Alliance Defending Freedom An ECOSOC-Accredited Non-Governmental Organization
Alliance Defending Freedom is an American conservative Christian legal advocacy group that works to expand religious freedom in the United States by advocating for broad exemptions based on religious belief. Alliance Defending Freedom is a member of the State Policy Network (SPN), a U.S. national network of free-market think tanks that push conservative and libertarian ideas through state-based think tanks. The organization has dramatically expanded its reach and influence through a network of affiliated lawyers and the work of its allied legal organizations, the Center for Christian Statesmanship, the European Center for Law and Justice, and the Justice Department.
History
Alliance Defending Freedom was launched in 1994 by leaders of the religious right in the United States who felt that the battles over gay rights were interfering with their ability to strengthen the country’s “biblical” values. The Alliance Defense Fund (ADF) was founded by a small group of Christian attorneys and pastors, men and women, who committed to training a new generation of lawyers and defending religious liberty in America. The organization has been involved in creating several allied organizations to expand its influence, including the Center for Christian Statesmanship, the European Center for Law and Justice, and the Justice Department.
Community Involvement
The Alliance Defending Freedom has been active in several areas, including in cases where it argues that religious attitudes should prevent legal sanctions against discrimination against lesbians and gay men. It has argued in favor of Colorado baker Jack Phillips, who refused to bake a cake for the wedding reception of two men. The Supreme Court agreed to hear his case. In 2014, the ADF announced it would support individuals who oppose same-sex marriage on religious grounds by providing free legal representation, though not currently through lawsuits or other public policy campaigns. It has taken a leading role in advocating for a broad scope of protections for religious freedom in public accommodation laws.
ADF’s success has been due in part to its extensive and effective outreach to the Christian community. The organization is believed to have had a significant role in ensuring that the Supreme Court struck down provisions of the federal law forbidding churches from receiving federal funds if they support groups that discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity. It has shown a willingness to engage with conservative religious leaders and take unpopular positions, especially in cases that involve gay rights. Follow this page on twitter, for more information.
More about ADF on https://adflegal.org/