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 Highlights
The discussions at the Religious Freedom Annual Review highlighted the vital role of religious organizations in humanitarian efforts, legal advocacy, and social engagement. Speakers emphasized how faith-based initiatives address societal issues such as poverty, violence, and workplace accommodations, demonstrating the power of interfaith collaboration in fostering community support. The panel on religious organizations’ engagement showcased efforts like humanitarian aid, legal protections, and the JustServe app, illustrating the diverse ways faith groups contribute to the broader community.
Other key sessions explored the legal landscape of religious freedom, including Supreme Court cases on workplace accommodations and protections under the Respect for Marriage Act. Podcasting panels highlighted the role of media in fostering religious dialogue, while discussions on revitalizing religious institutions stressed the need for adaptability, social justice engagement, and moral leadership. The conference concluded with calls for active involvement in safeguarding religious freedom through education, advocacy, and community service, reinforcing the idea that faith communities play an essential role in shaping a just and inclusive society.
For more insights, visit the PDF report below.
The key takeaway is that in employment, "In order to be equal, I need to be treated differently."
"In a world of religious diversity, love and compassion transcend differences. Let us unite in fulfilling God's call to serve one another. Through diverse collaborations and acts of kindness, rooted in love, we exemplify the true essence of humanity."