Religion and Beliefs

Religious Freedom is a fundamental right that is guaranteed by the First Amendment. You not only have the right to believe (or not believe), but also the right to express religious beliefs. The ACLU has long defended the right of Americans who wish to practice their religion, or practice no religion at all. Whether you practice in a church, a synagogue, a mosque, or wherever you choose, the ACLU of Kansas and Western Missouri defends your right to display religious symbols or construct religious buildings.

No country has as much religious expression as the United States. Through religious books, magazines, newspapers, radio and TV- the US has more religious diversity than any place on earth. However, the ACLU strongly objects to the government promotion of religious symbols or activites. The United States government cannot favor one relgion over another. The first amendment of the Constitution states:

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging thefreedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the the government for a redressof grievances.

Throughout the 50 year history of the ACLU of Kansas and Western Missouri we have stood up for the free exercise of religious practicies and worked against any government sponsored religion through litigation and advocacy.