by Deborah Levinson
Bob Jones in Charge?
And let's not forget some of our favorite religious organizations, such as Bob Jones University, "I don't want Bob Jones University to be able to take federal dollars for an alcohol treatment program and put out a sign that says no Catholics or Jews need apply here for a federally funded job," said Chet Edwards, a congressman from Texas.
Others chimed in with their own concerns.
Laura Murphy, director of the Washington national office of the American Civil Liberties Union, said the plan raises civil rights question as well because, for example, there would be nothing to force a Jewish-run mental health program to treat members of other religions.
Even those of us who are religious, and I count myself in that number, have to worry what will happen when government gets to pick and choose which religion(s) obtain funding, or what is a "qualifying" religion in order to apply for funding.
Rabbi David Saperstein, director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, noted that concern in commenting, "While constitutionally permissible in theory, in practice this office is woefully unwise. It signifies unprecedented government endorsement of religion."
If you are not sure why this issue is important to those of us involved in working towards equal civil rights for gays and lesbians, you haven't been paying attention.
And frankly, with this latest development, you had better start paying attention.
Now.
Before it is too late.
In Pride,
Deborah
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