2024 Religious Freedom Annual Review

Introduction

This year's Religious Freedom Annual Review focused on "Becoming Peacemakers through Supporting Religious Freedom and Pluralism," highlighting the role of pluralism in fostering peace across government, religion, and society. Key discussions included a panel moderated by Bob Roberts Jr. on practical peacemaking, as well as a presentation from Southern Virginia University on civility and peacebuilding inspired by President Russell M. Nelson. The conference also marked the 30th anniversary of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), explored legal developments in religious autonomy, and featured sessions from organizations like "Braver Angels" on reducing polarization and promoting religious pluralism in the workplace. The event underscored dialogue, empathy, and inclusivity as essential for a more peaceful society.

Student Reflections

John Andrew Quizana

As a freshman at BYU–Hawaii, I was honored to attend this year's Religious Freedom Annual Review, which focused on peacemaking. The conference allowed me to share insights, engage in meaningful discussions, and collaborate with inspiring law students, gaining valuable academic and career insights.

Imam Mohamad Arafat’s opening prayer and admiration for BYU's commitment to religious freedom was a highlight. I also had a productive conversation with Gordon Larsen, who discussed the National Governors Association's use of social media and encouraged me to explore a project on campaign commercials, which I plan to pursue this summer.

This experience deepened my understanding of politics and religion, motivating me to engage in future projects on these critical issues.

Johann Faana-Kong

Attending the Religious Freedom Annual Review was a transformative experience that reshaped my understanding of religious freedom. What once seemed like a theoretical concept became deeply connected to themes of dignity, human rights, and equality. The Dignity Index session, where a speaker shared her family’s journey from polarization to harmony, was particularly impactful.

The Braver Angels session demonstrated how open dialogue can bridge divides, with Tami Pyfer and Casey Jorgenson showcasing LAPP skills to turn heated discussions into constructive conversations. They would be excellent speakers for future events at BYU–Hawaii.

Although the one-day format limited deeper connections, I was able to engage with inspiring individuals like Bill Benac, whose dual MBA and JD degrees sparked my interest in law school. Networking with law students, especially my new friend Dallin, also deepened my interest in law and public policy.

A serendipitous meeting with Kyler Mecham at the church office introduced me to potential internship opportunities in international affairs, a field I’m eager to explore. This connection was particularly meaningful, as I’ve been seeking entry into church-related international work.

Overall, this conference expanded my horizons, reaffirming the value of networking with both delegates and fellow students, who will become the leaders of tomorrow. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore new academic and career paths as I move toward graduation.

Rina Hirano

Attending the Religious Freedom Annual Review Conference was an honor and a valuable learning experience. As a marketing major with no background in law or politics, writing a case brief was a challenge, but it pushed me to improve. I was also nervous about my English skills and visiting the mainland for the first time as the first in my family to do so.

In Provo, I met law students who were initially intimidating but proved to be kind and inspiring, motivating me to work harder. The approachable and polite speakers, like Gordon Larsen, shared valuable insights, particularly on the "Disagree Better" project. I also enjoyed a memorable conversation with Sister Bonnie H. Cordon and got autographs and photos with Camille N. Johnson and other delegates.

This conference expanded my understanding of religious freedom and provided meaningful networking opportunities that will influence my academic and career path.

Timothy Samad

Attending the Religious Freedom Annual Review at BYU Provo was an incredible experience. The conference, featuring religious leaders from diverse backgrounds, ran smoothly thanks to the efforts of the BYU–Hawaii team. As an airport presenter, I learned the importance of professionalism in setting a positive tone for the event. A highlight was having dinner with Imam Mohamad Bashar Arafat, who became a good friend.

I attended impactful sessions, including one on interfaith collaboration in higher education by President Bonnie H. Cordon and another on religious pluralism in businesses. These discussions emphasized the importance of integrating religious dialogue into both educational and corporate environments.

Key Takeaways:

1. The rising generation is becoming less engaged with religion, making it crucial to help young people appreciate diverse beliefs.
2. The power of “and” – embracing collaboration between different beliefs instead of choosing one over the other.
3. Higher education and interfaith organizations need to collaborate to create frameworks that foster religious pluralism.

The trip also included a visit to the Church Welfare and General Conference buildings in Salt Lake City, fulfilling a long-time dream. Hearing a Tabernacle Choir organist play was an unforgettable experience.

Throughout the conference, I had the opportunity to network with speakers and guests, gaining valuable insights for future opportunities. Reflecting on this experience, I am confident that BYU–Hawaii could successfully host a similar religious freedom conference.

Vilai ‘Ilolahia

The Religious Freedom Annual Review conference deeply shifted my understanding of pluralism, emphasizing the importance of interfaith relationships over mere tolerance. Micah Fries, an evangelical pastor, shared a powerful story about a Muslim Imam whose mosque was burned down by a white supremacist. Despite the tragedy, a local pastor immediately offered his church for the Imam to worship in. Micah’s takeaway was that “there should be less emphasis on advocacy and more on friendships,” inspiring me to focus on promoting religious pluralism at the community level.

I also had the privilege of hearing Kevin C. Brown’s response to a question I asked about teaching younger generations the importance of pluralism. He said, “We do not convert to preach, but we preach because we are converted,” which resonated with me. During my volunteer role assisting with airport runs, I met Mrs. Jean Darlae Yim, whose curiosity about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints allowed me to share my testimony and faith, offering a unique perspective on religious dialogue.

The conference, made even more memorable through friendships with BYU Provo students, reinforced the idea that we should move beyond religious tolerance and toward religious pluralism, where relationships are based on mutual support, not transactional benefits. Kevin C. Brown emphasized that relationships should focus on genuine connection, not what we gain from others. This perspective is crucial in a world that often prioritizes advocacy over understanding. True pluralism involves recognizing and honoring the dignity of others, aiming for a more unified world built on mutual respect and shared human values.

Pimwara Hootini

Participating in the Religious Freedom Annual Review was a privilege, offering a chance to learn alongside like-minded individuals. Before the conference, I had many questions about religious freedom, its legal connections, and balancing law school with my personal aspirations. The sessions and interactions I had helped answer those questions and confirmed my decision to pursue law school after graduation.

Two days before the conference, I helped with airport pickups and had a conversation with Imam Arafat, which led to a meaningful connection. I learned that a blind Muslim US diplomat I had helped in Washington, DC, was a close friend of his.

I also spoke with Dave Gibbons, author of The Shape of My Eyes, about race, faith, and identity. This led to a fascinating conversation about teaching Thai people about Jesus Christ, as he knew a Thai musician who was a family friend.

Meeting professionals in religious freedom and human dignity, such as Josh McDaniel and Blaine H. Evanson, expanded my understanding of the legal aspects of religious freedom. Professor McDaniel, a Harvard Law professor, and fellow church member, provided invaluable advice for law school and mentorship that inspired me to work harder toward my goal of attending law school.

The conference also offered networking opportunities that led to mentorships with law students Elena Balkova and Dallin Everton. Elena, originally from Russia, shared tips on succeeding in law school as an international student, while Dallin gave me a tour of the BYU campus and offered to guide me through the law school application process. Their support has been crucial to my academic journey.

Highlights

The Annual Review conference centered on the theme of becoming peacemakers, with a focus on the role of pluralism in uniting people through differences. Brett Scharffs, Director of the International Center for Law and Religion Studies, underscored the mission to secure global religious freedom and promote peace. BYU President Shane Reese emphasized the importance of dialogue over monologue, reinforcing that religious freedom is a universal human good that benefits believers and non-believers alike.

Professor Ryan P. Burge explored the intersection of religion and politics in the United States, cautioning that political polarization threatens religious freedom. He encouraged fostering inclusivity through cooperation, common goals, and equal interfaith participation while addressing challenges posed by laws like the Equality Act.

A session on practical peacemaking featured leaders Jonathan Ammons, Kevin C. Brown, and Micah Fries, who shared personal stories and experiences in building relationships across faiths. Key insights included the importance of humility, genuine friendships, and treating peacemaking as a lifelong commitment rather than a transaction.

Southern Virginia University leaders highlighted their efforts to integrate principles of peacemaking and mutual respect into education and athletics. President Cordon inspired students to lead with civility, quoting President Russell M. Nelson's counsel that today’s generation is capable of unprecedented impact in fostering peace.

Legal discussions on church autonomy and religious freedom addressed ongoing tensions between government regulations and the protection of religious practices. Examples, such as the Apache Stronghold case, illustrated the balance required to uphold religious freedom while ensuring societal well-being.

Finally, initiatives like the Dignity Index and the National Governors’ Association’s Disagree Better campaign emphasized the importance of replacing contempt with dignity. By promoting respectful dialogue and fostering understanding, these efforts aim to bridge divides and encourage peaceful, constructive engagement across communities.

For more insights, visit the PDF below.