WASHINGTON, D.C.—In a move to reinforce religious freedoms, President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday establishing a Religious Liberty Commission. The announcement was made during a National Day of Prayer event held in the White House Rose Garden.
The newly formed commission comprises clergy, legal experts, and key allies, including Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick as chair and Dr. Ben Carson as vice chair. Other members include Ethics and Public Policy Center President Ryan Anderson, Bishop Robert Barron, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Pastor Franklin Graham, Pastor Paula White, attorney Allyson Ho, and Rabbi Meier Soloveichik.
According to a White House summary, the commission will concentrate on six specific areas: parental rights in education, conscience protections, attacks on houses of worship, free speech, school choice, and institutional autonomy. The commission’s role is to advise the White House Faith Office and the Domestic Policy Council on executive or legislative actions and religious liberty policies.
This initiative aligns with President Trump’s ongoing commitment to protect Americans from threats to religious liberty. Earlier in his administration, he signed an executive order establishing a “Task Force to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias,” highlighting concerns over the treatment of peaceful pro-life Christians and alleged anti-Christian actions by the previous administration.
The executive order emphasizes the administration’s stance against anti-Christian weaponization of government and unlawful conduct targeting Christians. It asserts the law’s role in protecting Americans’ freedom to practice their faith peacefully and outlines the administration’s commitment to enforcing these protections.
The establishment of the Religious Liberty Commission reflects a broader effort to ensure that religious freedoms are upheld across various sectors, including education and public policy. By focusing on specific areas where religious liberties may be at risk, the commission aims to provide comprehensive recommendations to safeguard these fundamental rights.
This development is seen as a significant step toward reinforcing the nation’s commitment to religious freedom, ensuring that individuals and organizations can practice their faith without undue interference or discrimination.
