... as a Citizen

Simply put, you should know your rights whether you practice a religion or not! Apathy or indifference to the freedoms we have will always lead to erosion of those freedoms. Our rights don't come free, they require constant vigilance. The First Amendment in the Bill of Rights begins by listing freedom of religion before speech and press. We should all carefully consider if the emphasis our founding fathers put on the free exercise of religion is outdated or just as needed today.

... as a Legislator

Lawmakers have a special privilege and responsibility to be aware and sensitive to the religious practices of others and the impact legislative language can have on such practices. This especially applies to minority religions, whose religious rights are so often ignored in the introduction of bills. Understanding is the key to drafting good language. Taking the time to understand the needs of others in the religious community will not only protect a particular religious practice, it really benefits us all.

... as a Churchgoer

If those who practice religion don't defend their freedom, who will_ Coalitions of religiously based organizations across the United States are working now to protect religious freedom at both the federal and state level. They are motivated by their devotion to their church. To them, these acts are vital to their own religious freedom, as well as to that of their neighbors.

... as a Doctor or Nurse

Most physicians, nurses, health care providers and hospital administrators today are aware of advance directives, refusal of blood transfusions, diet restrictions, and the refusal of medical treatment in general. Often religious practices underlie these individual decisions and approaches to health care. Whenever a religious practice conflicts with the convictions of those involved in the health-care profession, a RFRA law could make a vital difference in respecting those practices.

... as an Attorney or Judge

Ignorance of the law by those who practice law or make legal decisions can be devastating to a sense of justice and individual rights. The wording of a federal or state RFRA is specific and exact and intended to raise a clear and high standard for the freedom of religious practice. It deserves careful thought as to its meaning and application.