Recent News & Columns
Here are recent columns and news items from the Baptist Joint Committee. Visit our blog and read our monthly magazine, Report from the Capital, to stay current on all religious liberty news. You can also read our press releases online.
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Cherilyn Crowe
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Ohio law allows student athletes to compete with hijabs and other religious apparel
A new law in Ohio guarantees the right of students who participate in athletics to wear religious apparel during competition without the need to obtain a waiver or otherwise receive permission in advance.
Pentagon asks Supreme Court to lift injunction barring vaccine mandate for military personnel, plus developments in other vaccine mandate cases
While the number of COVID-19 cases appear to be declining across the country and restrictions are being lifted, a number of lawsuits over enforcing vaccine mandates against a religious objector continue to work their way through our court systems.
How the war on Ukraine impacts religious liberty
Among the multitude of tragedies unfolding in Ukraine as a result of Russia’s invasion is the increased threat to religious liberty in Ukraine if subject to Russian rule.
It’s Public Schools Week! Public education needs our support now more than ever
Supporting a robust public education system is an incredibly important component of maintaining faith freedom for all.
Oklahoma bill would penalize teachers $10,000 for contradicting student religious beliefs
A controversial bill proposed in the Oklahoma state senate would make public school personnel – including teachers – personally liable for promoting positions in opposition to a student’s closely held religious beliefs.
Missouri governor suggests a religious test for state office, Ohio Senate candidate calls church-state separation a “myth”
Those of us who believe in faith freedom for all call out even indirect suggestions that a public servant is disqualified because of religious views.
New report details significant role of Christian nationalism in January 6 attack on the Capitol
An essential new report issued jointly by BJC and the Freedom From Religion Foundation provides a comprehensive look at the way Christian nationalism motivated and permeated the January 6, 2021, insurrection by documenting and examining the imagery, prayers, and other statements of the rioters and riot organizers.
Report on Christian nationalism and the January 6 insurrection
Read the most complete accounting to date of how Christian nationalism contributed to the events leading up to January 6 and the day of the attack itself.
Appeals Court affirms right of inmate under RLUIPA to possess scented oil for daily prayers
The 9th Circuit ruled in favor of a Nevada state prisoner seeking to use scented oils while praying in accordance with his religious beliefs.
Supreme Court hears argument in case involving request to fly Christian flag at Boston City Hall
This week the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral argument in Shurtleff v. Boston, a lawsuit challenging the city of Boston’s refusal to temporarily fly the Christian flag alongside the United States flag and Massachusetts state flag at its city hall.