Welcome to In Our Hands: International Religious Freedom, an online video and resource manual about international religious freedom. Religious freedom is a core value of American democracy. It is protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, which reads: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” Since 1998, the promotion of religious freedom has also been an official part of United States foreign policy. In the 15-minute online video and resource manual, you will also learn about the history of international human rights since WWII, U.S. foreign policy, and the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act. All of these are presented in the context of the United States Constitution. The video features seasoned experts and high-school students. You will take part in a wide-reaching, yet critical discussion that is a thoughtful examination of the problem and possible solutions and/or approaches to it.

The video and manual can be used as a classroom resource at any time during the school year. These materials offer teachers and students insight into the American ideal of religious freedom and open the door for students to contemplate and grapple with their role in fostering this human right at home and abroad.

To view the full video or individual sections online, click the links on the left side of the page to show the selected video.

Part 1: A Fundamental Issue
Part 2: Why the U.S. Monitors Religious Freedom
Part 3: When Must the U.S. Speak Up?
Part 4: How Religious Freedom Affects Individuals
Part 5: Making the Policy Work
Part 6: Stewards of the Future

Click here for Resource Manual PDF instructions below:

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