The Oregon legislature took one step closer toward ending the ban prohibiting public school teachers from wearing religious attire in the classroom. The Senate voted 21-9 to send the repeal to Governor Kulongoski, who is expected to sign it.
Champions in the Senate called ending the ban a historic step toward religious freedom and non-discrimination in a state that has performed poorly in those arenas in the past. Christian teachers have long been allowed to wear crosses in Oregon public schools, but head scarves and turbans are not permitted.
"If a freedom is allowed for one, should a freedom be allowed for all?" asked Sen. Jason Atkinson, R-Central Point. "That is the leap we are about to make."
The Baptist Joint Committee joined other religious liberty groups in urging the legislature to take this important step. Kudos to state lawmakers for following through, and removing the discriminatory, provision.
