WASHINGTON: In a historic first, Pakistani-American Dr. Asif Mahmood has been appointed Vice Chair of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF).
Dr. Mahmood, originally from Kharian, is the first Pakistani, first South Asian, and first Muslim to be elected to this powerful position within the Commission.
The chairpersonship of USCIRF has been handed over to former Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler, while Dr. Mahmood’s nomination was made by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Chairperson Hartzler stated that it is an honor to serve in this role and pledged to work alongside Dr. Mahmood and other commissioners to defend religious freedoms worldwide.
Speaking to a TV channel, Dr. Mahmood expressed his deep gratitude and pride at the appointment. “It is a tremendous honor,” he said, “and a crucial responsibility to advocate for freedom of religion or belief beyond party lines. USCIRF’s bipartisan structure makes it a central institution in promoting these rights.”
Dr. Mahmood emphasized the importance of policy advocacy to ensure all people have the right to live according to their conscience. He added that religious freedom remains as vital today as ever and requires sincere efforts that transcend political affiliation.
A pulmonologist by profession, Dr. Mahmood has been practicing medicine in California for nearly 25 years. He is also an active philanthropist and serves on the board of Hope the Mission, one of California’s largest homeless shelters.
As a long-time human rights advocate, Dr. Mahmood has frequently raised his voice against oppression in South Asia, particularly the situation in Indian-administered Kashmir.
Politically, Dr. Mahmood has been affiliated with the Democratic Party and served as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention from 2008 to 2016. He has also played key roles in presidential campaigns and is known to have close ties with former Vice President Kamala Harris and the Clinton family.
In 2022, Dr. Mahmood ran for Congress from California’s 40th district but lost to Republican incumbent Young Kim.
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