BJC - Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty

“This attack did not occur in a vacuum, but in the context of a society besieged by increasing anti-Muslim rhetoric and fearmongering.” Read our full statement.

Yesterday, thousands gathered on the National Mall for an event organized by the White House to "rededicate" America as one nation under God. Government officials participated. Choirs from Liberty University and Hillsdale College performed. And the crowd was asked to solemnly commit this country to a specific vision of Christianity.

BJC Executive Director Amanda Tyler wrote about why this is a problem — not just for non-Christians, but for everyone. When government claims the mantle of God, it makes disagreement tantamount to blasphemy. That is not religious freedom. That is its opposite.

Read her op-ed in Baptist News Global: https://baptistnews.com/article/when-government-claims-god/

Let’s continue our journey through religious liberty! 🗺️

These are just a few of the advocates who have championed for all throughout history. Join the movement at bjconthehill.com.

Our Executive Director Amanda Tyler testified at an anti-Muslim Congressional hearing today to support our Muslim brothers and sisters. Because "soul liberty is not a privilege extended to government approved religions. It is the birthright of every person."

Was the United States founded as a "Christian nation"?

We keep seeing the myth repeated – including by our government leaders. But, it’s not in the founding documents.

Last week, we re-released a podcast episode from 2019 addressing this exact question. Historians Bill Leonard and Steven Green share important context that will empower you in future conversations.

Listen to Respecting Religion on your favorite podcasting platform, or play it on our website: https://bjconline.org/best-of-were-we-founded-as-a-christian-nation/

As our Spring 2026 interns conclude their time with BJC, we’re reminded that the work of faith freedom is carried forward by thoughtful, courageous leaders.

Aaron Huang, Michelle Ruiz-Garcia, and Seth Aboagye have contributed to that work in tangible ways—from engaging policymakers on Capitol Hill to strengthening our shared efforts behind the scenes.

-Aaron (Yemu) Huang is a junior at Calvin University studying Philosophy and Mathematics, with a minor in Data Science. Originally from Wenzhou, China, he brings a passion for teaching shaped by his experience leading youth programs and plans to pursue graduate study in philosophy.

-Michelle Ruiz-Garcia, a junior at Nebraska Wesleyan University, studies Political Science and History with a minor in Spanish. With experience in political campaigns and a strong commitment to mentorship, she brings both practical insight and a deep investment in community.

-Seth Aboagye, a recent graduate of Washington University in St. Louis with a master’s in Quantitative Finance, brings a global perspective shaped by his Ghanaian roots. His work centers on the intersection of public policy, finance, and social justice, with a focus on accountability and equity.

We’re grateful for their time with us, and hopeful for the ways they’ll continue to shape religious freedom for ALL!

The right to vote is foundational to democracy — and to religious freedom. BJC stands with all people of faith and none in defense of full civic participation.

The administration's Anti-Christian Bias Report advances religious privilege—not religious freedom for all. Statement from BJC Executive Director Amanda Tyler: https://bjconline.org/bjc-responds-to-anti-christian-bias-report/