Alliance Defending Freedom is a conservative Christian nonprofit organization that advocates for religious freedom, free speech, and the sanctity of life. The organization was founded in 1994 by Christian leaders, including James Dobson, Bill Bright, and Larry Burkett. ADF has a network of attorneys who provide legal support to individuals and organizations facing legal challenges related to their religious beliefs or moral convictions.
Some of the critical issues that Alliance Defending Freedom works on include defending the rights of business owners who object to providing services for same-sex weddings, advocating for the right of students to express their religious beliefs in public schools, and protecting the conscience rights of healthcare workers who object to participating in certain medical procedures, such as abortions.
ADF has been involved in numerous high-profile legal cases, including Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission, where ADF represented a Colorado baker who refused to create a custom cake for a same-sex wedding. ADF also represented Hobby Lobby in the landmark Supreme Court case Burwell v. Hobby Lobby, which established that closely held corporations have a right to religious freedom under the First Amendment.
Critics of Alliance Defending Freedom argue that the organization promotes discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals and undermines the rights of marginalized groups. Some have accused ADF of promoting a “hate-filled” agenda and using religious freedom as a cover for bigotry. ADF is a nonprofit organization that relies heavily on donations and philanthropy to fund its operations and legal work. ADF has a robust fundraising program and receives donations from individuals, foundations, and businesses that support its mission. According to ADF’s financial statements, the organization received over $68 million in donations and grants in the fiscal year ending in 2020. The organization also has a solid donor base, with over 3,000 individual donors contributing more than $5,000 each.
Alliance Defending Freedom also hosts fundraising events, such as the Blackstone Legal Fellowship, which provides scholarships to law students interested in defending religious freedom and the sanctity of life. The organization also partners with churches and other religious organizations to raise awareness and solicit donations.
It’s worth noting that ADF’s advocacy work has been controversial and divisive, with some critics accusing the organization of promoting discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized groups. As a result, some companies and foundations have declined to support ADF or have faced pressure from activists to cut ties with the organization. However, ADF continues to receive significant support from donors who share its conservative Christian values and support its legal work. Like this page on Facebook, to learn more.
Find more information about ADF on https://www.adfministryalliance.org/