The disturbing results of a recent poll should cause enormous fear about the future of our nation. I grew up in the 1950’s. I was proud to recite the ‘Pledge of Allegiance’ at the beginning of every school day. When Civics became a class, I understood the intent of our founding fathers and became aware that public servants took an oath to protect the Constitution; it was that important. Reading our nation’s most sacred document gave me a reason to believe that the United States of America was the greatest country in the world.
Because I will always tell the truth, let me begin by admitting that I have no belief in, or use for, organized religion. I fail to understand why an individual finds it necessary to receive instruction from another human being regarding morals and spirituality. I find building edifices to God a waste of time and money; He already gave them to us, they are called ‘forests,’ ‘oceans,’ and ‘meadows.’ I believe that each individual must educate himself and find his own meaning of life and road to happiness.
That said, I believe, as did our forefathers, that the first amendment to the Bill of Rights is the most important part of the Constitution. Sadly, there are those who would abolish this amendment which guarantees our most precious freedoms.
Although Christianity is on the decline in America, especially with millennials, those 18-29, the Christian religious right continues in its efforts to control our government. Some want to establish Christianity as our national religion, in direct violation of the first amendment.
I fear extreme Christianity on the same level that I fear Muslims who have been radicalized. Neither group believes in the teachings of their prophets, and refuse to follow their teaching.
The vast majority of those who call themselves Christians do not believe in Jesus Christ and His instructions to His followers. These ‘Christians’ in name only are judgmental and refuse to practice tolerance and love for all human life, or accept the fact that all men, women, and children are equal in the eyes of God. The first amendment guarantees that all of our nation’s people will have the freedom to worship the religion of their choice. But these extremists disagree with Jesus Christ and our founding fathers.
The initial question offered in this recent poll asked about freedom of religion. A great majority believed that it was our most important right. However, when asked about individual religions, the ugly head of prejudice rose and revealed the greatest danger to our nation today.
Eighty-two percent believed that protecting the rights of Christians was a priority, while only 67 percent believed that the rights of Muslims should be protected. Seventy percent said that Jews must be allowed religious freedom, and only 67 felt the same about Mormons. Those who shun religion, such as myself, stated their belief that all religions must receive equal protection under the law.
An analysis of the poll offered proof that the politics of fear is successful. Republicans, who are courting the Christian religious right to obtain their votes, have repeatedly lied about the ‘dangers’ of same-sex marriage and ISIS. Donald Trump leads this fear-mongering as he continues to claim that all Muslims are terrorists.
Is this the ‘new America?’ If it is, I don’t belong here. I believe in a democratic and free existence. I reject the efforts of those on the right who desire to remake our nation into an oligarchy. Congress has too much power, and is only concerned with special interests; the one-percent who control over 90 percent of our nation’s wealth.
Our corrupt government has already approved legislation which would repeal the 4th, 14th, and 15th amendments. If they succeed in removing the first, the United States of America will no longer exist.
It is obvious that conservatives no longer believe in the words and meaning of the ‘Pledge of Allegiance;’ now they are challenging the law of the land.
Op-Ed
By James Turnage
Photo Courtesy of Ed Uthman
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