WASHINGTON DC, The United States: To demand full restoration of the Jannat al-Baqee cemetery in the holy city of Medina, Saudi Arabia, Muslim leaders and people of conscience from across the United States will gather outside the Embassy of the Royal Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Friday September 17, 2010.

This date marks the demolition of the holy gravesite in 1925 that sparked a concerted campaign of oppression against the Shi’a Muslims of Saudi Arabia. As the burial place of many important personalities in Islam and a central holy site to Shi’a Muslims, Jannat al-Baqee represents greater injustices that happen within and around Saudi Arabia, including the recent attacks against women and children.

The Baqee Organization, a coalition of American-Muslim citizens committed to religious tolerance and peace, has urged the American government to release a formal condemnation against the oppressing activities happening within Saudi Arabia and its funding of these activities worldwide.

As a strong ally of the United States, Saudi Arabia should stand strong in our commitment to end oppression, and is expected to uphold the values of the American constitution in defending religious freedom and providing safe spaces for worship within its borders. Moreover, the organization demands full restoration of the Jannat al-Baqee cemetery and safety for pilgrims who travel there in the interest of religious freedom and security for American citizens.

The demonstration will be held on Friday, September 17, 2010 from 2pm-5pm at the Royal Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia located at 601 New Hampshire Ave, NW Washington, DC 20037.