It is the law. We need to know what religion you are to determine whether or not you are being persecuted for your religion. In another place. and this is over from 8 U.S.C.. this is in section 1101. and this is the section regarding refugee status. but to qualify. the applicant must be a refugee as defined by Federal law. and then that definition is what is at section 1101(a)(42)(A). "The term refugee means (A) any person who is outside any country of such persons nationality . . . and who is unable or unwilling to return to . . . that country because of persecution or a wellfounded fear of persecution on account of. . . religion." Religion is important to take into account in determining whether someone is truly a refugee. It is American. It is not shameful.