1. Chapter 19.2
Freedom of Religion

2. Religion and the Bill of Rights
Alexis de Tocqueville: churches & the genius of the country
Early colonial history and religion
1st & 14th amendments:
Prohibit the establishment of religion
Prohibit any arbitrary interference by government (free exercise of religion)

3. Separation of Church and State
The Establishment Clause: The separation of church and state
Controversial Issues:
Churches are tax-free
Oaths
Beginning government sessions with prayer
National anthem and currency
Emerson v. Board of Education (1947): Public, tax-supported busing of students attending any school in the state, including parochial schools.
Released Time: Public schools must release students from school to attend religious classes.

4. Church and State (Continued)
Prayers and the Bible
Student Religious Groups
Evolution
Seasonal Displays
Chaplains in Congress and the state legislatures
Tax Exemptions
State aid to parochial schools

5. The Lemon Test Lemon v. Kurtzman (1971): The Lemon Test:
The purpose of the aid must be clearly secular, not religious
Its primary effect must neither advance nor inhibit religion
It must avoid an excessive entanglement of government and religion

6. The Free Exercise of Religion
The Free Exercise Clause: The right to believe whatever that person chooses to believe in matters of religion
Restrictions: Cannot violate criminal laws, offend public morals, or threaten the health, welfare, or safety of the community
Polygamy, school vaccination, snakes, “blue laws,” etc.