office on the Bible of renowned abolitionist Harriet Tubman. Dr. Cornel West, an academic colleague of Professor George, held the bible as Dr. George took the oath in Chief Justice Roberts’ chambers.
“I am deeply honored to have been sworn in by the Chief Justice as USCIRF’s Chairman, humbled by taking my oath of office on Harriet Tubman’s bible, and uplifted by the participation of my colleague and dear friend, Dr. West,” said Professor George.
He added: “In addition to my deep thanks to Chief Justice Roberts, I am grateful that the Harriet Tubman Home has graciously allowed the use of her bible, and for Dr. West’s presence today.
“Dr. West and I are profoundly united in our commitment to the precious right of religious freedom for all and to the cause of defending the victims of persecution and injustice across the globe.”
Dr. West said “I am blessed to stand beside my dear brother and distinguished colleague, Robert George, as he reaffirms his deep commitment to the religious liberty of each and every one of us both here and abroad.”
“My experience today reinforces my view of the urgency of USCIRF’s work in support of human dignity and freedom and against religious persecution – so often violent and even lethal – in so many places around the globe,” concluded Professor George.