Our work
Religious Liberty
Protecting the Freedom to Practice One’s Faith
Image source: Tzedek AssociationReligious freedom is one of America’s most cherished constitutional principles. It does not end at the prison gate. Tzedek works to ensure that sincere religious practice remains a meaningful reality—not merely a legal principle.
Why Religious Liberty Matters
Faith gives many incarcerated individuals the hope, accountability, moral guidance, resilience, family connection, and community support needed to transform their lives. Supporting sincere religious practice benefits individuals, correctional staff, families, and the communities to which people return.
Our Work
Tzedek advocates for access to religious services and diets, Sabbath and holiday observance, prayer accommodations, books and study materials, religious clothing and articles, chaplaincy, and family- and faith-based programming.
Working With Correctional Leaders
Meaningful change comes through partnership. Tzedek works constructively with wardens, chaplains, correctional staff, federal and state systems, and government agencies to find balanced solutions that protect both institutional security and religious liberty.
Standing With Families
When someone is incarcerated, an entire family is affected. Helping people remain connected to their faith communities and traditions can preserve family bonds, encourage rehabilitation, and foster hope during long periods of separation.
Religious Liberty Beyond Prison Walls
Tzedek’s work also includes protecting fundamental religious practices, preserving historic cemeteries and sacred sites, supporting accommodations in schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings, and collaborating with government and faith leaders domestically and internationally.
Looking Ahead
Religious liberty requires ongoing vigilance. Tzedek will continue working to ensure that every person has a meaningful opportunity to practice sincerely held beliefs safely and responsibly.
People at the heart of the mission
Religious liberty is lived by people and communities.
Tzedek brings faith leaders, public officials, families, and advocates together around the dignity of sincere religious practice.
Images source: Tzedek Association
“Justice, justice shall you pursue.”
Deuteronomy 16:20Support this work
Your support makes persistence possible.
Help Tzedek respond quickly, advocate effectively, and keep showing up for people who need a voice.
Data source: Tzedek Association client guidance and official website.