(ZENIT News / Washington, 01.21.2025).- A recent survey suggests that support for religious freedom is not only holding steady but growing. The 2024 Religious Freedom Index, published by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty on January 16, 2025, reveals a notable uptick in Americans’ endorsement of religious liberty across a variety of dimensions, with the overall score reaching an all-time high of 70 out of 100.
This sixth annual report, based on a survey of 1,000 adults, paints a picture of a nation grappling with complex issues yet reaffirming its commitment to the principles of pluralism, individual rights, and the role of faith in public and private life.
Pluralism: A Cornerstone of Freedom
The category with the strongest support in the survey was “Religious Pluralism,” which scored 86 points. This metric reflects the extent to which Americans believe in the right to live out one’s faith, even when it differs from mainstream practices. From coast to coast, respondents expressed overwhelming support for ensuring that diverse religious traditions are respected and protected.
“This year’s index sends a clear message: Americans value the right to live authentically according to their beliefs,” said Mark Rienzi, president and CEO of Becket. “Even in a time of stark divisions, there is unity in affirming the importance of faith as a cornerstone of our society.”
Public Expression and Protections for Believers
The survey also highlighted broad agreement on issues related to sharing faith and expressing it publicly. “Sharing Religion” received a score of 72, reflecting strong support for the right to discuss and share religious beliefs. Meanwhile, “Religion in Action” scored 70, signaling that most Americans believe faith should have a place in public life, from business to healthcare.
In the workplace, for example, 82% of respondents supported employees’ rights to religious expression, such as wearing faith-specific clothing or observing religious holidays. Additionally, 63% affirmed that religious practices should be accommodated even when they may inconvenience others.
Hot-Button Issues: Education, Healthcare, and Parental Rights
The survey delved into controversial topics, such as parental rights in education and religious objections in healthcare, revealing significant support for faith-based perspectives.
– Education: An overwhelming 77% of respondents supported parents’ rights to exempt their children from public school curricula on gender identity and sexuality if it conflicts with their religious beliefs.
– Healthcare: About 70% opposed forcing religious employers to cover abortion procedures against their convictions. Similarly, 70% believed that healthcare workers with religious objections to abortion should not be compelled to participate in such procedures.
Church and State: A Delicate Balance
While Americans broadly support religious freedom, some categories showed more nuanced views. The “Religion and Politics” category scored 68, indicating a general but cautious endorsement of religious influence in lawmaking. The “Church and State” category scored lowest at 58, reflecting a mixed sentiment about the intersection of government and religion.
One contentious case cited in the survey was Massachusetts’ denial of a foster care application from a Catholic couple due to their adherence to Catholic teachings on marriage and gender. Two-thirds of respondents believed the state was wrong in its decision, underscoring the tension between religious convictions and state policies.
The survey found Americans divided on the broader role of religion in society. While 56% see faith as part of the solution to societal challenges, 44% view it as contributing to the problems. Despite this divide, there remains widespread agreement on the value of protecting religious freedom for all.
Released on National Religious Freedom Day, the index serves as both a barometer and a beacon. Rienzi emphasized its relevance: “The results should encourage us as a nation to continue fostering an environment where faith can flourish. Religious freedom isn’t just a constitutional right—it’s a foundation for unity in our diversity.”
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