Religious Freedom Under Attack: America Must Lead

In today’s world, many people around the globe are being hurt, jailed, or even killed just because of their faith. In countries like China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, people are punished for worshiping God or simply believing in something higher than their government. Churches are shut down, pastors are imprisoned, and believers are forced to hide. In places like Nigeria and India, whole communities are being attacked for their religion. These are not just stories from far-off lands. These are real people facing real danger, and the United States must not ignore them.

Religious freedom is not just a nice idea. It is a God-given right and a foundation of our own country. The Founding Fathers knew this when they wrote the First Amendment. America was built on the belief that every person has the right to worship freely. That right is not only for Americans. It is for all people, everywhere.

When President Trump first took office, he made religious freedom a top priority in foreign policy. He created the International Freedom of Religion or Belief Alliance and held powerful gatherings with leaders from around the world to defend this basic right. He stood up to evil regimes and helped free pastors from jail. His leadership sent a clear message: America will stand with the faithful.

Now, in his second term, President Trump is once again putting religious freedom at the center of our foreign policy. Vice President JD Vance recently reminded us of this at the International Religious Freedom Summit. He spoke boldly about how important this fight is and promised that the new administration would do even more than before. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a longtime defender of human rights, has also taken up the cause with vigor.

But more must be done. Other countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Czech Republic are stepping up. They are hosting events, passing new policies, and naming special leaders to defend religious rights. While this is encouraging, the world still looks to the United States to lead the way. We have the power, the resources, and—most importantly—the moral responsibility to act.

Right now, the United States is missing a key player in this fight. President Trump nominated Congressman Mark Walker to serve as ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom. Walker, a former pastor and congressman from North Carolina, understands both the spiritual and political sides of this issue. He has the heart and the experience to take on this role. Yet, the Senate has not yet confirmed him.

This job cannot wait. The ambassador would work closely with allies, help free prisoners of faith, and push back against dangerous regimes. Without someone in this position, the U.S. cannot fully lead. The Senate must act now and confirm Mark Walker. Every day they wait is another day people suffer.

Religious freedom is not just about faith. It is about peace, security, and justice. Countries that protect religious rights are more stable and more prosperous. They are better partners in trade and defense. When the U.S. supports religious freedom, we make the world safer for everyone.

America has always been a shining light of hope. We must not let that light grow dim. Our faith is under attack around the world, and we cannot sit quietly. As President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Secretary Rubio have shown, we have the leadership. Now we must have the courage to act.

Let us return to the values that made this nation great—faith, freedom, and moral clarity. Let us stand with the persecuted and speak boldly for truth. The world is watching. It is time to lead again.