This professional development session for educators that delves into Rhode Island’s unique role in shaping religious liberty in America. Led by historian John McNiff and educator Michelle Walker, the session reflects on Roger Williams’ founding ideals of tolerance and explores how these values have played out over the state’s history. Key topics include the arrival of Jewish families in Newport, the founding of the Touro Synagogue, the spread of Catholicism through immigration, and the significant role of Quakers in shaping local society.

The session also considers the evolving legal landscape, such as voting restrictions once placed on non-Protestants, and how they reflect broader shifts in religious inclusion. With a compelling video presentation and a comprehensive slide deck, this workshop offers historical insights and ready-to-use classroom resources—equipping educators to engage students in meaningful discussions about religious freedom, civic identity, and the ongoing pursuit of equity.