Beyond Tolerance: Why Religious Liberty Matters to Everyone

We’ve all heard the arguments: tolerance, acceptance, live and let live. But what happens when the “live and let live” mentality erodes the bedrock of our freedoms? What happens when the right to believe – or *not* believe – is under attack?

Stephen Collis, equity partner at Holland and Heart, tackles this crucial question in his new book, Deep Conviction. He understands that religious liberty isn't a fringe issue for a specific group; it's the cornerstone of a free society. As he explains in a recent podcast interview, framing the discussion around dry legal explanations simply doesn't resonate. Instead, he chose a different approach – storytelling. Inspired by authors like Laura Hillenbrand, Collis weaves together narratives from pivotal moments in American history, from an 1813 Catholic priest to a 2017 Colorado baker, demonstrating how religious freedom protects *everyone*.

The stories aren't just compelling; they’re illuminating. They highlight the misconception that religious freedom is simply a “code word” for discrimination. Collis clarifies that it's about safeguarding the ability to hold and express beliefs, regardless of whether those beliefs are popular or convenient.

This isn't just a legal issue; it's a foundational one. Throughout human history, the suppression of religious belief has consistently led to suffering and oppression. Protecting religious liberty isn’t about endorsing any particular faith; it's about preserving the space for individuals to pursue truth, conscience, and a meaningful life.

It's a conversation worth having – and Collis makes it accessible and engaging. He emphasizes that understanding religious freedom requires more than just legal jargon; it requires empathy and a willingness to consider perspectives different from our own. As he puts it, “We don’t have to look very far to see what happens when those freedoms go away.”

If you’re looking for a compelling read that will challenge your assumptions and deepen your understanding of a vital principle, Deep Conviction is a great place to start.

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Don't passively accept the erosion of our freedoms. Take action. Learn. Connect. Defend.