It is possible to create an alternative discourse on Muslim approaches to free speech, by re-reading aspects of Islamic teachings, says Dilwar Hussain, responding to issues raised by the Convention on Modern Liberty.

Jews need reassurance right now that the agenda represented by the renewed civil liberties movement in Britain is for them, writes Keith Kahn-Harris. They represent a powerful resource for change, but fear is holding them back.

Faith communities don't need special privileges, says Vaughan Jones. They need to be free to be the communities they are and to ensure that all members are treated as full human beings with full rights.

Some Christians are crying 'persecution' when conflicts over belief arise in public life, says Jonathan Bartley. The way to halt this juggernaut of paranoia is to bring a lot more mediatory light, and far less antagonistic heat to the situations involved.

There are many people in Britain's faith communities who have not yet grasped the importance of taking action now on threats to civil liberties, says Savi Hensman. She would like to see that change.

Genuine faith – in God, in the good, in people and in the future of our planet – grows through freedom, depends upon freedom to keep it honest, and can contribute to the shared openness and strived-for equality that is an essential part of our free flourishing, argues Simon Barrow.

The Convention on Modern Liberty, which is bringing together people from all parties and belief persuasions across Britain, has published a new report highlighting a massive governmental assault on civil rights.

There is something genuine about Barack Obama's desire to bring governance and people closer together, says Simon Barrow. This is an approach we need to emulate in Britain, where cynicism is eroding social hope.