Legal Rights / RFRA Protections

Understanding RFRA: A Safeguard for Religious Freedom

Legal Rights / RFRA Protections: The Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) was passed in 1993 to ensure that religious liberty is not trampled by state or federal overreach. Under RFRA, the government must show a compelling reason and use the least restrictive means before burdening any religious practice. The U.S. Supreme Court upheld this law in Gonzales v. O Centro Espirita, affirming the right of churches to use ayahuasca in their ceremonies when done in sincere religious practice.

Temple of Umi: A Legitimate Religious Institution

Temple of Umi is structured as a bona fide religious institution. Our ceremonies are not casual, commercial, or therapeutic. They are sacred and protected. Our leadership is trained, our policies are clear, and our religious doctrine is well-documented.

Faith, Sincerity, and Legal Protection

The government does not have the authority to define the validity of our beliefs. It can only determine sincerity and harm. We are unwavering in our sincerity, and there is no evidence of damage. What we offer is sanctuary and support.

RFRA is Our Shield Against Criminalization

Attempts to criminalize our practice are attempts to criminalize our faith. We invoke our full protection under RFRA and the U.S. Constitution. Any interference with our ceremonies must be justified under the strictest legal standard and must be challenged.

Education, Advocacy, and Community Protection

We educate all participants and law enforcement agencies on our legal standing. We are building an interfaith coalition to advocate for broader protections, and we are engaged in ongoing legal education to protect our temple, members, and ministers.

RFRA is Law, Not a Loophole

RFRA is not a loophole. It is a constitutional safeguard. We operate with integrity and within the law, and we expect the same from those who interact with us.