Foundations of Freedom is an academic incentive program that utilizes student presentations of historical events to enrich the history, social science, fine arts, and literature curriculums for all grade levels in America’s schools.
Its purpose is twofold: first, to enable students to recognize First Amendment influences in American political, social, cultural, and historical life; and second, to allow students to understand and demonstrate the importance and significance religion has played in the development of those rights in American history. Its focus is the protection of all freedoms and preserve historical evidence of how religion has contributed to American literature, historical-sociological events, musical expressions, and the personal lives of its citizens. Its goal is to help students become knowledgeable and experience the protections offered in the Bill of Rights while becoming aware of the need to protect America’s diverse religious beliefs within the public arena.
Foundations of Freedom affirms the exercise and protection of freedoms of religion, speech, press, assemble, and petition that were guaranteed by our nation’s founders as reflected in America’s documents – Declaration of Independence, Constitution of the United States, Bill of Rights – and as supported by laws and orders of the three branches of government.
The Significance
By implementing Foundations of Freedom a school may enhance its curriculum resources and secure the teaching of specific content standards in its history, social science, fine arts, and literature content areas.
The program provides to students, families, schools, and communities assistance in the education and understanding of religious freedom and First Amendment rights in American history. It seeks to promote the profound influence religion and religious beliefs have had on all aspects of American’s societal, cultural, and political life from the 16th century through present day events.
The Legal Connection
Foundations of Freedom has been endorsed and/or given approval by ACLU, ACLJ, NEA, Liberty Counsel, Christian Educators Association International, and many others.