RELIGIOUS FREEDOM DAY, 2026

In this presidential proclamation, President Donald J. Trump designates January 16, 2026, as Religious Freedom Day, marking the 250th anniversary year of American independence by emphasizing the central role of faith in the nation’s history and governance.Historical ContextThe proclamation traces the American tradition of religious liberty from the arrival of the Pilgrims on the Mayflower to the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom (ratified Jan. 16, 1786). Authored by Thomas Jefferson, this statute served as the foundation for the First Amendment and codified the principle that the "mind was created to be free."Key Administrative InitiativesThe President outlines several specific actions taken by his administration to bring "faith back to the public square":Establishment of New Offices: The creation of the White House Faith Office and the Religious Liberty Commission.Task Force to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias: A new body charged with identifying and eliminating anti-Christian policies and conduct within executive departments and agencies.School Prayer: Directives to the Department of Education to protect the First Amendment right to prayer in public schools."America Prays": A cornerstone of the "Freedom 250" initiative that invites citizens of all backgrounds to join in prayer for the nation’s future.The "Revolution of Common Sense"President Trump frames the resurgence of faith as essential to his broader agenda, stating that the "revolution of common sense is incomplete without a resurgence of faith in God." He pledges to continue fighting to restore America’s status as a "Nation of prayer" and a "radiant beacon of liberty."Call to ActionThe proclamation calls upon all Americans to observe the day with events honoring religious freedom and encourages families to gather at places of worship to praise God for the "blessings of liberty" bestowed upon the country.