1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to House Bill 486, known as the Charlie Kirk American Heritage Act, which has recently passed the Ohio House and is now under consideration in the Senate. This bill, which would allow public schools and universities to teach about the positive impacts of Judeo-Christian religion on American history, is a dangerous step towards eroding the crucial separation of church and state in our educational institutions. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution explicitly prohibits the establishment of religion by the government. This principle has long been interpreted to mean that public schools should remain neutral on matters of faith. By singling out Judeo-Christian religion for positive portrayal in curriculum, HB 486 threatens this neutrality and opens the door to potential discrimination against students of other faiths or no faith at all. While understanding the historical role of religion is important, it must be taught objectively and inclusively, covering a wide range of belief systems that have shaped our nation. This bill, however, appears to privilege one religious tradition over others, which could lead to a slippery slope where other specific religious views are promoted in our public schools. The implications of this bill are far-reaching. It could create an environment where students feel pressured to conform to certain religious beliefs to succeed academically. Moreover, it may lead to the exclusion or misrepresentation of other significant cultural and philosophical influences on American history. I urge you to vote against the Charlie Kirk American Heritage Act when it comes before the Senate. Instead, I ask that you support comprehensive, unbiased education that respects the diverse beliefs of all Ohioans and upholds the constitutional principle of separation of church and state. Our public education system must remain a place where all students, regardless of their religious background, feel welcome and respected. The strength of our democracy relies on maintaining secular public institutions. Please stand firm in protecting the religious neutrality of our schools and the constitutional rights of all Ohio students.