The Californer - IRF Builders Forum Brings Global Leaders to Washington, D.C. to Advance Religious Freedom Through Cooperative Engagement

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Greg Mitchell delivers the keynote address

Inaugural International Religious Freedom Builders Forum at Catholic University of America

WASHINGTON - Californer -- The International Religious Freedom (IRF) Secretariat hosted the IRF Builders Forum last month in Washington, D.C., drawing religious freedom leaders from across the Majority World—Eurasia, Africa, and Latin America—for a strategic global convening focused on cooperative engagement and long-term impact.

At the center of this initiative is Greg Mitchell, Founder and CEO of the IRF Secretariat and Co-Chair of the IRF Roundtable, who has spent decades advancing religious freedom through civic dialogue and inclusive partnerships.

"The builders approach isn't just about advocating for change—it's about building it from the ground up through local partnerships, mutual respect, and strategic engagement," said Mitchell during his keynote address.

Participants presented case studies that showcased successful collaboration with governments and civil society to address religious restrictions while building trust and security. The Builders Forum highlighted:

Multi-faith roundtables and regional infrastructure that foster dialogue
Cross-cultural religious literacy (CCRL) as a practical peacebuilding tool
Covenantal pluralism as a path to sustainable social cohesion

IRF Builders Awards were presented to global leaders of religious freedom including Pam Prior, Former Senior Official US State Department.

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The event is part of a seven-city global initiative that includes past and upcoming forums in Berlin, Prague, Jerusalem, Latin America, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia. These convenings are designed to build a culture of philanthropy and a community of practice for advancing religious freedom through multi-sector co-creation.

IRF Secretariat operates in over 20 countries and serves as a key facilitator of civil society and government partnerships. Under Mitchell's leadership, the Secretariat is equipping local "builders" with the tools to turn advocacy into action and vision into viable policy partnerships.

Mitchell, a recognized thought leader in religious freedom and civil society engagement, emphasized the need for inclusive strategies that prioritize mutual responsibility and grassroots empowerment. Under his leadership, IRF Secretariat continues to serve as a global platform for advancing religious freedom through civic dialogue, shared responsibility, and peacebuilding partnerships.

"Freedom of religion or belief is not only a human right—it's a foundation for societal stability and security," Mitchell stated. "By coming together across sectors and faiths, we can build stronger, more peaceful communities around the world."

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The event was co-convened by the IRF Secretariat, Templeton Religion Trust, and Love Your Neighbor Community, with significant co-sponsorship from a broad coalition of organizations including the Global Peace Foundation.