May 23, 2013
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Congressman John Conyers, Jr. (D-Mich) issued the following statement addressing Minister Louis Farrakhan’s remarks in Detroit, Michigan:
“Last Friday, I attended a speech by Minister Louis Farrakhan at Fellowship Chapel in Detroit, Michigan. During this speech, Minister Farrakhan made unacceptable racist, anti-Semitic, and homophobic statements, which I condemn in the strongest possible terms,” said Conyers.
“It was my expectation that Minister Farrakhan’s speech would focus on the many challenges facing the City of Detroit. In previous days he had discussed efforts to revitalize our city by purchasing property and investing in blighted neighborhoods. Regrettably, he used this opportunity to promote views that have no place in civilized discourse.
“The fact that Minister Farrakhan has engaged in important charitable work aimed at expanding economic opportunities for underserved communities does not excuse these statements. I sincerely offer my apologies to my constituents and others who also may have been offended by the minister’s words.”