Affirmative action is a controversial policy that allows minorities or a historically underprivileged class of citizens increased odds in accomplishing goals that they may not otherwise have the chance to accomplish. Although not a uniquely American idea, the concept of affirmative action gained popularity in the United States in the 1960s as a way to Read More

When the country was first founded after the rebellion of 13 colonies, many argue that the sentiment of the colonies was typically that each newly formed state should be able to control its own destiny while benefiting from the strength gained from a central federal government. The fight for “states’ rights” versus federal oversight has Read More

Just recently, Mariah Walton publicly exclaimed that she plans to prosecute her parents for failing to seek medical care for her when she was a minor. Mariah, now 20, has pulmonary hypertension, and must carry an oxygen tank around with her (when she is not bedridden) so that she can breathe. Mariah alleges that her Read More

In a case that garnered less national attention than other cases that made their way to the U.S. Supreme Court, a small congregation in a suburb of Flagstaff, Arizona received a “win” when the Supreme Court ruling ended in their favor in June of 2015. The decision, though local in origin, may have farther reaching 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

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

What could have been used to open a dialogue over the unique balance of free speech and freedom of religion proffered by the United States Constitution turned violent this past February, when five men opened fire on security guards at a Prophet Muhammad cartoon contest being held in Garland, Texas.  Depicting Muhammad is often seen Read More

In light of recent tragedies across the nation that involve potential terrorist activity, it is mindful to remember that such actions occur regardless of whether a country’s government is capitalist, monarchic or dictatorial.  Jealousy and misguided anger are sometimes unfortunate side effects of the freedoms that our country provides its inhabitants.  What is lamentable, however, Read More