Freedom from Religion

Amicus Curiae brief for “Locke v. Davey”

Esteemed Justices of the Court, I represent the American Organization for a Secular Government. I would like to express our society’s opinion on the case Locke v. Davey, regarding scholarship funds for students majoring in theology and intending to become a minister, pastor, priest, or other religious position.

It is our opinion that these persons who openly declare a proposed career in a non-academic or research-based religious field ought to be barred from receiving government-supported aid in their endeavors. This is not to say that these individuals should not receive need-based financial assistance from the government should they qualify, but to fund students who intend to establish a religion o’er this land is to in essence, establish a religion o’er this land. It cannot be argued that this kind of scholarship funding for these students would respect the atheistic, agnostic, or non-religious groups that America has in plenty. Though they may not be the majority, it is the duty of the government to protect the rights of the minority from the tyranny of the majority. Thusly, we reached our conclusion urging the court to support Mr. Locke and the government of the state of Washington, in their carefully-considered and fair requirements for the state’s Promise Scholarship. To openly support these persons who wish to establish a religion with federal money is to, following the money trail, establish a religion, and we cannot violate our sacred 1^st Amendment rights. Thank you, and I do hope you will see things as we of the AOSG have come to.