Freedom depends on responsible citizens. Learn practical ways Latter-day Saints can help preserve liberty, strengthen communities, and defend moral agency.

This article is one in a series about principles of freedom and religious liberty. It is based on principles from the book American Principles of Freedom: A Latter-day Saint Perspective, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Read other articles in the series #America250.

Freedom is not preserved by governments alone. It depends heavily on ordinary citizens who act with responsibility, integrity, and concern for others. The founders of the United States understood this principle. They believed liberty could survive only if citizens practiced virtue and self-government.

Latter-day Saints understand this idea well because agency and accountability are central to Heavenly Father’s plan. The Book of Mormon teaches, “Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh… they are free to choose liberty and eternal life.” (2 Nephi 2:27)

Freedom gives people the opportunity to choose good, serve others, strengthen families, and build better communities. But freedom also requires effort and responsibility.

Freedom Requires Participation

A free society depends on informed and engaged citizens.

The Church’s General Handbook says, “In accordance with local laws, members are encouraged to register to vote and to study issues and candidates carefully. Principles compatible with the gospel may be found in various political parties. Latter-day Saints have a special obligation to seek out and uphold leaders who are honest, good, and wise (see Doctrine and Covenants 98:10). The Church is neutral regarding political parties, political platforms, and candidates for political office. The Church does not endorse any political party or candidate. Nor does it advise members how to vote.” (General Handbook, 38.8.31)

Everyday citizens help preserve freedom when they:

• Vote thoughtfully
• Stay informed about important issues
• Respect the rights of others
• Serve in their communities
• Speak honestly and respectfully
• Follow laws fairly and responsibly

Strong Communities Protect Liberty

Freedom grows stronger when communities are healthy and united. Strong families, churches, schools, and neighborhoods help teach honesty, kindness, responsibility, and service. These values strengthen society and reduce division and conflict. We have a responsibility to be active in civic affairs and to support good and honest government.

Small acts of service often strengthen freedom more than people realize. Helping a neighbor, volunteering, mentoring youth, supporting families, and participating in community efforts all help create stable and caring societies.

Freedom and Respect Go Together

In a free society, people will not always agree. Citizens may have different political views, religious beliefs, and opinions about important issues. The Constitution protects freedom of speech and freedom of religion precisely because disagreement exists.

Respectful dialogue helps preserve unity even when disagreements remain. Latter-day Saints can stand firmly for gospel principles while still treating others with dignity and compassion.

Teaching Freedom in the Home

One of the most important places freedom is preserved is in the home.

Parents teach children honesty, responsibility, respect for others, work ethic, service, and faith in God. These virtues help prepare future citizens to use freedom wisely.

“The Family: A Proclamation to the World” teaches that parents should teach children to be “law-abiding citizens wherever they live.”

Freedom Survives When People Value It

The Constitution and laws of a nation provide important protections, but liberty ultimately depends on the character of the people. Freedom weakens when citizens become careless about truth, morality, responsibility, and respect for others.

For Latter-day Saints, preserving freedom is more than a political responsibility. It helps protect moral agency and the ability to live and share the gospel openly.

Everyday citizens preserve liberty when they choose honesty over dishonesty, service over selfishness, and faith over fear. Small actions, repeated consistently, help keep freedom strong for future generations.

Learn more:

• Articles about about religious freedom and moral agency.
• Read the book American Principles of Freedom: A Latter-day Saint Perspective.

How to access the book

• Read or download a free PDF.
• Purchase on Amazon as a paperback for only $8.95 or get as Kindle or audiobook free with your membership
• Purchase on Lulu as a paperback for only $8.95