by Adriyanna R. AndrĂšus
This yearâs Summit for Religious Freedom (SRF), hosted by Americans United, reminded me that people are hungry not just for information, but for connection, clarity, and community. At a time when attacks on church-state separation and inclusive religious freedom are escalating across the country, SRF 2026 created space for people of all religions and none to come together around a shared commitment to freedom, dignity, and democracy.
What made this year especially powerful was the breadth of voices in the room â advocates, educators, faith leaders, students, organizers, legal experts, storytellers, and first-time attendees all bringing their own lived experiences and urgency into the conversation. Across plenaries, breakout sessions, the Organizing Institute, and Hill Day, attendees explored not only the threats posed by Christian nationalism and religious extremism, but also the collective power we have to resist them together.
Our 2026 theme, Foundation to Freedom, centered on the idea that freedom is not domination, exclusion, or control â it is the ability for all people to live, learn, believe, and participate fully in public life without fear. That spirit carried through every part of the Summit.
As someone who helps lead this work, one of the most meaningful parts of SRF is witnessing what happens when people realize they are not alone in this fight. New relationships are formed. Strategies are shared. People leave more informed, more connected, and more prepared to defend the values that make pluralistic democracy possible.
SRF has never just been about a single weekend. Itâs about building a stronger, broader movement for freedom without favor and equality without exception. And this year, that movement felt more urgent â and more hopeful â than ever.
SRF 2027 will take place May 1-3 at the same venue as this year: the Westin Alexandria Old Town, just steps from historic Old Town Alexandria and minutes from Washington, D.C.
Pin the dates and stay tuned for more information in the months ahead.
Adriyanna R. AndrĂšus is Americanâs United Conference & Partnerships Manager.
Photo Credit: Chris Line.
