John Whitehead founded the Rutherford Institute in 1982, envisioning a Christian legal movement focused on religious liberty. However, over the years, the movement has shifted in ways Whitehead did not anticipate.

Before cultural debates over holiday symbols and marriage emerged, Whitehead, a tall Southerner, embarked on a pioneering journey by establishing a law firm dedicated to defending Christian religious freedoms.

Today, the Christian legal landscape is different from where it started, reflecting broader societal changes. Yet, it maintains its original mission of advocating for religious liberty.