The Zionist Organization of America has issued a statement on the bill proposed by Senator Arlen Specter (D-PA) and Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA) to amend Title VI of the Civil Rights act to include religious minorities. The statement contains considerable background information that helps explain the reasoning.
http://www.zoa.org/sitedocuments/pressrelease_view.asp?pressreleaseID=1937
The way I see it, it is quite useful to include religions especially within the Office of Civil Rights of the Dept. of Education, which has not recognized Jews as a religion.
Today in the US, there are two religious groups that have an interest in this issue; Jews and Muslims. It should work to both their benefit.
Given the current framework of Title VI, its not a horrendous amendment. But the framework is wrong. Every time some new prejudice presents itself, we will rush to add whatever demographic is on the receiving end of the prejudice to the list of protected categories.
ReplyDeleteHow about, intimidation of those exercising their right to freedom of association, on any basis, will not be tolerated?
How about, infringing on any student's right to the peaceful and quiet enjoyment of the campus will result in arrest, suspension, and termination?
Keep in mind, I do not have a right to suppress your free speech because I find it offensive. I have a right to offend you right back.
"How about, infringing on any student's right to the peaceful and quiet enjoyment of the campus will result in arrest, suspension, and termination?"
ReplyDeleteBingo.