Freedom of Religion: What the Constitution Says

The Constitution of The United States guarantees everyone the right to the freedom of expression.

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or of the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
-United States Constitution

The 14th amendment also protects these rights and doesn't allow any state to withhold any individuals rights to the freedom of expression. The Bill of Rights also protects a persons right to religious liberty.

The Establishment Clause also says that there is a wall of separation between church and state. Almost all contributions and property of sects of religion are free from taxation so it is clear that religion isn't an enemy of the government. Public officials take oaths that include God's name. The nations anthem includes God's name, and this country was built by people who had strong ties with religion.

Because of many court cases spanning across the twentieth century, it has become unlawful for public schools to promote religious exercises. BUT, this does not mean that schools cannot study the Bible because the Bible has literary and historical aspects that are important. Individuals also have the right to pray however they want to while in school.

Displays of celebrations around holiday seasons are allowed but in 1989 a manger seen was erected outside of a county courthouse that became unlawful and was in violation of the 1st and 14th amendments. There as a large display of the birth of Jesus on the steps of the building which included a banner that read "Glory to God in the Highest."

The Free Exercise Clause gives a person the right to believe whatever he or she wants to believe in matters of religion. It is a constitutional right therefore no government can try and violate that right. It is unlawful to act in certain ways though. People do not have the right to engage in criminal activity, offend public morals, or threat the safety of the community. Polygamy is considered unlawful.

Amish children cannot be forced to go to school after eight grade. The Air Force can deny an orthodox Jew the right to wear a skull cap. Religious groups must have a permit to hold parades on public streets and children must be following child labor laws when selling religious material. The government also has the right to let private companies cut down trees and build roads in forests that Native Americans use for religious purposes, even if it is on burial grounds.