First Liberty



Throughout our nation's history, houses of worship and religious
leaders have played a direct role in political discourse in the United
States.

Prior to the 1950s, religious leaders advocated politically by using
their voices to help shape public opinion and engage in social reform.
They also used their churches to provide platforms for political
discussions and to facilitate voter registration and turnout.

Religious leaders played influential roles in the betterment of our
nation. They:

* Advocated for the abolition of slavery and vocally supported
candidates that shared their views.
* Played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement by advocating
for racial justice and equality.
* Encouraged people of faith to engage in political action to
address the issues of poverty, inequality and injustice.

But in 1954, all of that changed with the passage of the Johnson
Amendment.

The Johnson Amendment effectively ended the critical role churches
played in American politics.

Today, ministries and churches are under constant threat of
investigation by the IRS should they stray too far into the political
realm.

And should that happen, they could lose their non-profit status.

In the past, religious leaders would boldly stand and provide
direction. Now when faith is politically challenged, they remain
quiet.

Watch First Liberty's Jeremy Dys unpack the Johnson Amendment,
discuss its overarching impact on faith in America and explain why we
should consider repealing it:

[link removed]

Sermons on politics, government and controversial issues were common
during the founding era, and popular among pastors and churches on
various sides of the political spectrum.

Our nation's history and tradition are clear: faith leaders,
congregations and ministries were never meant to be silenced on
political matters. Under the First Amendment, they were always meant
to be able to express support or opposition for the people who seek to
lead.

For too long, the Johnson Amendment has fearfully ruled over faith.
It's time to restore the roles of churches and religious leaders
in the political discourse of our country to what our founders
intended.

It's time to restore free speech to our pulpits.

Grateful for you, 

Kelly

Kelly Shackelford, Esq.
President, CEO & Chief Counsel
First Liberty Institute



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