Topic Index

BLOG

Does Religious Freedom Have a Place in the Death Chamber?

Watching a condemned person die by hanging was once a public spectacle. Today, that is not the case—there is no entrance fee, and witnesses are not allowed to throw vegetables or cheer. But most often the witnesses are hostile to the person. After all, this is the ultimate punishment, and the condemned will finally pay for their crimes with their lives. The families of victims will finally have their revenge, or simple closure of that which began with harm done to their loved one.

BLOG

Interfaith Courage Awarded at Second Ministerial for Religious Freedom

More than 30 years ago, Ivanir dos Santos began combating racial discrimination and promoting rights of members of minority groups; he has never faltered in that mission. Today a priest of the much-discriminated-against Candomblé religion, Mr. dos Santos’ most visible achievement is the “Walk in Defense of Religious Freedom” in Rio de Janeiro. The walk has become “an annual event that draws some 50,000 participants from diverse religious backgrounds, including Candomblé, Muslims, Jews, Christians, Buddhists, Spiritualists, and atheists.”

BLOG

Rashad Hussain: The Right Person at the Right Time for International Religious Freedom

If confirmed by the Senate, Hussain would arguably be the most qualified person ever to hold the Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom post.

NEWS

Celebrating International Religious Freedom Day

The Religious Freedom Act—the passage of which we celebrate today—established the office of the United States Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom and highlighted America’s responsibility to the world in guaranteeing Human Right #18, Freedom of Thought and Belief .

NEWS

STAND’s Thanksgiving Prayer

STAND wishes to take the opportunity of Thanksgiving to say a prayer of thanks—thanks to members, friends, supporters, fellow faith groups and all people working to bring others together; to help their fellow man; to show that we are more alike than different; to make religious freedom a reality; to be true to their beliefs; and to be a force for unity, integrity and love.

NEWS

U.S. Attorney General Announces New Task Force to Protect Religious Freedom

On Monday July 30th at the Department of Justice’s Religious Liberty Summit, U.S. Attorney Jeff Sessions announced the formation of a new Religious Liberty Task Force to defend the rights of citizens to freely practice their chosen faiths.