On January 16, 1786, the Commonwealth of Virginia enacted the Statute for Religious Freedom, a significant milestone in safeguarding individuals' rights to express their religious opinions without affecting their civil capacities. Drafted by Thomas Jefferson, the statute aimed not only to protect religious freedom in Virginia but also to inspire similar protections worldwide. This vision is reflected today in various legal frameworks, including the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and international agreements like Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The United States has maintained its commitment to religious freedom globally. Over recent years, efforts have been made to secure this right universally. These include documenting religious conditions worldwide and designating certain countries as concerning; recognizing acts against Rohingya by Burmese military members as genocide; expanding the International Freedom of Religion or Belief Alliance; protecting human rights defenders persecuted for their beliefs; releasing national strategies to combat anti-Semitism and Islamophobia; prosecuting hate crimes against religious minorities; and safeguarding places of worship.
Additionally, U.S. diplomatic efforts have focused on advancing religious freedom through organizations such as the UN and alliances with partner countries. These initiatives contributed to freeing prisoners of conscience in various nations including Nicaragua, China, Nigeria, Iran, Somalia, Vietnam, among others. The U.S. continues to seek justice for victims and accountability for violators of religious freedoms.
On National Religious Freedom Day and every day, the United States reaffirms its long-standing dedication to upholding freedom of religion or belief both domestically and internationally.
