In this engaging interview, John D. Inazu identifies confident pluralism as the way for us to thrive in connection even when divided by deep differences. Since our differences are not just going to go away, we need to learn to live with others with whom we do not agree. Inazu explains that tolerance, humility, and patience are the foundational…

Heated battles over free speech have erupted on college campuses across the United States in recent months. Some of the most prominent incidents involve efforts by students to prevent public appearances by speakers espousing controversial viewpoints. Efforts to silence offensive speakers on college campuses are not new; in these endeavors, one can…

In this essay Bryan Warnick explores how rights to religious expression should be understood for students in public schools. Warnick frames student religious rights as a debate between the conflicting values associated with the Free Exercise Clause and the values associated with the Establishment Clause of the United States Constitution. He then…

After their dismal performance in election 2008, conservatives are taking stock. As they examine the causes that have driven them into the political wilderness and as they explore paths out, they should also take heart. After all, election 2008 shows that America's constitutional order is working as designed. Indeed, while sorting out their errors…

There continues to be a significant debate as to the most effective means of providing North Carolina's children with the best possible education. The one point upon which a great majority agree is that, despite substantial increases in funding, public education is not meeting the needs of a large proportion of the state's students. This paper…

The problems of formulating a legal definition of religion as used in the U.S. Constitution may be traced through the Supreme Court's interpretation of the word. According to the U.S. Constitution, religious tests cannot be required for any office or public trust under the central government. The Bill of Rights states that the national government…

Reviews the proposed Constitutional amendment regulating voluntary prayer in public schools, and charges that it would undermine precedents ensuring the separation of church and state. Discusses the nature of prayer and the role of the public schools. (JAC)

Analyzes the April 1990 Supreme Court decision that a member of a religion may not challenge, under the First Amendment free exercise clause, a generally applicable criminal law that infringes on a specific religious practice. Discusses political and legal implications for the Native American Church and other minority religions. (SV)

First amendment challenges to the use of mandatory student fees for abortion services have not reached federal courts, and the only pertinent state decision upheld the mandatory fee system. However, recent decisions and historical analysis suggest the court must grant relief to students whose right to free worship is violated. (Author/MSE)

Church and state is discussed in four articles: "Recent Threats to Religious Liberty" (Dean M. Kelley, pp.16-22); "Municipal Church-State Litigation and the Issue of Standing" (Kenneth S. Saladin, pp. 23-25); "Prayer in Public Schools: The Court's Decisions" (Leo Pfeffer, pp. 26-29); and "Religion and Public…

The National PTA holds the position that religion should be dealt with in public schools in an academic, not a devotional way. This article discusses the implications of Supreme Court decisions on religion in the schools and appropriate ways of including religion in the school curriculum. (IAH)

Discusses the implications of the Rosenburger case, in which the Supreme Court held that the University of Virginia violated the constitutional free speech rights of students by refusing to subsidize their Christian magazine. Analyzes potential effects on future funding of student organizational activities. (JPS)

This report addresses civil rights issues that derive from the First Amendment's guarantee of free exercise of religion and prohibition against the establishment of religion. The commission is acting under its legal mandate to study and collect information and to appraise the laws and policies of the federal government with respect to…

Responding to student recitation of the Lord's Prayer at a high school graduation, recounts how religious differences can create difficulties and discomfort for students in public schools. Argues the right of the minority must be protected from a majority who wishes to promote their religious beliefs at taxpayer expense. (DB)

Supreme Court litigation concerning the teaching of evolution in public schools is discussed. Questions regarding the cases for classroom discussion with secondary students are provided. (RM)