Religion is a huge part of American conversation. Regardless of which side they fall on, all people will fall strongly on one side of the conversation. The First Amendment states that there will be freedom of religion, not freedom of religion. Where this thin, but important line falls is of great debate. The most important thing is that the rights of all must be protected.
When Minersville v. Gobitis was heard, prayer was a fundamental part of the public American school system. The acts of the Gobitas children were seen as insubordination. However, in West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette the Supreme Court ruled that free speech not only included the right to say whatever one pleased, but the right not to say something.
The moment of silence grew out of the tradition of prayer, however schools cannot require children to do anything during this time except being quiet. One parent along with the American Civil Liberties Union, sees this as a way to incorporate prayer and religion in public schools.
The conversation and debate of creationism and evolution in Texas is more difficult. The conversation is filled with strong feelings and ideas, and it seems as if much more is at stake. Some want to change the curriculum so it will be more difficult to discuss the possible weakness in evolutionary theory. Scientists argue that discussing the strengths and weakness of evolution will allow more teachers to incorporate creationism in schools.
I find the First Amendment to be an important, vital part of the American identity. I recognize the importance of a student being able to speak their mind and stand up for their rights, even if it means not participating.
Personally, I think that there should be a clear separation between church and state, so I find the ruling of West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette rather favorable. I think the separation of church and state is an important part of the American identity, and I admire Roger Williams very much for that reason.
There is such a diverse population in our schools, that I think incorporating any religion would be at the expense of making others feel marginalized. Since schools should be an open, accepting place for all students, I find the idea unacceptable.
"The First Amendment states that there will be freedom of religion, not freedom of religion."
ReplyDeleteI don't understand what you meant by the statement above at the start of your entry.
Also, some think that the rights of many others are being denied due to the protection of a few with regard to not being able to offer a prayer at a graduation or before a sports event without being in violation of the law...what are your thoughts about those issues?
I meant to say "not freedom from religion."
ReplyDeleteAt public school events, I do not think that people should be able to pray over the microphone, for instance. Most of the particpants are not adults yet, and they can be still be rather impressionable or may not yet feel comfortable speaking up for themselves. When the participants are adults, I think it is less important. Prayer at a college graduation would not bother me at all.