The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution says that everyone in the United States has the right to practice his or her own religion, or no religion at all. We are living at a time now where this principle is facing its greatest threat.
In recent years, the right to religious freedoms has increasingly been exploited and misused in order to favor the interests of some while ignoring the basic rights of Americans in the minority.
The principle of religious freedom should extend to all people. We all deserve our right to be protected under the First Amendment.
Here are a few ways we can protect religious freedom.
1. Study up on the issues
Read responsible websites and blogs, as well as newspaper articles from a variety of perspectives that explore things happening in the world.
2. Speak up with courage
Don’t be silent. Don’t be intimidated by the hate and intolerance of others around you. Speak up and state your views and beliefs on important topics. Be kind and accepting of others.
3. Enlarge your voice through social media
Share relevant links, stories, articles, photos and personal experiences. Use your social media platform in a persuasive and civil way to promote healthy conversations about real change that needs to take place.
4. Get to know people of other beliefs
Share your points of concern. Talk with them about things that matter, things that need to be changed or kept the same. Participate in an interfaith service project, meal or panel. Support their religious freedom.
5. Stay involved in the political process.
Vote in your local elections. Give your support to the candidates who understand the role that religion can play in society. Support candidates who want to protect religious freedoms for everybody.
Religious freedoms are something that should not be overlooked and ignored in this country. There are ways we as citizens can continue to make a difference and have those freedoms be felt by everyone.
To find out more about this topic and ways to get involved visit this website.
