Religious freedom is a basic human right that gives our lives dignity and meaning and enables all of us to think, act upon, and express what we deeply believe. It's recognized in constitutions and declarations the world over. Religious freedom is our birthright as human beings. It's the architecture that allows diverse faiths and beliefs, yours and mine, to coexist. In other words, it's the right to live our moral convictions freely, in public, and with room to flourish. Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints appreciate the significance of religious freedom. Early pioneers moved across America’s plains, enduring many hardships to find a place to worship freely. Joseph Smith, the founding President of the Church, regarded religious freedom with such conviction that he made the belief an integral part of tradition and scripture. One of the Church’s Articles of Faith reads, “We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may." Members of the Church aren’t the only ones. In early American history, the Pilgrims recognized this God-given right and sailed across the ocean, leaving their homeland behind to attain it. Throughout history, people around the world have done the same. This holds true today. Religious freedom allows us to worship how we choose and gives all people the right to think what they want, say freely and publicly what they think, and to openly live their lives and their beliefs while allowing others to do the same. Religious freedom richly benefits society, too. Listen to this: Research shows that when protection for religious freedom is up, tensions and strife go down. So when religious liberty and conscience is protected, societies are more likely to enjoy greater benefits of health and prosperity, harmony, and stability. And what's more, its citizens are more civically minded, more generous, and more neighborly. OK, we've established that freedom of religion is a fundamental human right. But that doesn't mean it will always be honored. Did you know that its foundation is being subtly and steadily chipped away—that social and legal shifts are squeezing this liberty in a number of ways? For instance, people have been dismissed from educational programs. Religious groups have been nudged from the public square. The ability of religious organizations to manage their employment and property has been challenged, all because they follow their consciences. So what can be done to preserve this fundamental freedom? First, people must work together to maintain its structural integrity, whether religious or not. They should also be fortifying each other's freedoms by weighing in on the discussion with their own views in reasonable and meaningful dialogue. Church leader Elder Quentin L. Cook adds this: "It is important to become well educated on this issue, to take responsibility to pass on to future generations the religious freedom you now enjoy. Defend religious freedom on the internet and in your personal interactions in the neighborhoods and communities where you live."

Likewise, as we engage in public discourse, we should remember the repeated encouragement by Church leaders to act with civility, tolerance, and respect. If you want your religious beliefs to be protected, you need to defend the beliefs of your neighbor, even if they don't mesh with your own. Religious freedom's umbrella of protection covers everyone, especially those most vulnerable in society. All deserve their place in the public square. No one should be mocked, mistreated, or silenced for following their moral conscience. That goes for religious institutions as well. Remember, a society is only just and free as long as religious freedom is sustained, nurtured, and protected through the vigilant efforts of communities, groups, and individuals like you.