First amendment Quote by Dallin H. Oaks
““We should be alert to oppose the potential significance of the fact that some government officials and public policy advocates are describing the First Amendment guarantee of the “free exercise” of religion as merely “freedom of worship.” But the guarantee of “free exercise” protects the right to come out of our private settings, including churches, synagogues and mosques, to act upon our beliefs, subject only to the legitimate government powers necessary to protect public health, safety and welfare. Free exercise surely protects religious citizens in acting upon their beliefs in public policy debates and in votes cast as citizens or as lawmakers. . . . We must affirm our religious faiths, unite to insist upon our constitutional right to the free exercise of our religions and honor their vital roles in establishing and preserving and prospering this nation. . . . We are the “salt of the earth.” We must retain our savour by living our religion and by asserting ourselves as witnesses of God. [BYU-I Devotional, Feb. 25, 2014]””
About This Quote
Source Speech: BYU‑I Devotional, February 25, 2014
The quote urges vigilance in defending the full scope of the First Amendment’s free‑exercise clause, emphasizing that religious liberty includes public expression and participation in civic life, not just private worship.
In simple terms: Defend full religious freedom, both private and public.
Key Takeaway
Protect and practice faith openly.
Themes
religious liberty
civic duty
constitutional rights
public discourse
Mood
determined
hopeful
assertive
Type
call to action
political
When to use this quote
- political activism
- community organizing
- faith‑based advocacy
- public speaking
Key Concepts
free exercise
church‑state interaction
civic engagement
Questions to Reflect On
- How can believers influence policy without infringing others’ rights?
- What limits, if any, should government place on religious actions?
A Different Perspective
Balancing religious expression with public health and safety can be contentious.
