2023 Religious Freedom Annual Review

Introduction

The International Center for Law and Religion Studies (ICLRS) hosted the 9th annual religious freedom review at Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo. This conference is to provide up-to-date information on the status of laws affecting religious freedom in the United States. The conference is open to the public. The speakers and panelists all have extensive backgrounds dealing with religion and religious freedom.

Student Reflections

Valerie Agustin

Attending the Religious Freedom Annual Review proved to be an enriching journey, offering not only valuable networking opportunities but also profound encounters with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Engaging in discussions with figures like Uzma Jafri, a Muslim advocate, shed light on societal challenges faced by women, prompting personal reflections and a renewed commitment to support marginalized communities. This connection spurred further research initiatives, buoyed by offers of collaboration and guidance, exemplifying the conference's capacity to catalyze meaningful action. Similarly, interactions with prominent figures such as Janett Scott and David Pollei underscored the potential for collective efforts in addressing pressing issues, from religious freedom to environmental concerns, fostering a sense of empowerment and solidarity in pursuing positive change.

Moreover, the conference sessions facilitated thought-provoking insights and practical applications, ranging from technological innovations like the JustServe app to impassioned calls for interfaith understanding and workplace equality. These discussions resonated deeply, inspiring a commitment to service and advocacy, particularly in challenging discriminatory practices. Additionally, encounters with esteemed professionals like Judge Thomas Griffith and interactions within academic settings like BYU Law School offered valuable guidance and perspective, reaffirming personal aspirations and fostering a deeper understanding of potential pathways for effecting meaningful societal impact. Through these experiences, the conference not only provided a platform for cultural exchange and mentorship but also ignited a sense of purpose and renewed determination to effect positive change in the Philippines and beyond.

Fahina Lauti

Participating in the religious freedom conference was a transformative journey that deeply influenced my perspective and sense of purpose, leaving an indelible mark on my life. Immersed in sessions led by impactful speakers like Uzma Jafri and Adela Cojab, I was enlightened to the profound significance of embracing diversity and amplifying the voices of religious minorities. Their insights ignited a fervent commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding, fueled by the transformative potential of technology in facilitating connections across faiths, as exemplified by Trey Ferguson's discourse.

The personal narrative shared by Kori Porter during the general session resonated deeply, serving as a poignant reminder of the intrinsic link between religious freedom and individual fulfillment. Sharon Eubank's impassioned call to action further fueled my resolve to actively engage in initiatives promoting unity and empathy, recognizing the profound impact of collective action in advancing human dignity. Reconnecting with esteemed colleagues and forging new alliances at the conference underscored the power of collaboration in championing the cause of religious freedom, reinforcing a shared sense of purpose and determination to effect positive change. Reflecting on this transformative experience, I am filled with gratitude for the enriching dialogue, meaningful connections, and renewed commitment to fostering an inclusive society where the rights and dignity of all individuals are upheld and celebrated.

Andrea George

The Religious Freedom Annual Review provided an enlightening and enriching experience, deepening my understanding of the vital role of religious freedom in societal progress. Immersed in a space that celebrated diversity and unity, I encountered professionals and scholars dedicated to championing this cause, inspiring a personal commitment to pursue a career path aligned with promoting human dignity. Visiting the BYU Law School and BYU MPA program, facilitated by Professor Kajiyama, further fueled my aspirations, offering a glimpse into the transformative impact of these programs and reinforcing my determination to pursue graduate studies despite the financial challenges as an international student.

Amidst the conference's spiritual atmosphere, characterized by a collective dedication to religious freedom, I envisioned a world where kindness towards diverse faiths fosters collaboration and unity. Witnessing the power of religious institutions in providing sanctuary for individuals underscored the importance of societal acceptance and respect for diverse beliefs. Proud of the diverse and unified team representing the Religious Freedom and Human Dignity Initiative at BYUH, I am inspired to carry forward the lessons learned, advocating for religious freedom and human dignity in my home community of the Cook Islands. This conference has ignited a passion within me to foster understanding, promote inclusivity, and work toward a society where religious diversity is celebrated and safeguarded.

Abish Torio

The 2023 Religious Freedom Annual Review Conference left a lasting impact on me, particularly through the profound connections forged and the spirit of action that permeated the event. Engaging with presenters, law students, alumni, and fellow attendees provided invaluable insights into their journeys and aspirations. Meaningful conversations with individuals like the Nelsons and Bill Benac opened doors to potential collaborations and volunteer opportunities, while interactions with Blythe Shupe and others offered valuable training and learning experiences. Reconnecting with friends and colleagues from past events, such as the Law and Religion Symposium, added a special depth to the conference experience, reinforcing the sense of community and shared purpose.

Moreover, the conference provided opportunities for tangible action, as exemplified by the collaborative efforts to ensure all presenters reached the dinner venue at Sundance. Through teamwork and trust, we successfully navigated a potentially stressful situation, highlighting the importance of solidarity and effective communication. The messages of empowerment and hope conveyed by the professionals at the conference fueled a renewed commitment to contribute to the betterment of my community, inspired by the lessons learned and the connections made. This transformative experience has equipped me with the tools and motivation to not only enrich my own life but also to positively impact the lives of others, embodying the essence of service and purpose central to the BYUH campus ethos.

John Zenger

The Religious Freedom Annual Review proved to be a transformative educational experience, offering insightful breakout and plenary sessions that delved into the complexities of religious freedom. Attending a session on podcasting in America provided intriguing perspectives on the evolving nature of religious communities, with podcasting emerging as a modern avenue for communal gathering and discourse. Elder Gilbert’s call to steward the First Amendment resonated deeply, encapsulating the conference's central theme of protecting religious freedom while fostering inclusivity and love. The conference was not only academically enriching but also provided a platform for meaningful connections and interactions with individuals like Ben Schilaty, whose session on inclusive congregations left a profound impact. Connecting with figures like Judge Griffith and conference planner Lydia Veraga offered valuable insights into career development and organizational leadership, inspiring considerations of pursuing further education in law and public administration.

The trip also provided invaluable opportunities for career exploration and development, with visits to the BYU MPA and Law programs offering clarity and direction for future academic pursuits. Interacting with professors and professionals in these fields offered valuable guidance and reassurance, while also highlighting the multicultural richness of BYU-Hawaii and its unique ability to foster comfort and understanding among individuals of diverse backgrounds. Overall, the conference catalyzed both academic growth and personal connections, reaffirming the importance of education, community, and cultural diversity in shaping individual journeys and aspirations.

Gavin Cranney

Attending the Religious Freedom Annual Review conference proved to be a deeply enriching and beneficial experience, providing invaluable insights across three key areas: education and career development, academic enrichment, and conference skills and resources. The conference catalyzed clarifying career aspirations and pathways, particularly through tours, meetings, and conversations with representatives from various law and graduate programs. Professor Kajiyama's facilitation of these interactions reignited enthusiasm for further education and professional growth, transforming abstract ideas into tangible possibilities. Moreover, the conference fostered professional networking opportunities, facilitating connections that bridged diverse backgrounds and perspectives, exemplified by collaborations with individuals like Jannah Scott on cultural conflict resolution in Armenia, showcasing the potential for unity amidst differences.

Academically, the conference offered intellectually stimulating discussions on contemporary social issues and religious freedom, equipping attendees with nuanced perspectives and empathy for diverse viewpoints. The engagement with presenters' ideas and concepts not only reignited a passion for learning but also prompted further exploration through reading and reflection. Additionally, the conference provided invaluable insights into event planning and organization, offering practical experience in overseeing complex logistical tasks. Collaborating with ICLRS student fellows and conference organizers imparted essential skills and resources for orchestrating future conferences at BYU-Hawaii, ensuring a legacy of efficient and impactful events that contribute to the university's mission and the Church's objectives.

Summary Reports

Religious Organizations: Engagement in the Broader Community

The discussion on religious organizations' engagement in the broader community highlighted the impactful efforts of various groups. Juan Becerra from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasized the importance of humanitarian aid rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ, including initiatives such as feeding the hungry and comforting the afflicted, regardless of their affiliation with the Church. Gerardo Peña showcased Chicanos Por La Causa's empowerment initiatives for marginalized communities, such as combating unemployment and providing support for victims of domestic violence and human trafficking, with plans to expand services in Utah. Jannah Scott, CEO of the American Center for Religious Freedom, emphasized the common motivation of love and compassion across religious divides, citing examples of collaboration among different faiths in addressing societal needs, such as active shooter preparedness and assistance for the homeless and veterans. Their collective message underscored the power of organizations to address societal issues through partnership, compassion, and a shared commitment to serving those in need, transcending religious differences.

Serving Together: The Roles of Religious Organizations in the Humanitarian Work

 
The discussion on the roles of religious organizations in humanitarian work highlighted the diverse yet valuable insights shared by the speakers. Sharon Eubank, from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasized the importance of fostering positive change and resilience through shared activities and experiences, such as music, humor, and emotional connections, while promoting unity through collaborative projects like rebuilding houses of worship. She introduced the JustServe app as a platform for community outreach and service projects, facilitating cooperation among different faiths. Mary Ana McGlasson, Director of the Centre for Humanitarian Leadership at Deakin University, emphasized the transformative potential of individuals driven by faith in addressing community needs, citing examples from history like Henry Dunant and Florence Nightingale. McGlasson stressed the urgency for humanitarian response, advocating for ethical principles and collaboration among organizations to bridge religious disparities and create a compassionate world, underlining the significant role faith can play in addressing global challenges.

Accommodations in the Workplace at the Supreme Court

The discussion centered on the evolution of religious accommodation jurisprudence, particularly focusing on the pending Supreme Court case of Groff v. DeJoy. Nathan Diament provided a historical overview, highlighting the foundation laid by Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and subsequent court interpretations, including the diluted "de minimus effect" standard set by Trans World Airlines, Inc. v. Hardison. The case of Groff v. DeJoy, where the plaintiff was denied a reasonable accommodation not to work on Sundays, was examined for its potential to overturn the Hardison standard and restore a higher threshold for religious accommodations. Todd McFarland expanded on the potential outcomes of the case, emphasizing the importance of the justices involved and predicting favorable results regardless of the decision writer. The impact of the Groff decision on local businesses was discussed, noting that it would be implemented through HR channels, albeit not affecting small businesses covered under Title VII. Lastly, factors considered in selecting cases, including their potential for change and impact, dedication of members, and financial coverage by organizations like the Seventh-day Adventist, were outlined.

Podcasting Religious Community in America Part I

The podcasting panel featured Steven Kapp Perry discussing "In Good Faith," Adela Cojab on "Americanish Podcast," Trey Ferguson with "Three Black Men Podcast," and Uzma Jafri representing "Mommying While Muslim Podcast." Each podcaster shared their motivation for starting their respective podcasts, ranging from providing a platform for underrepresented communities to discussing personal journeys and faith experiences. They addressed challenges such as backlash on sensitive topics, including transgender rights and feminism, emphasizing the importance of remaining true to their beliefs while navigating the responsibility of representing their communities. Despite facing criticism, they highlighted the significance of their podcasts in fostering dialogue, understanding, and support within their respective religious communities and beyond. They acknowledged the influence of podcasting on their religiosity, recognizing it as both an opportunity and a challenge to serve as ambassadors for their faith while upholding their own beliefs and values with diligence and dedication.

General Discussion Session

The discussion, featuring Elizabeth A. Clark, Anne Snyder, Bob Smietana, and Daryl Paul Lobban, centered on the decline of religious institutions and strategies for their revitalization. Anne Snyder metaphorically explored the spiritual malaise afflicting churches, urging them to reclaim their soulfulness and social justice engagement beyond mere affiliation. Bob Smietana humorously outlined reasons for declining religious congregations, advocating for decisive, incremental changes to make churches more appealing and less institutionalized. While acknowledging the decline, Smietana remained optimistic about religion's potential for a positive impact if reformed. Daryl Paul Lobban echoed concerns about stagnation in religious institutions, proposing a return to historical models of activism and a relinquishing of power to better serve communities in need, drawing inspiration from figures like Howard Thurman and Martin Luther King Jr. Overall, the panel called for a reinvigoration of religious institutions through renewed purpose, adaptability, and a commitment to social justice.

Why Protect the Religious Freedom of Religious Organizations?

The discussion on protecting the religious freedom of religious organizations featured perspectives from Shaina Hullet, Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Reiner Platt, and Thomas Griffith. Hullet emphasized the communal and institutional aspects of religion, highlighting the importance of safeguarding religious organizations' autonomy against government intrusion to maintain their role in fostering religious commitments and contributing to the common good. Reiner Platt, approaching the topic as an outsider and abortion rights activist, raised questions about the nuanced distinctions between different types of religious organizations, the meaning of protection, and the complexity of conflicts involving religious liberty and secular rights. She warned against overlooking multiple interests at play and potential limitations on individuals' religious practices. Griffith, acknowledging the complexity of the issues, emphasized the need for respectful dialogue and understanding, reflecting on his Christian faith and experiences encountering hostility due to assumptions about his religious beliefs. He underscored the importance of overcoming contempt and fostering a society where everyone can flourish through compromise and changing mindsets about others.

How can we Make Others Feel More Welcome?

Ben Schilaty, an Adjunct Professor and Honor Code Administrator at Brigham Young University, shared his journey as a gay Latter-Day Saint, underscoring the importance of listening and understanding to foster a welcoming environment. He recounted his struggle with societal and religious beliefs regarding his orientation, highlighting the healing and acceptance he found when he openly embraced his identity and received support from friends and church leaders who sought to understand and include LGBTQ individuals. Barbara Gardner, an Associate Professor at BYU, reflected on her experiences as a woman in the church, advocating for outreach to individuals from diverse backgrounds and emphasizing the need for improvement within the church community to better invite and welcome others. She discussed the harm of presenting false images and encouraged active listening and validation, particularly for women while exploring societal perceptions and cultural influences on gender roles. Gardner stressed the value of recognizing women's unique strengths and divine nature, addressing societal comparisons and traditions that diminish women's power and significance.

Podcasting Religious Community in America Part II

Samuel Gay, co-host of the Three Black Men Podcast, shared the podcast's origin, emphasizing its role in fostering community and connection rather than as a mere necessity. He discussed the personal impact of the podcast's growth and community engagement, highlighting the importance of its target audience and the genuine love and labor invested in its creation. Zaiba Hasan, founder of Mommying While Muslim, recounted how her child's experience inspired her involvement in the podcast, aiming to address the struggles of Muslim mothers and provide a safe space for discussions and resource sharing. The podcast's impact was measured not by monetary gain but by the positive difference it made in listeners' lives. Robert Monson, another co-host of Three Black Men and a theologian, elaborated on the podcast's inception from a desire for authentic conversations about faith, particularly from diverse perspectives lacking in mainstream Christian podcasts. He emphasized the podcast's commitment to exploring spirituality openly, even amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, striving to provide meaningful content through genuine engagement and self-investment.

Challenges and Opportunities for Religious Institutions

During the panel discussion moderated by Paul S. Edwards from the BYU Wheatley Institute, Russell Moore of Christianity Today underscored the need for religious institutions to serve as models of moral integrity and authenticity, addressing the challenges of cultural shifts and the loss of trust in religious authority. Jonathan Rauch from the Brookings Institution delved into the intrinsic connection between crises within Christianity and democratic principles, highlighting the necessity of aligning Christian values with the foundational elements of forgiveness, fearlessness, and compassion to foster societal cohesion. Stephanie Summers of the Center for Public Justice expanded on the role of multifaith groups, emphasizing the importance of upholding values like human dignity and maintaining an open dialogue to navigate challenges and preserve religious pluralism within society. She emphasized the need for religious communities to engage in public policy discussions while staying true to their core beliefs and practices.

Faith-Based Humanitarian Action

During the discussion moderated by Paul E. Kerry from the International Center for Law and Religion Studies, Deborah Barry from Deakin University Center for Humanitarian Leadership stressed the significance of actively engaging in humanitarian work with principles of humanity, neutrality, and impartiality, advocating for strengthening families rather than relying on orphanages. Jennifer Brewer, a Global Humanitarian Consultant, highlighted the role of religiosity in humanitarian efforts, emphasizing the importance of seeing people as whole individuals and providing sustainable aid to address crises effectively. Leslie Wilson of Church World Service echoed the call for active involvement in humanitarian responses, emphasizing humility and the need for a code of conduct to guide those engaged in such work, promoting values and ethical standards within the humanitarian community.

General Discussion Session

During the introduction, speakers at the conference shared personal insights on why religious freedom holds significance to them. Kori Porter, CEO of the Peacemakers Coalition, recounted her transformative journey influenced by her grandmother's profound faith and her struggles with addiction, underscoring the importance of religious freedom in finding solace and redemption. Imam Marzuq, representing Imam W. Deen Mohammed’s American Muslim Community, highlighted the universal spiritual connection among humanity, stressing the need for religious freedom to foster unity and guide individuals back to their religious texts for a sense of belonging. Sharon Eubank, Director of Humanitarian Services at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasized the role of shared experiences in driving positive change, citing examples of sports, music, and humor as transformative tools, and encouraged cross-faith engagement in meaningful service activities to promote unity and understanding.

Respect for Marriage Act and Protections for Religious Institutions

Speakers emphasized the importance of safeguarding religious freedom alongside LGBTQ rights during the discussion on the Respect for Marriage Act. Tyler Deaton, a political strategist, highlighted the need for bipartisan support in addressing issues like religious freedom and anti-extremism. Tim Schultz, President of the 1st Amendment Partnership, described the Act as crucial legislation for religious freedom and stressed the necessity of collaboration between political factions to protect both religious liberties and LGBTQ rights, drawing parallels with Utah's success. Gene Schaerr, a Senior Fellow, detailed provisions of the Act, emphasizing its alignment with religious liberty protections and traditional values, particularly in light of the Obergefell case, while noting the Act's aim to preserve state powers and reinforce religious organizations' rights. The conference concluded with discussions on the Act's implications for church, family, and traditional values, with an acknowledgment of incremental progress in advancing religious liberty.

How Can I get Involved?

During a panel discussion, co-founders Bill Benac and Hannah Smith showcased the progress of their religious freedom fund, underscoring the importance of educating citizens on principled pluralism and the uniqueness of America in facilitating this endeavor. Reflecting on her pluralistic upbringing, Janet Nelson highlighted the significance of expanding one's social circle to foster religious freedom, sharing personal anecdotes to illustrate her point. Jeff Nelson emphasized the necessity of love and relationships in creating a religiously inclusive society, advocating for interfaith community service events, and involving younger generations. The discussion also pointed to resources like The Religious Freedom Alliance Council for inspiration and concluded with a quote from Thomas Jefferson, stressing the indispensable role of religion and morality in political prosperity. Overall, the panel underscored the importance of education, love, relationships, and community engagement in advocating for religious freedom and fostering understanding within communities.

Closing General Session

Elder Clark Gilbert, Commissioner of the Church Educational System, emphasizes the vital role of religious communities in embracing their countercultural identity and upholding religious freedom. He stresses the interconnectedness of religious freedom with other constitutional rights, citing landmark cases to illustrate its importance within the broader constitutional framework. Gilbert calls for proactive engagement in safeguarding religious freedom, challenging individuals to move beyond passive tolerance and assertively proclaim their beliefs. He highlights the transformative potential of religious institutions in fostering positive societal change through education, moral guidance, and acts of service. Gilbert concludes by emphasizing the collective responsibility to uphold religious freedom, recognizing its centrality in preserving societal harmony and fostering individual and communal well-being.