Religious freedom, fairness root of issue

Dear Editor,

Marysville Elementary School in Ohio is hosting a visit from The Satanic Temple to demonstrate their commitment to supporting religious freedom and promoting essential values like compassion, kindness, and critical thinking to the students. These principles are core to the American ethos and should be embraced by all citizens, regardless of their background.

The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees that government institutions, including schools and the Department of Education, must not show favoritism or prioritize one religion over another. This fundamental protection ensures that all beliefs are respected equally in public institutions. Therefore, in the spirit of fairness and creating an even playing field, I welcome The Satanic Temple to present their religious texts, symbols, and teachings, just as Christian groups apparently have the right to do so.

It’s important that schools remain neutral when it comes to religion, fostering an environment where all belief systems are treated with respect. Ideally, the school should be a place where no single religion is privileged over others, and all faiths are welcomed equally. In this spirit of inclusivity, we might consider extending invitations to representatives from other faith traditions, such as Islam, Taoism, Buddhism, and others, to contribute their perspectives as well.

Religious freedom and respect for diverse belief systems are foundational to the American experience and we should uphold these values in our schools, ensuring that all students are exposed to a range of ideas in a way that fosters understanding and mutual respect.

Steve Hudson
Belle Center
Former Ohio chair, Americans United for Separation of Church and State