Jews and Christians are largely responsible for advancing the principle of religious freedom in the West. However, the very communities that bequeathed this tradition are increasingly under threat in the countries that have most benefited from it. Antisemitic hate crimes and Christian persecution in Canada don’t just threaten Jews and Christians; they undermine the foundations of a free and prosperous society altogether.

Religious freedom is fundamental to a free and flourishing society. But in Canada, the freedom to live, work, and worship freely and securely is under attack. 

In recent years, we have seen the burning, vandalism, and desecration of numerous churches in Canada. Christians face threats to the charitable status of churches, ministries, and pro-life organizations. And there are consistently threats to the independence of faith-based institutions to provide care and services in accordance with Christian principles. Meanwhile, antisemitic incidents have skyrocketed with attacks on schools, synagogues, and Jewish businesses. There is inadequate protection for Jewish spaces, including public spaces such as universities and neighbourhoods. Antisemitic hate crimes and Christian persecution in Canada don’t just threaten Jews and Christians; they undermine the foundations of a free and prosperous society altogether.

There isn’t enough being done. And many of the existing strategies are not working. That is why The Democracy Fund is launching the Religious Freedom Fellowship.

Through this program, Canadians aged 18 to 35 will be selected to form a cohort that will reflect on the history and value of religious freedom through a series of webinars. But they will also take up concrete projects of their own choosing and in their own cities to creatively tackle discrimination against Jews and Christians.

Fellows will become part of a competitively selected cohort of engaged Canadians from across the country. While the program is conducted remotely, fellows will interact with each other and with inspiring guest speakers through virtual meetings. There is also a group forum throughout the year to build community and stay in touch on religious freedom issues in Canada. Religious Freedom Program Fellows will receive mentorship and direction in fulfilling their action project and will be the first to hear about additional opportunities. Those who successfully fulfill the program requirements will also receive a $5,000 stipend.

Canadians committed to promoting the freedom to live, work, and worship without fear are invited to apply now. The deadline for priority consideration is April 1, 2026.

Learn more and apply at: https://religiousfreedomfellowship.ca/