Queen Creek group gathers to embrace religious freedom

Community members from across the southeast Valley recently gathered to explore the connection between religious freedom and broader freedoms for all.

The interfaith event took place Nov. 10 at Crismon High School and featured speakers, community leaders and a musical performance.

The event’s keynote speaker, Steven T. Collis, a law professor at the University of Texas, discussed religious liberty, highlighting how this freedom fosters a foundation for individual rights across society.

Collis emphasized that religious freedom safeguards other personal liberties and plays a vital role in preserving democracy and respect for diverse beliefs.

Queen Creek Councilman Bryan McClure led the meeting, guiding attendees through the program. Jennifer Revolt, president of the Queen Creek Unified School District Governing Board and member of Rock Point Church, and John Lewis, former mayor of Gilbert and a regional ecclesiastical leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also shared their thoughts.

Both leaders underscored the role of respect, community engagement and open dialogue in maintaining freedoms.

Participants expressed their enthusiasm for future gatherings, recognizing the need for continued discussions about religious freedom and its role in a fair and open society.

“(It was) a wonderful evening full of music, profound words and thoughtful questions on a topic that is dear to my heart: religious freedom,” Melissa Bowcutt, a community member, said. “I hope to see other events like this in the future.”

Haylie Studebaker, is a community outreach specialist for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.