By Dawn’s Early Light Film: Regent voices help illuminate America’s fight for faith and freedom.

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As America commemorates 250 years of its rich history and heritage, a powerful new documentary is reminding viewers that the fight for freedom did not end with the nation’s founding — it continues today.

By Dawn’s Early Light, a new feature-length documentary, traces the pivotal moments of the War of 1812, culminating in the relentless British bombardment of Fort McHenry. It was there, amid smoke, fire, and uncertainty, that Francis Scott Key witnessed an American flag still flying at dawn and found inspiration for the words that would become “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

In that defining moment, the survival of a young nation — and the ideals of liberty it represented — hung in the balance.

The film uses that historic battle as a backdrop for a broader examination of the challenges facing freedom in America today. Through historical analysis, interviews, and investigative storytelling, By Dawn’s Early Light explores how the liberties defended on battlefields generations ago continue to require vigilance and protection, particularly for people of faith.

Watch for free until August 31 at www.bydawnsearlylightfilm.com!

Among the documentary’s most notable contributors are four individuals with strong ties to Regent University, underscoring the university’s longstanding commitment to advancing faith, freedom, and constitutional principles in the public square.

One of those voices is Dr. Mark David Hall, professor in Regent University’s Robertson School of Government. A nationally recognized scholar of American political thought and religious liberty, Hall served on the President’s Religious Liberty Commission and shares his insights throughout the film. His participation reflects Regent’s growing influence in national conversations surrounding constitutional rights, religious freedom, and civic engagement.

The documentary also features Regent Law alumnus Jordan Sekulow, executive director of the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ). A leading advocate for constitutional freedoms, Sekulow has spent much of his career defending religious liberty and First Amendment protections both in the United States and abroad.

Joining him is fellow Regent Law alumnus Kristen Waggoner, president, CEO, and general counsel of Alliance Defending Freedom. Widely recognized as one of the nation’s foremost religious liberty attorneys, Waggoner has argued landmark cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and continues to champion the constitutional rights of people of faith across America.

Another familiar name to the Regent community is Bill Federer, member of Regent University’s Board of Trustees and one of the nation’s most respected historians and authors on America’s founding principles. Through his extensive research and teaching, Federer has helped countless Americans better understand the historical relationship between faith, freedom, and the nation’s founding documents.

Together, Hall, Sekulow, Waggoner, and Federer represent a remarkable concentration of thought leadership connected to Regent University. Their participation in By Dawn’s Early Light highlights the university’s enduring commitment to equipping Christian leaders who can engage culture with conviction, wisdom, and courage.

The documentary also examines the origins and work of the federal Task Force to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias, established by Executive Order 14202 in February 2025. By exploring the task force’s findings and recommendations, the film presents what its creators describe as a modern effort to safeguard religious liberty and ensure that constitutional protections remain strong for future generations.

For supporters of Regent University and the Center for Christian Thought & Action, the documentary serves as both a celebration of America’s heritage and a reminder of the important work still ahead. It reinforces the university’s mission of preparing Christian servant-leaders to shape culture, influence public policy, and defend foundational freedoms.

The presence of so many Regent-affiliated experts in a nationally released documentary also reflects the university’s growing reputation as a trusted voice on issues at the intersection of faith, government, law, and culture.

Preserving and protecting the religious liberty and constitutional rights of every American has never been more important — or urgent! Your generous support of Regent University will equip even more patriots to fight — and win — the battle to ensure faith and freedom flourish across this great nation.

As the nation reflects on two and a half centuries of freedom, By Dawn’s Early Light offers a timely reminder that liberty is never self-sustaining. Each generation must decide whether it will preserve the blessings it has inherited — and Regent University remains committed to preparing leaders who will answer that call with faith, courage, and conviction.

Note: By Dawn’s Early Light is available for free viewing through August 31, 2026, for individuals, churches, and civic organizations seeking to deepen their understanding of America’s history and the ongoing importance of religious liberty. Visit their website