Washington, D.C. – The annual International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit, a gathering of over 90 religious freedom organizations from more than 30 faith traditions, is offering a special program for college students at its upcoming event. The summit, scheduled for February 3-5, 2025, in Washington, D.C., will include a University Partnership Program designed for graduate and undergraduate students passionate about religious freedom.
Organized by the Religious Freedom Institute (RFI), the program will begin with a day-long seminar on February 3rd, featuring training sessions, guided simulations, and discussions with leading scholars and government officials. Students will then participate fully in the IRF Summit on February 4th and 5th, providing opportunities to learn from and network with global leaders in the field.
Jim Bennett, director of RFI’s National Center for Religious Freedom Education and head of the University Partnership Program, emphasized the importance of engaging young adults in the fight for religious freedom. “Religious freedom is only safe when it is both protected in law and embraced by society,” Bennett stated. He added that empowering today’s youth with a deep understanding of religious freedom principles is crucial for shaping future laws and policies.
Bennett also highlighted the growing number of college students actively challenging anti-religious narratives on their campuses. He expressed excitement about working with these passionate young people who are committed to defending human dignity.
The program will utilize RFI’s “First Principles” curriculum, which explores the vital role of religious freedom in human identity, human rights, and human flourishing. Guided simulations, led by scholars and public officials, will allow students to engage with real-world scenarios in various global contexts.
The IRF Summit itself will feature speakers from RFI and IRF Summit leadership, as well as scholars, activists, and government officials from the U.S. and other countries.
Peter Burns, IRF Summit executive director, explained that the summit aims to increase the impact of the religious freedom movement in the policy arena. He noted the growing levels of religious restriction and persecution worldwide, emphasizing the importance of raising voices in solidarity with those who suffer for their beliefs.
The summit is sponsored by organizations including the Center for Religious Liberty at the Catholic University of America and Meta, along with various religious freedom advocacy groups.
Bennett hopes that students will gain a thorough understanding of the foundational principles of religious freedom and be equipped to address contemporary challenges to this fundamental right. Registration for the University Partnership Program is open until January 17, 2025.