Organizing Institute
Sharpen your advocacy skills
The SRF Organizing Institute is a hands-on, pre-summit training designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to defend church-state separation and inclusive religious freedom in their communities.
New for 2026: Returning participants will be invited into a dedicated “level-up” track to expand and deepen the skills they gained in prior years.
Why it matters
The Organizing Institute is your chance to get hands-on practice and build confidence as an advocate for inclusive religious freedom.
It’s not just about learning policies or theories — it’s about protecting real lives, strengthening democracy, and connecting with others who share your values.
Together, we’ll sharpen skills and build relationships so you leave SRF not only inspired, but ready to take action in your community.
What to expect
- Gain practical skills in messaging, outreach, and coalition-building
- Learn to effectively communicate about church-state separation with different audiences using storytelling and values-based framing.
- Explore how church-state separation connects to issues you already care about
- Participate in small group discussions and exercises
- Network with activists and organizers from across the country who are committed to making religious freedom real for all of us.
Logistics
Cost: There is an additional $25.00 fee to attend the Organizing Institute.
Location: The Westin Alexandria Old Town
Date & Time: Saturday, April 25, 2026 | 12 PM – 5 PM
Food: Lunch is provided
Our commitment
The Organizing Institute reflects SRF’s guiding principles of being accessible, sustainable, continuous, a “Big Tent,” and a safer/braver space where everyone feels welcome, diverse voices are valued, and where practical learning tools meet community care.
Who should attend?
Activists and organizers
Faith leaders and allies
Educators, students and community advocates
Our commitment to you
- The SRF Organizing Institute is more than a one-day training. It’s a launchpad for long-term impact.
You will leave the institute with:
- Confidence in speaking about church-state separation in your own communities
- Connections to a national network of organizers, advocates, and faith/non-faith leaders
- A renewed commitment to advancing inclusive religious freedom and multiracial democracy in the months and years to come
Together, we’ll ensure that the fight for church-state separation is not only continued — but carried forward by a stronger, more connected, and more resilient movement.
