Upholding separation of church and state for democratic rights

The separation between church and state has become increasingly blurred in conservative-led states like Texas. Christian nationalist groups backed by wealthy donors like Tim Dunn and Farris Wilks have pushed legislation that promotes biblical values in public life, from requiring displays of religious texts in schools to restricting reproductive rights based on faith-based views. This erosion of secular governance raises concerns about the intrusion of particular religious ideologies into lawmaking that should apply equally to all citizens. Upholding the constitutional principle of separating church and state is critical to protecting religious freedom and preventing the imposition of one belief system on a pluralistic society. Policymakers should recommit to this foundational tenet to preserve democratic rights and liberties.