On March 20, 2024, Law Society members from several chapters in Brazil participated in the International Seminar on Religious Freedom. Under the theme, "If not now, when?", the seminar explored the subject of religious freedom, a cornerstone of human rights and dignity. The event underscored the significance of religious freedom in Brazil, referencing Article 5, Section VIII of the Federal Constitution, which guarantees that "no one shall be deprived of rights on the grounds of religious belief." Over 150 people attended the seminar, which offered a unique opportunity for all participants to reflect on the importance of religious freedom and respect for diverse beliefs, reinforcing a commitment to human dignity and rights.
The event featured distinguished speakers, including a broadcast message from Elder Ulisses Soares of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who opened the seminar with welcoming remarks. Rachel Miner, the founder and CEO of Bellwether International, discussed the current state of religious freedom, while Dean David Moore of BYU Law’s broadcasted message delved into the principles and challenges of freedom of religion or belief.
Guest speakers also included Dr. Francielli Mores, who made expert contributions from OAB/PR (Order of Lawyers of Brazil, Parana Section) on the essentials of preserving religious freedom; Judge Erick Linhares from TJRR (the Tribunal of Justice for the state of Roraima), who addressed religious freedom and the traditional peoples of the Amazon region; and Judge Airton Vieira from TJSP (the Court of Justice of Sao Pãulo), who presented on the Supreme Federal Court's jurisprudence regarding freedom of belief.
The event occurred at the Boa Vista Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located in Boa Vista, Roraima, Brazil. The event was sponsored by Bellwether International and coordinated by Claudio Antonio Klaus, Jr., Brazil Curitiba Chapter, and Alcenir Souza, Brazil Campinas Chapter.