Religion and Football Controversy in Southeast Texas Town

Religion in schools has always been a controversial issue in America. The idea of people showing their faith in various ways annoys some individuals, while others love the idea of having a Christian atmosphere in a school setting. Being a Christian, I believe that is is a wonderful idea to have God involved in anyway in a school setting. I believe that it creates a positive, friendly, and uplifting place for everyone. On the other hand others may not agree.... which brings me to the news at hand that has happened this week in a small town in southeast Texas.

In the town of Kountze, football games are often centered around Christianity and the bible. Banners are often created for the football games that "holler the praises of Jesus Christ." This all ended when someone complained to a foundation that fights for the separation of church and state. On Tuesday, September 18, a day after having received a letter from the Freedom From Religion Foundation, the superintendent banned the banners, which resulted in controversy nationwide. A Facebook page was created after the ban occurred named, Support Kountze Kids Faith. As of Thursday, September 20th, it had 35,100 members.

Superintendent of the school, Kevin Weldon, explained to parents who call the 2000 U.S. Supreme Court precedent-setting decision requires religion to be kept out of public schools. Some parents support his decision. Others say they will back their children's First Amendment right to hang the banners and are working with the Liberty Institute. Liberty Institute is a Plano- based nonprofit law firm that says on its website that it is dedicated to "restoring religious liberty across America." Mike Johnson, senior counsel for the Liberty institute, said "It's important and fundamental freedom students have to engage in free speech. They are not asking anyone to believe in Christianity or accept the faith. They are just well wishes."


Link to Article:   http://www.dallasnews.com/news/local-news/20120920-mix-of-bible-verses-football-stirs-controversy-in-southeast-texas-town.ece