DeVos: Students do not forfeit their free exercise of religion when they are at school

(From Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos)

For the first time in more than 15 years, we took action to protect constitutionally protected prayer in schools. And where students’ rights are violated, we now make clear that the law requires states to establish a clear process for students, parents, and teachers to report those violations.

We also proposed new rules that protect all students’ First Amendment rights, including their right to organize faith-based groups on campus however they see fit.

We also level the playing field between religious and non-religious organizations competing for federal grants. 

 

Too many misinterpret a “separation of church and state” as an invitation for government to separate people from their faith. In reality, the First Amendment doesn’t exist to protect us from religion. It exists to protect religion from government.

The First Amendment affirms our “free exercise” of religion. And we don’t forfeit that “first freedom” to anyone or in any place—especially in public schools.

This Administration is—and always will be—committed to ensuring all believers have the freedom to learn, to pursue their passions, to use their talents, and to live in accordance with their faith.

To learn more about the actions taken this week, click here.