Policy
Religious Freedom
Respecting human dignity requires that we respect the core elements of how people and groups identify themselves, including their religious beliefs. Religious belief has been a powerful motivation for protecting the rights and liberties of others; it kindled movements to abolish slavery and protect Americans’ civil rights. For millions of Americans, religion is the source of the values required in a free society, such as understanding, respect and sacrifice for others. Additionally, religious institutions provide irreplaceable care for the most vulnerable people in society.
For all of these reasons, the right to exercise religion is a fundamental human right. The law should respect the independence of religious institutions, defend the right of conscience, and protect the right of individuals to act on their religious beliefs, while establishing reasonable protections for public health and safety in a spirit of fairness for all.
Policy
Religious Freedom
Respecting human dignity requires that we respect the core elements of how people and groups identify themselves, including their religious beliefs. Religious belief has been a powerful motivation for protecting the rights and liberties of others; it kindled movements to abolish slavery and protect Americans’ civil rights. For millions of Americans, religion is the source of the values required in a free society, such as understanding, respect and sacrifice for others. Additionally, religious institutions provide irreplaceable care for the most vulnerable people in society.
For all of these reasons, the right to exercise religion is a fundamental human right. The law should respect the independence of religious institutions, defend the right of conscience, and protect the right of individuals to act on their religious beliefs, while establishing reasonable protections for public health and safety in a spirit of fairness for all.
Insights & Takeaways
Takeaways3 things to know about Biden administration’s new guidance on prayer in school
The new guidance is not technically legally binding, but federal law requires schools to certify they are following the guidance. It serves as a suggestion to ensure proper adherence to the law.
InsightsPrayer in schools: Does federal guidance reflect Supreme Court rulings?
Updated letter from Department of Education stresses the ability of schools to limit employee prayer when they feel such prayer might be taken as an endorsement of religion.
InsightsCase shows how government interferes with religious groups’ homeless ministry
Department of Justice has sided with Micah's Way in its suit against the city of Santa Ana, California, for trying to shut down or limit its distribution of food and drink to homeless people.
TakeawaysChurch and family can help our youth strengthen mental health
There are multiple ways to strengthen the mental and emotional well-being of Utah’s families, and a broader view that includes two vital institutions of civil society – the family and faith-based organizations – shows real benefits for Utahns.
InsightsReligion and spirituality play helpful role in mental health
A rise in mental health challenges – particularly among youth – requires a significant investment in resources. Research shows religious practice is associated with increased emotional resilience.
Religious exemptions in abortion-related legislation can prevent distrust and confusion
Since the U.S. Supreme Court allowed states to regulate abortion in 2022, related state laws have become more numerous and prominent. This has raised concerns on both sides of the issue, including religious freedom concerns.
Supreme Court hears oral arguments on religious accommodations
The standard sought in this case is the same as the current rule for employers asked to accommodate pregnant or disabled employees.
1983 floods showed powerful force of religion, community
As Pastor Corey Hodges has noted, faith helps promote community. In 1983, local churches helped with massive relief efforts to keep floodwaters under some control and to minimize damage.
Religious schools need freedom to hire and retain staff that support organizational mission
Supporting the mission of an organization is one of the basic tests for employment with it. The principle should rightly extend to hiring decisions of religious schools.