Washington: The Trump administration has announced that US federal employees are allowed to express and promote their religious beliefs in the workplace. The US Office of Personnel Management (OPM), the chief human resources agency for the federal government, issued a government-wide memorandum, directing federal agencies "to take affirmative steps to protect religious expression in the workplace."

According to Anadolu Agency, the memo provides clear guidance to ensure federal employees may express their religious beliefs through prayer, personal items, group gatherings, and conversations without fear of discrimination or retaliation. The OPM stated, "Federal employees should never have to choose between their faith and their career," quoting Director Scott Kupor. "This guidance ensures the federal workplace is not just compliant with the law but welcoming to Americans of all faiths. Under President Trump's leadership, we are restoring constitutional freedoms and making government a place where people of faith are respected, not sidelined," Kupor added.

The letter outlines that public servants have the legal right to share their religious views at work under civil rights protections and the First Amendment. The guidance permits employees to openly discuss religion, participate in collective religious activities, and display religious symbols at their workstations. "Employees may engage in conversations regarding religious topics with fellow employees, including attempting to persuade others of the correctness of their own religious views, provided that such efforts are not harassing in nature," said the memo.

The document also allows employees to display and use items for religious purposes, including bibles, artwork, jewelry, and religious messages in their workspaces. The five-page document provides scenarios where religious expression is permitted, such as inviting coworkers to religious services, posting holiday event flyers, and displaying religious-themed posters. It further states that Veterans Affairs doctors can pray over their patients, and park rangers for the National Park Service can join public prayer during park tours.