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About the Freedom Fast

A sacred pause. A national act. A shared beginning.

The Freedom Fast is a

one-day

nationwide

invitation

to fast, reflect, and reconnect — with each other, with our communities, and with our shared civic and moral values.

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Rooted

in faith traditions

and civic practice

it offers people from all walks of life a space to pause and ask: What does freedom ask of us now?

Our Mission

To bring together people of all faiths and political traditions in 2026, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, to seek guidance, practice humility, and foster healing through prayer, fasting, and local action.

A scroll with the years 1774, 1863, and 2026 written on it, with candles placed above each year, representing historical periods or milestones.

Rooted in History

For centuries, American leaders have declared national fasts in times of crisis or conflict:

  • The Continental Congress called for fasts in 1774 and 1775

  • Abraham Lincoln used fasts to unify a nation on the brink of collapse

  • Faith leaders across traditions have long used fasting to humble hearts and prepare people for transformation

The Freedom Fast is a continuation of that tradition — and a reinvention of it for our time.

How This Began

This project was born from a question:

Could we reintroduce the ancient practice of fasting into the modern American soul—not just as a spiritual exercise, but as a civic one?

Inspired by Isaiah 58 and America’s own tradition of national fasts, Jim Copple and a growing team of partners began building a movement that invites everyone—regardless of background, belief, or party—to participate in a shared moment of reflection and commitment.

We have no right to ask God to do our duty.

~ 19th-century preacher during a national fast

Why This Is Different

A stylized illustration of a raised fist with a background of a circle and a diagonal line, symbolizing solidarity or protest.

This is not
a protest.

Illustration of a podium with a microphone, and a string of patriotic banners with stars hanging above it, on a dark background.

It’s not a political campaign.

It’s an invitation.

To pause.
To self-reflect.

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To act with courage and compassion to build bridges and deepen understanding in our local communities.

It’s not a single-issue movement.

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Open to All

Fasting is practiced across every major religion — and by many who are not religious at all.

The Freedom Fast honors this diversity, offering space for everyone to participate in ways that are meaningful to them. Whether you fast from food, media, distraction, or convenience — all are welcome.

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