The Non-Prophets Atheist Community of Austin

Satanists in Florida offer to fill school counselor roles after DeSantis lawThe Hill, By Lexi Lonas, on July 8, 2024

https://thehill.com/homenews/education/4760286-satanists-florida-public-school-counselors-desantis/ 

In an expected turn of events, the Satanic Temple is challenging a new law in Florida, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, which permits volunteer chaplains in public schools. Lucien Greaves, co-founder of the Satanic Temple, asserts that excluding them violates the First Amendment, despite DeSantis' claim that Satanism isn't a legitimate religion. This has sparked a heated debate on religious freedom and inclusion.

The conversation delves into the implications of allowing chaplains from non-Christian backgrounds, such as Satanism, into public schools. One argument suggests that children, being highly impressionable, could easily be indoctrinated by religious figures, regardless of their intent. Thus, introducing chaplains into schools might favor certain religions and potentially indoctrinate children rather than fostering critical thinking skills and unbiased education.

One participant shares their experience and evolving view of the Satanic Temple, initially seeing it as a mere counter to religion but recognizing its strategic role in highlighting the need for separation of church and state. The temple's tactics, such as demanding equal representation in public spaces, underscore the absurdity of religious favoritism and demonstrate why no religion should receive special privileges.

The discussion also touches on legal definitions of religion. While Governor DeSantis dismisses Satanism as a religion, legal precedents and IRS criteria suggest otherwise. These criteria include having a distinct legal existence, a recognized creed, and a form of worship, all of which the Satanic Temple possesses. Therefore, excluding them from the chaplain program is legally questionable and highlights the potential for biased implementation of religious policies.

One contributor argues that the best solution is to avoid introducing religious programs into schools altogether. This would prevent any one belief system from being promoted over others and maintain the neutrality necessary for public education. Instead, resources should be allocated to secular support systems like licensed counselors and better educational funding, which genuinely address students' needs without religious interference.

As more states consider similar legislation, including Bible-based curricula and the display of religious texts in schools, the debate over religious inclusivity and the separation of church and state intensifies. The inclusion of diverse religious perspectives in public schools remains a contentious issue, raising questions about fairness, legality, and the true intent behind such policies.

The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.29.3 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Kara Griffin, Mateo and Aaron Jensen

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Lawyer for megachurch pastor blamed 12-year-old for initiating ‘inappropriate’ sexual conduct

NBC News, By Mike Hixenbaugh and Antonia Hylton, on July 9, 2024

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/robert-morris-gateway-church-lawyer-letters-cindy-clemishire-rcna160661 

The discussion continues to uncover and critique the abhorrent behavior of certain pastors within the church community. This episode highlights the case of Robert Morris, a pastor whose lawyer shockingly accused a 12-year-old child of seducing the pastor, thereby attempting to deflect blame for the pastor's reprehensible actions. This form of victim-blaming is sadly not new; the episode references numerous other cases of clergy abuse, particularly within the Catholic Church, where similar tactics have been used to protect perpetrators rather than victims.

The conversation delves into how churches often teach blind obedience and place clergy in positions of untouchable authority, creating an environment where abuse can thrive unchecked. This dynamic is exemplified by the case of Morris, whose lawyer's disgusting defense reflects a broader issue within church culture. The panelists discuss how the rhetoric and behavior of abusers are often minimized or euphemized, with terms like "moral failure" used instead of calling out abuse for what it is. This language shift allows abusers to evade full accountability and often results in their continued presence in positions of power.

Moreover, the discussion touches on how church leaders frequently fail to fulfill their moral, ethical, and legal responsibilities towards minors in their care. The case of Cindy Clemmy, a victim of Morris's abuse, illustrates the lifelong trauma and struggles faced by survivors. Despite her courage in coming forward, the church's response has been inadequate, with a tendency to blame victims rather than protect them. The episode highlights the systemic issue of churches having insurance specifically for sexual abuse cases, pointing out how normalized and expected such incidents have become within religious institutions.

The panelists express their outrage and call for greater accountability and systemic change to protect vulnerable individuals from such predatory behavior. They emphasize the need for church leaders to take real responsibility and for communities to stop enabling abusers through complicity or silence. The conversation serves as a powerful indictment of the structures that allow such abuses to occur and persist, urging a reevaluation of how churches handle allegations of abuse and the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all congregants, especially children.

The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.29.2 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Kara Griffin, Mateo and Aaron Jensen

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Texas pastor fined after illegally using church donations to boost his city council campaign

Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on JULY 11, 2024

https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/texas-pastor-fined-after-illegally

In an unprecedented move, a Texas pastor and two churches have been fined by the Texas Ethics Commission for violating state election laws, emphasizing the ongoing importance of the separation between religion and government. The pastor was fined $3,500 for using his church to campaign for an elected office, and the two churches were fined for donating money to his campaign. 

This action, published by Hemet Mehta on the Friendly Atheist on July 11, 2024, has sparked significant reactions. Many view it as a necessary consequence for blatant violations of long-standing laws intended to prevent the intertwining of political and religious practices. Commentators have expressed surprise and approval, noting that this enforcement in Texas, a state known for its conservative leanings, is a positive sign that laws are still respected. 

The nominal fine, however, raises questions about its effectiveness as a deterrent. There's a broader concern about the increasing politicization of religious practices in certain communities, and the risks of churches wielding undue influence over political processes. The discussion also touched on the dangerous precedent set by recent Supreme Court decisions that appear to favor historical and traditional values over strict legal precedents, potentially threatening the separation of church and state. 

Examples include the controversial ruling allowing a coach to lead prayers on a football field and Louisiana's law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in schools, which are likely to face judicial scrutiny. Critics argue that stronger regulations and enforcement mechanisms are needed to prevent religious organizations from leveraging their influence in politics, suggesting that more substantial fines or punitive damages might serve as more effective deterrents. 

The debate continues on the best methods to ensure that the wall between church and state remains intact, highlighting the essential role of the electorate in advocating for these boundaries both in government and within their religious communities.

The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.29.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Kara Griffin, Mateo and Aaron Jensen

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Floresville ISD debates random drug testing for middle, high school extracurriculars

San Antonio Express News, By Melissa Manno, on June 24, 2024

https://www.expressnews.com/news/education/article/floresville-isd-considers-random-drug-testing-19508797.php?sid=6628c885020c5168ed00c05

The debate over implementing random drug testing for approximately one hundred students per year in Floresville Independent School District has sparked mixed reactions within the community. The proposed policy aims to curb drug use among students by enforcing punishments such as suspension from extracurricular activities and parking privileges upon testing positive. Parents' responses vary widely, highlighting concerns over invasion of privacy, allocation of funds, and efficacy compared to other community initiatives.

Proponents argue that such measures could deter drug use and identify students needing early intervention through counseling. However, critics, including panelists like Rob and Eli, argue against its punitive nature, questioning its effectiveness and potential harms. They emphasize that punitive measures may deter students from seeking help or disclosing drug use issues, potentially exacerbating rather than solving underlying problems.

The discussion also delves into legal and ethical dimensions, particularly regarding parental consent, students' rights, and the school's role in enforcing such policies. Kelly strongly opposes the policy, citing constitutional concerns, the focus on marijuana over other drugs, and questioning its effectiveness in addressing real issues faced by students.

Overall, while there is recognition of the need for addressing drug use among students, the panelists express reservations about the punitive nature of the proposed policy and suggest alternative approaches emphasizing support, education, and community involvement over enforcement.

The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.28.4 featuring Jimmy Jr., Rob, Eli Slack and Kelley Laughlin

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Oklahoma orders schools to teach the Bible 'immediately'

BBC News, By Bernd Debusmann Jr, on June 29, 2024

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjk35vv2ryjo 

In this segment discussing Oklahoma's recent educational policy changes, the focus is on Ryan Walters, the school superintendent, who has mandated integrating Bible studies into the state's classrooms. This move has sparked widespread debate over its constitutionality and educational implications. Walters argues that understanding the Bible is crucial for grasping the foundation of the United States, which has drawn criticism for potentially marginalizing non-Christian students.

Opposition to Walters' directive has been robust, with organizations like the Interfaith Alliance arguing that true religious freedom includes preventing the imposition of any single religious viewpoint on all students. Critics fear this move could violate the separation of church and state principles enshrined in the Constitution. The controversy has also garnered attention nationally, covered by various news outlets including BBC News.

Comparisons are drawn to similar debates in states like Louisiana, where laws mandating the display of religious texts in schools have raised similar constitutional concerns. The discussion reflects broader tensions between religious freedom, educational neutrality, and the role of government in shaping public education. As legal challenges loom and public opinion remains divided, the future of these policies and their impact on educational diversity and constitutional rights remains uncertain.

The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.28.3 featuring Jimmy Jr., Rob, Eli Slack and Kelley Laughlin

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Religious leader wants to display Indian scriptures in Louisiana public classrooms

WGNO ABC, By Keymonte Avery, on June 24, 2024

https://wgno.com/news/politics/louisiana-politics/religious-leader-wants-to-display-indian-scriptures-in-louisiana-public-classrooms/

Indians seek display of Gita verses along with Ten Commandments in Louisiana schools

 - IndiaPost NewsPaperIndia Post News Service, on June 29, 2024

https://indiapost.com/indians-seek-display-of-gita-verses-along-with-ten-commandments-in-louisiana-schools/

In Louisiana, a contentious new law has stirred debate over the intersection of religion and public education. The law mandates that any classroom receiving state funding must prominently display the Ten Commandments. This requirement has ignited a fierce legal and ideological battle, with proponents arguing for the importance of religious values in education and opponents raising concerns about constitutional violations regarding the separation of church and state.

Adding complexity to the issue, religious leaders, including representatives of the Hindu community such as Rajan Zed, have entered the fray. They have offered to fund displays of their own sacred texts, like the Bhagavad Gita, alongside the Ten Commandments. This gesture is seen as both a challenge to the law's perceived Christian favoritism and a call for broader religious inclusivity within educational settings.

Critics of the law, including some Christian leaders like Reverend Jeff Sims, are also vocal. They argue that while promoting religious values can be beneficial, mandating specific religious texts in publicly funded classrooms crosses a constitutional line. Their concerns extend to the potential for government endorsement of a particular religion, which could lead to legal challenges that might ultimately reach the Supreme Court.

The situation in Louisiana reflects ongoing national debates over the appropriate role of religion in public institutions, especially in educational contexts supported by taxpayer funds. It raises fundamental questions about religious freedom, government neutrality in matters of faith, and the boundaries set by the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. As legal challenges and public opinions evolve, the outcome in Louisiana could have broader implications for similar laws and policies across the United States, shaping the future landscape of religious expression in public education.

The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.28.2 featuring Jimmy Jr., Rob, Eli Slack and Kelley Laughlin

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.