Introduction
The 2025 Religious Freedom Annual Review focused on the theme “Religion, Peace, and Human Flourishing: Understanding the Whys of Religious Freedom,” bringing together scholars, legal experts, religious leaders, and students to examine the role of religious liberty in fostering thriving societies. Opening sessions explored the connections between faith, civic engagement, and community well-being, emphasizing that religious freedom not only protects individual conscience but also strengthens societal resilience. Panelists highlighted research showing how faith communities contribute to social cohesion, mental health, and moral development, while also encouraging advocacy for religious liberty as an act of love and service toward others.
Several legal sessions analyzed current Supreme Court cases and state-level disputes regarding religious liberty, parental rights in education, and nondiscrimination policies. Discussions included the complexities surrounding religious charter schools, parental opt-out rights concerning curriculum with LGBTQ+ content, and the fine balance between maintaining religious freedom while ensuring respect and inclusion within diverse societies. These sessions emphasized that legal protections for religious freedom require careful navigation to uphold both individual rights and the broader public interest, with a recurring call for open dialogue and civility even amid deeply contested issues. Practical peacemaking sessions demonstrated the role of faith communities in countering polarization, fostering dialogue across differences, and promoting dignity-centered discourse in civic life. Interfaith leaders and nonprofit directors shared models of community revitalization, chaplaincy’s impact, and service initiatives that transcend religious boundaries to address societal challenges. Sessions on media representation underscored the importance of accurate, ethical storytelling in shaping public perceptions of religion, advocating for narratives that highlight the civic contributions of faith while avoiding stereotypes. Throughout the conference, the call to action encouraged participants to engage actively in protecting religious freedom, to partner across faith traditions, and to promote civil discourse within communities. The review underscored that advancing religious freedom and human dignity requires both structural protections and the personal commitment to build relationships, engage in meaningful service, and advocate for peaceful coexistence in a pluralistic society
Student Highlights
The Religious Freedom Annual Review provided a transformative environment to engage deeply with the principles of human dignity and religious liberty. The conference created opportunities to reflect on the critical role of the First Amendment in safeguarding rights and privileges, especially during times when these rights face significant challenges. The opening session set a clear tone of urgency and hope, highlighting the essential need to prioritize religious freedom as a pathway toward peace. Sessions emphasized that even in a diverse society, differences can strengthen communities when rooted in respect, encouraging thoughtful consideration of how the law and faith intersect to foster human flourishing. A significant aspect of the experience was the opportunity to interact with accomplished professionals, scholars, and faith leaders who model the diverse ways to advance religious freedom in their communities. Conversations with attorneys, nonprofit leaders, chaplains, and scholars illustrated how legal advocacy, pastoral care, academic research, and community engagement each contribute to protecting religious freedom and building inclusive societies. These interactions expanded the understanding that meaningful contributions can be made across various fields, including law, public administration, education, and interfaith dialogue, demonstrating that the protection of religious freedom requires collective action from multiple sectors. The conference also provided valuable mentorship and networking opportunities that helped clarify pathways toward graduate and professional education. Law students and alumni offered practical guidance on preparing for law school and careers in public service, while connections were made with scholars and practitioners involved in peacemaking initiatives, refugee advocacy, and interfaith collaboration.
Dates
June 17, 2025
Location
Provo, Utah
Participants
Karla Alonzo
Alessandra Dela Pena Angoluan
Ann Goebel
Eint Kye Sin
Britlyn Smith
Samantha Rasmussen
PDF Report