Essay On Religious Freedom

In the U.S. we are fortunate to live in a country that has a constitution that protects our freedom and rights as human beings. One important piece of the constitution is the first amendment which protects are religious freedom. The right to practice any religion is often taken for granted living here in the United States. We are fortunate that our government does not force a specific type of religion for to practice as citizens of this country. Our country should not be stereotyped to follow one religion, we have many cultures and religions that make up our country. The free exercise clause is an important part of having religious freedom in the United States. It basically states that the government cannot make laws stating what religion we can practice or whom we can worship. This law also grants some exceptions to individuals in the name of religion. It’s important to point out that there are some limits to this freedom, for example you cannot practice a religion that would bring harm to an individual in the name of that religion. …show more content…
Vitale, 1962 is a situation where by parents of students in NY protested against the use of prayer at their school. These prayers were led by teachers and principals who were employees of the state. It was argued and agreed in favor that the government could not delegate or support religious worship activity. The 1st amendment prevents the government from influencing religion in any shape or form, to include prayer.
Wisconsin vs. Yoder case is an example of a controversy involving the free exercise of religion. In this case parents of Amish children refused to send their children to public school past the 8th grade since it was against their religious beliefs. Attending school past 8th grade would have worldly influence on their children and against Amish beliefs. The court ruled in favor of the Amish stating that continuing school past the 8th grade would be in conflict with the way of life for the Amish