FIRST LOOK

From Threats of Eviction to Crippling Fines, the Assault on Churches Continues in the Golden State

In California, opponents of freedom are seizing this crisis to shut down churches and to keep people of faith subdued as second-class citizens. A number of churches have been blistered with outrageous fines, while John MacArthur’s church has been threatened with eviction.

Marlee Tomlinson Contributing Writer • 5 min read

A WEAPON AGAINST PUBLIC HEALTH?

Opponents of Freedom Use COVID to Attack and Destroy the Religious Freedom Restoration Act

After months of repeated assaults, the agenda of secular opponents is clear: to keep churches closed indefinitely and stop people of faith from worshipping freely. Now, they’ve set their sights on dismantling one of the foremost federal protections of our First Freedom: the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

Jorge Gomez Senior Writer • 5 min read

THE ORIGINS OF “FREE EXERCISE”

Religious Freedom Before the First Amendment: The Catholics of Maryland

In this second article of our special series, we explore how the Catholics who founded the colony of Maryland became the first to enact a law referring to the “free exercise” of religion, the same language that James Madison would later use in drafting the First Amendment.

Andrew D. Graham Executive Director for Policy and Education & Senior Fellow • 5 min read

$100,000 CHALLENGE GRANT

Constitution Day & NTX Giving Day: Two Essential Reasons to Celebrate & Support Religious Liberty

2020’s “Double Anniversary” of Constitution Day and NTX Giving Day is the perfect opportunity to support First Liberty’s efforts to keep leading—and winning—the national fight to protect America’s first freedom. Plus, a newly-announced $100,000 Challenge Grant will double your gift’s financial impact.

Sydney Swift Contributing Writer • 1 min read + video