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About
The Thomas More Law Center (TMLC) is a Christian conservative nonprofit public interest law firm founded in 1998 by Domino's Pizza founder Tom Monaghan and former prosecutor Richard Thompson. Headquartered in Ann Arbor Charter Township, Michigan, TMLC operates nationwide and focuses on litigation to advance a socially conservative agenda rooted in Judeo-Christian values. Its work includes defending religious freedoms—particularly for Christians—opposing perceived threats to traditional moral and family values, protecting the sanctity of life, and promoting a strong national defense. The organization has been involved in high-profile cases such as challenges to the Affordable Care Act's contraception mandate, defenses of public displays of the Ten Commandments, and lawsuits against public school curricula involving Islamic teachings, claiming such programs violate the Establishment Clause. TMLC's litigation against Islamic education programs has drawn significant controversy, with critics including the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) designating it as an anti-Muslim hate group and accusing it of promoting Islamophobia. Despite these criticisms, TMLC maintains that it is protecting First Amendment rights and has achieved legal victories such as rulings allowing Christian prayers at public events. Financially supported primarily by individual conservative donors, TMLC aligns with broader networks of the religious right. Its work also extends to immigration, national security, and election integrity issues, often positioning itself against progressive policies. While praised in conservative circles, it faces ongoing scrutiny for selective religious defenses prioritizing Christianity. The organization has included staff positions such as Senior Trial Counsel among its legal team.