As if the constant maneuvering by the GOP to impose religious standards weren’t enough, now the Democrats are stepping into the picture. State Democratic leaders in the Georgia General Assembly have proposed legislation, which would authorize the creation of elective courses that would teach the bible in a historical context.
The Democratic sponsors of the bill contend that there is an educational need for these courses, as it will enable students to better understand Shakespeare or the foundations of our democratic government. Is this for real? This is nothing more than a poorly veiled attempt to reintroduce religious education in schools, not unlike the ongoing strategy of the creationists?
Above all, the Democrats argue that this course is not about teaching faith in schools, and they are right, its about pandering to religious conservatives who can’t get it through their heads that public schools are not the place for religious instruction. The Democrats should be commended for taking a page from the GOP playbook, however. James Carville would surely be proud.
Any course that teaches the bible in a public school environment is a state endorsement of religion, no matter how its supporters may define it. If parents are so interested in imparting a Christ centered education for their children why not enroll their children in a private Christian school rather than calling upon the state to assume that responsibility? That’s what responsible parents do.
In this case the left is simply pandering for the votes of traditionally Republican voters in an increasingly Republican state. If successful, look for more such strategies throughout Red States across this country.
http://www.ajc.com/news/content/metro/stories/0119legbible.html
