Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Minorities

Statement by U.S. Ambassador Michèle Taylor

Human Rights Council – 52nd Session

Thank you, Madam Vice President.

Thank you, Special Rapporteur de Varennes, for your tireless efforts to advance the human rights of members of marginalized communities around the world, including the Uyghur minority that, as you noted, face arbitrary detention, forced labor, and the forced separation of children from their families in the People’s Republic of China.

We are keenly aware of the work we must continue to do at home in the U.S.  On February 16, President Biden signed a new Executive Order on Further Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government, as an acknowledgment of the work that our government must to do to advance equity for all, including people of color and others who have been historically underserved, marginalized, and adversely affected by persistent poverty and inequality.

As you frequently note, it is most often members of marginalized communities globally who bear disproportionate political, economic, and social burdens due to widespread systemic discrimination. These have been exacerbated by both the COVID-19 pandemic and by the devastating effects of climate change.

Mr. Special Rapporteur, the United States supports your efforts to promote inclusion, equality, equity, and access to justice for members of marginalized communities.

How can member states better secure environmental justice and equitable access to public services, including adequate housing, education, clean water and sanitation, and health care, for marginalized communities?

I thank you.

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