Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission’s Policy Work in Washington, D.C. Focuses on Religious Liberty and Family Values

Brent Leatherwood, president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), describes the organization as the public policy arm of the Southern Baptist Convention. Based in Washington, D.C., the ERLC operates from the Leland House and focuses on issues such as religious liberty, life, human dignity, and marriage and family. Leatherwood emphasizes that the ERLC speaks both for and from Southern Baptist churches, ensuring that its advocacy reflects the values and concerns of the denomination.

Leatherwood explains that the ERLC’s role is rooted in service to churches, which enables the organization to effectively represent them in public discourse. He notes that the ERLC has been engaged in policy work for over a century, consistently striving to communicate the principles that guide Southern Baptist congregations to contemporary issues. This commitment ensures that the ERLC remains a voice for the convention’s teachings and priorities.

When asked about the ERLC’s unique position among Washington, D.C., advocacy groups, Leatherwood shares an experience from last summer. During a meeting with a U.S. senator, the senator expressed appreciation for the ERLC’s dedication to eternal and unchanging truths. The senator noted that while many organizations in the capital engage in good work, the ERLC stands out for its alignment with foundational moral principles rather than political agendas.

This recognition highlights the ERLC’s distinct approach, which Leatherwood believes sets it apart from other groups. While acknowledging that many peers perform valuable service, he underscores the ERLC’s focus on enduring truths as a guiding force in its policy efforts. This alignment with Southern Baptist values is seen as a key differentiator in the organization’s work on Capitol Hill.

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