Establishment Clause Research Paper

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Research Paper The Establishment Clause protects the religious rights of citizens and their practices as long as their practices don’t interfere with government interests (First Amendment and Religion).These interests would include illegal activity and any activity that may seem threatening to the people and the government. Thomas Jefferson, the third United States President established the term “wall of separation between church and state” (Jefferson 's Letter to the Danbury Baptists the Final Letter, as Sent). He wanted to ensure the right of religious freedom for every citizen, thus believing this was the best way to unify the country by pursuing the Constitution. The founding fathers believed the best way to form a strong government and …show more content…
With such great diversity, people come from all over the world to America to have a better life. This better life should not include their beliefs being stripped away and replaced by an alien religion along with their culture and beliefs being suppressed. Many students have felt the dominance of Christianity in public schools even though it is not enforced; it is still present in their everyday lives. For example, pledging to the flag of the United States “under god” shows the Christian belief in one god, while different religions may believe in more than one god or none at all(40). Even though students are allowed to refuse to pledge to the flag, they are still in a school environment that contributes to a religious pledge …show more content…
Santa Fe Independent School District v. Doe (2000) a student said a prayer over the loud speaker before a football game but many argued it is unconstitutional since it is a public school. The court ruled that since it is a government endorsed school it is not allowed to have someone lead a prayer before a game (Separation of Church and State.) Students may also not create banners that promote religious activity or promote religion to the school or the audience during public games. The coaches may not lead a prayer with the team if employed by the public school because they would be a government paid authority that promotes

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