It’s not every day that someone juggling law, public policy, political commentary—and motherhood to ten children—gets national recognition.
But this year, Andrea Picciotti-Bayer is having that moment.
She’s just been named the 2025 recipient of the Religious Freedom Impact Award, and it’s well deserved.
Celebrating a Voice for Religious Liberty
The Religious Freedom Institute (RFI) made the announcement on July 2, applauding Picciotti-Bayer’s long-standing dedication to promoting religious freedom.
The award celebrates leaders who’ve shown innovation, consistency, and powerful advocacy in defending religious rights through law, policy, or culture.
She’ll officially receive the honor at RFI’s Annual Dinner in Washington, D.C., on November 6.
Law, Faith, and Family at the Core of Her Work
Picciotti-Bayer is more than just a sharp legal mind.
She’s an attorney, policy expert, and commentator who’s spent years defending conscience rights and religious liberty—especially where it intersects with education, parental rights, and health care.
But one of the most defining parts of her journey? Being a mom.
A Mother of Ten Who Found Purpose in Parenthood
Andrea, a Catholic mother of ten, told CNA that her family life has been central to shaping her work.
In fact, she believes being a mom made her a better lawyer.
“Having children made me a better lawyer,” she said.
“It allowed me to understand firsthand the concerns of parents fighting for their ability to raise their children according to their consciences.”
She credits her success to her faith, saying she clearly sees God’s hand in her life.
Her advice to other Christian women balancing faith, family, and professional goals?
Trust in God’s generosity—because, as she puts it, “we can never outdo God in generosity.”
From Full-Time Mom to Legal Advocate Again
After spending over a decade raising her children full-time, Picciotti-Bayer returned to the legal world with renewed energy and purpose.
“I was ready to roll up my sleeves,” she said. And she did just that.
Leading the Fight Through the Conscience Project
Today, Picciotti-Bayer is the director of the Conscience Project, where she collaborates with legal scholars and intellectuals.
Her team crafts thoughtful public arguments and files amicus briefs in high-profile religious freedom cases—both at the appellate level and the U.S. Supreme Court.
Whether it’s defending parental rights or protecting conscience-based medical care, she’s constantly in the trenches advocating for those whose beliefs are under pressure.
Looking Ahead
As November’s award ceremony approaches, it’s clear that Picciotti-Bayer is more than just a recipient of a prestigious title.
She’s a living example of how personal conviction, professional expertise, and deep faith can work hand in hand to influence the world for the better.
