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

Attending the Religious Freedom Annual Review was a transformative experience for many of us. As John Andrew Quizana, a freshman at BYU–Hawaii, reflected, “The conference allowed me to share insights, engage in meaningful discussions, and collaborate with inspiring law students, gaining valuable academic and career insights.” He highlighted Imam Mohamad Arafat’s opening prayer and BYU’s commitment to religious freedom, and said a conversation with Gordon Larsen about the National Governors Association and campaign commercials has inspired a summer project. For Rina Hirano, a marketing major attending her first event on the mainland, the conference was equally meaningful: “Writing a case brief was a challenge, but it pushed me to improve,” she said. “Meeting law students who were kind and inspiring motivated me to work harder.” She especially appreciated the insights from Gordon Larsen on the "Disagree Better" project, and described memorable moments with Sister Bonnie H. Cordon and Camille N. Johnson.

Other students echoed this sense of growth. Johann Faana-Kong shared, “What once seemed like a theoretical concept became deeply connected to themes of dignity, human rights, and equality.” He found the Dignity Index and Braver Angels sessions especially powerful, and said meeting delegates like Bill Benac and Kyler Mecham helped spark an interest in law and international affairs. Timothy Samad, who served as an airport presenter, noted, “I learned the importance of professionalism in setting a positive tone for the event.” He also enjoyed dinner with Imam Arafat and sessions on interfaith collaboration and religious pluralism in business. For Vilai ‘Ilolahia, a story shared by Pastor Micah Fries left a lasting impression: “There should be less emphasis on advocacy and more on friendships.” She also quoted Kevin C. Brown: “We do not convert to preach, but we preach because we are converted,” which helped shape her view of religious pluralism. Finally, Pimwara Hootini shared that conversations with figures like Imam Arafat, Dave Gibbons, and Harvard Law’s Josh McDaniel confirmed her desire to pursue law. “Meeting professionals and mentors like Elena Balkova and Dallin Everton helped me see a clearer path toward law school,” she said. Across all of our experiences, the conference broadened our understanding, inspired new goals, and reminded us of the power of connection in the pursuit of religious freedom.