The Illusion of Religious Freedom in the United States
RELIGIOUS SYMBOLS Yesterday's Supreme Court decision for small private corporations, and their desire to exercise a particular faith stance within their business operations, has created a firestorm in both religious and political circles. The discussion has centered around religious freedom on which, many believe, this country was founded and is protected by the Constitution. I would argue however, that this is an illusion and is practiced only when politically expedient. A review of our history reveals that the words are there, but the practice of religious freedom has been lacking. I am always taken aback by those who claim that this country was founded on the principles of religious freedom. It was not. The founding fathers took great pains to ensure that there was a separation of church and state and the infusion of religion into governance. Some of the more notable quotes include these by the these famous founding fathers: “The...