Inaugural IRF Builders Forum and Awards Dinner to Convene Religious Freedom Leaders in Washington, D.C. - Faith & Freedom News

May 7, 2025

Global Religious Freedom Leaders to Gather for Historic Event

Religious freedom advocates from around the world will convene in Washington, D.C. on May 21-22, 2025, for the inaugural IRF Builders Forum and Awards Dinner, a landmark event in the international religious freedom movement.

The two-day forum, organized by the IRF Secretariat in partnership with LYNC – Love Your Neighbor Community, Templeton Religion Trust, and the Religious Freedom & Business Foundation, aims to strengthen collaboration among religious freedom advocates globally.

“This gathering represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to advance religious freedom worldwide,” said a spokesperson from the IRF Secretariat. “By bringing together diverse stakeholders, we hope to catalyze new partnerships and strategies for protecting this fundamental human right.”

Distinguished Speakers to Address Critical Religious Freedom Issues

Among the featured speakers is Patrick Harvey, Senior Official performing the duties of the Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom at the U.S. Department of State. A career diplomat and human rights expert, Harvey brings extensive experience from his service in Iraq, West Africa, and Central Europe.

Throughout his distinguished career, Harvey has held key policy roles advancing religious freedom globally. His previous work includes advising the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, and he is also a Georgetown Capitol Hill Fellow.

Harvey’s participation underscores the importance of governmental partnerships in advancing religious freedom initiatives worldwide. His insights are expected to provide valuable perspective on current international religious freedom policies and diplomatic efforts.

Other speakers will include representatives from civil society organizations, religious communities, academic institutions, and businesses committed to religious freedom advocacy.

Event to Highlight Successful Models and Honor Champions

The forum will feature panels and workshops focused on effective strategies for advancing religious freedom, particularly in challenging contexts. Participants will share best practices, discuss emerging threats, and explore innovative approaches to religious freedom advocacy.

The culmination of the two-day event will be an Awards Dinner recognizing outstanding contributions to the advancement of religious freedom around the world. Award recipients will include individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to protecting and promoting freedom of religion or belief.

Early Registration Discount Available

Those interested in attending can secure a 30% discount by registering before Friday, May 9. Registration is available through the event’s Eventbrite page.

“We encourage everyone committed to religious freedom to join us for this historic gathering,” the organizers stated. “Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or new to the field, this forum offers valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration.”

For additional information, interested parties can visit the IRF Secretariat website or follow the event hashtag #IRFForum2025 on social media platforms.

The IRF Builders Forum and Awards Dinner represents a collaborative effort to strengthen the global religious freedom movement through shared knowledge, strategic partnerships, and recognition of exemplary advocacy.