06/05/2026
Statement from the Alatunse on Recent U.S. Department of Defense Religious Affiliation Reforms
Recent reforms announced by the United States Department of Defense have reduced the military's religious affiliation reporting system from more than 200 faith and belief codes to 31 broad categories. While this change has generated concern among practitioners of Ifá, Isese, Lukumí, Candomblé, Orisa Religion, and other African Traditional Religions (ATRs), the facts presently available require a measured and informed response.
Current evidence indicates that these reforms do not eliminate constitutional protections for religious freedom, nor do they prohibit the practice of African Traditional Religions within the U.S. military. Service members retain the right to practice their faith, request religious accommodations, and seek appropriate spiritual support.
The principal concern is not religious liberty, but religious visibility. The Department of Defense has not yet publicly released a detailed classification crosswalk showing how previously recognized faith affiliations have been consolidated into the new reporting structure. Consequently, it remains unclear how Ifá, Isese, Lukumí, Candomblé, Orisa Religion, and related traditions are represented within the new system.
Until further information is released, our community should avoid speculation and alarmist conclusions. Instead, we should focus on strengthening our institutions, documenting our traditions, supporting military practitioners, and advocating for accurate representation of African Traditional Religions within public institutions.
Key Points for the Global Community
* There is currently no evidence that Orisa religious practice has been banned or restricted.
* Religious freedom protections remain in force for practitioners of African Traditional Religions.
* The primary issue is visibility and representation, not legality.
* The Department of Defense has not yet clarified how ATR traditions are categorized within the new system.
* Community members should avoid spreading unverified claims.
* Military practitioners should continue requesting accommodations and religious support when needed.
* Orisa organizations should monitor future policy developments and advocate for clear representation.
* Greater unity and institutional development within the global ATR community are essential.
Our traditions have endured slavery, colonialism, cultural suppression, and misunderstanding. We therefore approach this moment with vigilance, wisdom, dignity, and unity. While we await further clarification from the Department of Defense, we remain committed to ensuring that African Traditional Religions are not only free to exist, but visible, respected, and accurately represented wherever our people serve.
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Obafemi Origunwa, MA | OrisaLifestyle.com