re: #401 Killgore Trout

I’m opposed to the ruling as well but I don’t feel the need to wildly mischaracterize what the ruling is about. Yes, there are potential problems with it and it is open to abuse but claims that government officials can now mandate private citizens publically recite a specific prayer is nonsense. There are already protections for freedom of religion and discrimination. Anyone forced to pray or discriminated against on religious grounds will win a nice court judgment. Yesterday’s court ruling hasn’t changed that.

Here’s how it works in real life.
Local meetings in my county start with a very lengthy prayer (it can go on for many minutes) that often includes repeated references to “Lord Jesus” and asking his guidance during deliberations and decisions. And there’s a huge replica of the Ten Commandments tablets hanging on the wall.
Those attending the meeting MUST stand with clasped hands and bowed heads, and say “Amen” at the end. If you do NOT do this, you will NOT be recognized to speak during public comment or, if you are appearing to request an action, it will be tabled for “further investigation” or “later discussion”.
Welcome to tiny town intolerant America.