The United States has a complicated history when it comes to religion, despite its founders having strong ties to the religions of their forefathers.  When the first settlers came to what is now known as New England, they did so in part in an attempt to be free from religious persecution.  The Puritans, Huguenots, Mennonites, Read More

Whenever there is a tragedy where innocent civilians are harmed, the first question that is usually asked is, “Why?” When that answer is tied to religion, it is fodder for many who wish nothing more than to promote their religion over another. It is at these times that it is important to consider the dueling Read More

With the recent tragedy in Oregon, Americans are reminded yet again of the dangerous power of religious conviction. News reports of the incident informed us that the shooter allegedly linked his killings to whether the victims were Christian. This and other incidents around the world lead many to believe that violence and religion are different Read More

In a lawsuit that was filed over the summer, a religious group in Kentucky is claiming that the State owes it money that it had originally promised, but then rescinded. The questions that will be decided during the litigation will call into question one of the oldest disputes in our country’s history: Where is the Read More

It is an unfortunate part of American history that has inexorably linked religious institutions with actions caused by bigoted hatred.  What history teaches us is that whenever someone with hate in their heart wants to send a message, they typically do so with a violent act such as what recently happened in South Carolina.  Congregations Read More

As another Halloween comes and goes, we are reminded that what was once a holiday for children’s parties and trick-or-treating has become a multi-million-dollar industry focused on adult costumes and theme parties for one night of make-believe intrigue.  It is also a time of great excitement for many college students, as Halloween provides a brief Read More

Understanding the legal process may be seen by some as within the sole confines of a lawyer’s job, and that they as laypersons in the legal field are on a ‘need to know’ basis.  It might be helpful, though, to be able to know what happens to the majority of lawsuits that are filed in Read More

Ever since the Supreme Court’s decision came down in favor of gay marriage (which can now be included fully in the more traditional word ‘marriage’), the news has been full of stories of individuals practicing their religion in very public ways.  While attaching justification phrases similar to “protecting religion,” “exercising a right,” or “defending against Read More

The difference between a religious accommodation in the workplace, and the principles of religious freedom as protected by the U.S. Constitution are often lost on many individuals who confuse the two ideas.  It is important to be able to distinguish between these two principles before entering into any dialogue in the workplace. Religious Accommodations in Read More

Recently, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a three-judge panel decision after reviewing the case en banc.  The case overturned a ban on a very controversial film that had been released on YouTube.  Without going into specifics of the film, other than to say that those who have viewed it have stated that it Read More