(Washington, D.C., Feb. 11, 2015)—The American Humanist Association strongly condemns the fatal acts of violence committed against Deah Barakat, his wife Yusor Abu-Salha and her sister Razan Abu-Salha in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, on Tuesday. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the victims. No matter what the motivation was behind this horrific act, all violence must be condemned, and the person who has been charged with this crime, Craig Stephen Hicks, must be brought to justice.

Humanists respect the inherent dignity of all human beings, regardless of belief. The American Humanist Association will continue to work with our religious and non-religious friends and allies toward a more progressive world that accepts the freedom to believe and not believe.