Freedom of Religion

Religious freedom is a principle that supports individual or public freedom, publicly or privately, to express religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance. It includes a person's right to change his religion or belief "the right not to have any religion or religion or to" practice non-religion”

Religious freedom is considered by many people and nations as a fundamental human right in a religious state, religious freedom is generally considered to mean that the government allows religious practices of other denominations outside of the state religion, and persecutes believers in other religions (or those without faith). Freedom of belief is different. It allows the right to believe what a person, group, or religion desires, but does not really grant the right to practice a religion or belief openly and externally in a public manner, a fundamental element of religious freedom

Article 9 of Human Acts Rights protects your right to freedom of thought, belief, and religion:

It includes the right to change your religion or beliefs at any time. You also have the right to put your thoughts and beliefs into action. This may include the right to wear a religious dress, the right to express one's beliefs or to participate in religious ceremonies. Government officials have not been able to stop you from practicing your religion, without good reason

1. Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief, in worship, teaching, practice and observance.

2. Freedom to manifest one’s religion or beliefs shall be subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society in the interests of public safety, for the protection of public order, health or morals, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.

Why We Need Religious Freedom

Religious freedom, or freedom of conscience, is essential to the life of a diverse society. It allows a variety of beliefs and superstitions to flourish. Religious freedom protects the rights of all groups and individuals, including the most vulnerable, whether religious or not.

Why Religious Freedom Is Important for Latter-day Saints

Because of their teachings and history, Latter-day Saints have a special responsibility to religious freedom. For nearly 200 years Latter-day Saints have taught the importance of religious freedom for all: ‘We claim the right to worship Almighty God in accordance with our conscience, and we allow all people to have the same right, to allow themselves to worship, and to allow all people to worship in the same way, and we allow all people to worship God. Where, whatever they may do.’

 

 

How Religion Is Important in Society

Religion plays a vital role in society. To be effective, religious organizations and individuals need physical, social, and legal support in order to advance their religion. All legal voices should be heard in public. Religious or secular expression should not be banned. Religion is more than just a religious movement; involves public speaking on social and moral issues.

What Religious Freedom Requires Us?

Religious freedom is a profession just as much a privilege. Religious freedom and morality are mutually exclusive and form a bond based on the natural dignity of each individual. Religious organizations and individuals have a responsibility to make their views known in a logical and respectful manner.