Book banning is on the rise.
It began in school libraries, where concerned parents argued that some books – particularly those featuring LGBTQ+ characters or themes – weren’t suitable for children to be reading. Some activists cited their religious views to express opposition to certain written content.
But things didn’t stop there.
The national book banning crusade is no longer confined to schools – it's now expanding to public libraries, too.
In other words: the movement to ban certain books for their perceived offensive content has extended beyond regulating younger generations’ reading material, it’s now affecting anyone who walks into a library.
Critics say this amounts to a war on books in America.
Startling Increase in Book Restrictions
So, where do things stand right now? New reports from organizations like the American Library Association (ALA) and PEN America are indicating a sharp rise in efforts to ban books.
The ALA has recorded that nearly half of the book challenges within this year’s first eight months occurred in public libraries, leaping from 16% in the same timeframe the previous year. The notable detail here is that many of the books under fire are by or about individuals of color or members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Deborah Caldwell-Stone, the Director of the ALA’s Office for Intellectual Freedom, expressed her concern, stating, “Initially, we were told that these books didn’t belong in school libraries and those who wish to read them could visit a public library. Now, the same groups are targeting public libraries and the same books, essentially limiting everyone's choice to read them.”
Biggest Culprits: Florida and Texas
The states that seem to be leading this surge in book removals are Florida and Texas, with Florida having removed more than 1,400 books, surpassing even Texas in the number of removals. It is also suspected that many books removed from library shelves are going unnoticed and unreported.
While those two states may be the leaders, this movement is playing out in other places, too – and some folks are going beyond just bans.
For example, in a shocking display, politicians in Missouri recently held a publicity event where they turned flamethrowers on a stack of boxes that were reportedly intended to represent offensive books:
Fighting Back Against Bans
However, there is a significant amount of pushback against these restrictions. Legal battles are ensuing in various states, including Arkansas and Florida, opposing the newly instituted laws affecting book availability.
Opponents of the bans say that ample access to all types of reading material is a bedrock principle of a free and fair society. Banning books – or even burning them – flies in the face of free speech and free expression, two key components of American life.
Where Do We Go From Here?
The debate around book banning is not a new phenomenon, but it has certainly become a more contentious and divisive issue recently, in part due to pressure from faith and parent groups.
As a way to find common ground and avoid outright bans, some people are advocating for a rating system for books similar to the one that exists for movies and video games.
Among them is Brooke Stephens of Utah Parents United, who notes that “the privacy of the written word makes people perceive it differently than a movie in a classroom. But these books would likely not be read aloud in a classroom due to their inappropriate content.”
Others say compromise isn’t an option. Their position is that all books should be freely accessible, regardless of their contents.
The concern is that due to potential backlash, libraries may simply stop stocking certain books.
“The way it’s going to begin to manifest may look different,” said Kasey Meehan, the lead author of PEN’s report. “We’ll begin to see this chilled atmosphere play out in different ways, either through quietly removing books, or not bringing books in, in the first place.
Where do you stand?
198 comments
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Bishop William Dusenberry, DD
As the Christian God, demanded Eve (the first non-Christian female to ever exist) to do, some 6000 years, or so, ago — “to not eat, from the tree of knowledge” (and, FYI, the Christian God used a tree, as a metaphor for a book, because books are now made from trees) because the Christian God already knew, that having even a tidbit of knowledge, would eventually enable mankind, to reasonably reach the conclusion, that mankind didn’t need a Christian God anymore (as per,Nietzsche’s God is dead). And recently the GOP/MAGA’ers started to realize the same thing. Those with the most knowledge (who ate the most forbidden apples) were those least likely to support GOP candidates,
“Burn the books, so everyone can enter the Christian Heaven”, should become the GOP’s rallying call.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
Oh please. I have to respond to your attack on GOP. I support Trump. I don't believe in banning books. I just don't believe all books should be accessible to children when thete is an agenda to pollute their minds and the Bible doesn't pollute anyone's mind. Sure hasn't mine. I just know good literature when I read it or see it. Hitler's Mein Kampf is horrible but should be read by anyone who sees Hitler's genocidal maniacal racist beliefs as dangerous to mankind. Marxist writings also fall into that category. But I know that you like to attack Christians in a organization that supposedly promotes respect towards all religious beliefs, including atheists. That one I don't understand. But, I question this organization. Theu don't really promote respect for other belief systems because they keep you in here and many others as well. So I condemn this organization as another media group who hates believers and promotes the non believers ot anyone willing to ban Judeo Christian culture. So please go trim the hair on your dog's behind.
And it was longer then 6000 years for Adam and Eve's appearance on the scene. If you read those texts carefully you would realize it speaks in a plural sense. It means common humanity. That means there may have been one couple in every existing fertile crescent since humanity more likely appeared in each crescent. I don't put God's mind in a box. But, you wouldn't understand that either because you have a Veil over your eyes. And you aren't capable of having the Holy Spirit to enlighten you because you've blocked any possibilities of that happening.
You see the world in black and white with no gray in between.-
Bridget Kielas-Fecyk
So you believe that Mein Kampf is good for grade schools, but a book of a little boy wearing an orange dress and pretending to be a dancer is "pornography" got it. And books where a little kid has two moms, or two dads, and they are living a good, happy, normal life is "porn" and should be banned eh? Good to know where your priorities are.
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Dr. Zerpersande, NSC
Excellent response
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Elizabeth Jane Erbe Wilcox
One of our school districts banned the Bible due to its contents of rape, murder, lewd behavior, etc.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
So you don't put God in a box - you just put everyone else in a box.
Whatever makes you feel validated.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
So how can I put everyone in a box if they don't believe in God. You.put your foot in your own mouth.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Yet another religious magic spell.
Just like you putting everybody else in your box.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
You know Kenneth you really make yourself out to be av complete fool.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
How so?
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Bond Wright
Mr. Keith Eash: Saying/thinking to someone "go trim the hair on your dog's behind" is nasty, twisted and sour. And, needless to say, does not belong in any democratic discourse. I don't think Jesus would say that to anyone.... I can just picture it: Here's Jesus walking among the multitudes, carrying a lovely bouquet of flowers with bluebirds hovering above his head and he says: " Love one another". Then someone like you runs up to him and says: Go trim the hair on your dog's behind". You gave up your legitimacy with that comment/perspective. You need to work on your consciousness. I recommend Ken Kesey's book "Handbook to Higher Consciousness". Sincerely wishing you "good luck" with un-twisting your mind and...your heart.
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ServantOfJudgement
Bond,
Actually God has quite the sense of humor, especially when he wants to humiliate a proud arrogant man. He has indeed made harsher jokes than shaving a dog's butt. It surprised me quite a bit to learn God has a gloriously fun and funny side to him.
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Bishop William Dusenberry, DD
The noted physicist Ernest Haeckel, bestselling book “The Riddle of the Universe” —wrote that there is nothing supernatural in the Universe, that the human mind can comprehend.” Are any of my fellow ULC clergy members, intellectually capable enough, to try to prove that Dr. Haeckel doesn’t know what he’s talking about in this regard? We’ll see, if there any more comments after this one, that is.
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ServantOfJudgement
William,
Sounds like Ernest is a hack, a sloppy one at that. Science holds in its hands right now artifacts that are most certainly supernatural. I would absolutely love to tell you what these artifacts are but you wouldn't comprehend them or my words. Plus it's fun to let you think I'm bluffing.
Pure science can not comprehend the supernatural, the hack got that right. Take a Christian scientist like Newton or Kepler though, they sure can comprehend the supernatural all day long brother.
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Bishop William Dusenberry, DD
Hitler, Napoleon, Constantine, Mussolini, DJT, Stalin, and possibly 67% of USA’s congresspersons, didn’t (or don’t) believe in the Christian God, like,y because the Christian God had a son, which would have been impossible without a Mrs. God.
Virgin Mary’s and Holy Ghosts, might work on others, but I myself, abandoned such childhood illusions, about the same time I found my dad, in a Santa outfit.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
I really do feel sorry for you that you can't entertain any possible concept in a faith. Since Judeo -Christiananity is a faith based on historical characters that have been found to exist.
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ServantOfJudgement
I'll add Keith, where they walked and lived has been uncovered. The events they were involved with are being discovered and places that have been destroyed are found destroyed as documented in the bible. Even the satanic temple converted to a public toilet by a good king has been unearthed! They found the friggin toilet temple! It's awesome!
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Dr. Zerpersande, NSC
Buffalo chips
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ServantOfJudgement
William,
You've just put yourself in the same category as the most notorious mass murderers know to modern man.
I'm good friends with a guy that can't impregnate women but his wife has 3 kids that look just like him. If mankind can impregnate a female without intercourse, why can't our Creator?
Your logic is broken.
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Bishop William Dusenberry, DD
Faith, as Nietzsche pontificated, faith, as an imperative, is a veto against science, a lie, at any price.
Whenever faith is used, it’s supposed to reference something incompatible with either the use of the scientific method, or, one’s power of reason.
And, if the shoe fits, wear it.
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Bishop William Dusenberry, DD
Servantofjudgement.
I agree with you, that there’s no way to ever figure out just how many females, who claimed to be virgins, were ever impregnated by the Holy Ghost. I can tell you, it’s none; because the Holy Ghost no longer exists, he (and, this ghost had to be a he, because the Christian God created him to be a Virgin-impregnator, while at the same time, enabling the impregnantee, to still remain a Virgin.
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ServantOfJudgement
Is not man the master of his own creation William? If I design and construct a machine, do I not Lord over it? Does Microsoft not Lord over their product? Tesla? Ford? If man is master over his own creation which we are, why is such a thing so impossible for God? Does a 68 Chrysler 300 fall into mystery to Mopar once it rolls off the production line? It is a small thing for Chrysler to upgrade their 383 engine to a 440 four barrel carb with posi rear end is it not? So it is with our Creator and his creatures, it is all a small thing to him. His technology is eternity beyond ours as ours is eternity beyond an ant's.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Aren't you the people that say God is love?
Love is letting go.
Perhaps you should try to be a little more Christ-like SOJ.
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Kathy Beverlee Hall
Greetings and Blessing To All,
As a publisher and author, I have the unalienable right to express my thoughts on diverse topics. At my publishing company, we vehemently uphold the legal rights of every individual and categorically denounce any form of discrimination based on race, color, sex, gender profiling, religion, marital status, national or ethnic origin. We welcome writers, authors, and bloggers from all walks of life, and firmly believe in promoting peaceful understanding among all people, following the "Charters of the United Nations in respect to the equal Rights of Man and Women." Anyone can submit your autobiography at our Publishing Company, you'll have the opportunity to confidently preserve and share your personal experiences online. Don't miss out on this chance to educate and inspire others, while also leaving a lasting legacy of your unique story (fees apply). Yet, your book may face some challenges in the political communities and face controversial issues; however we will stand by your rights, as a Publisher.
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to boldly improve the universal passion for exploring new writers. We will give voice to their words and collaborate with our audience, who share our core values. Our goal is to meticulously critique creative stories and feelings that effectively communicate ideas to inform, entertain, inspire, and connect people worldwide. Join us today and discover your inner chi. CHI ORI PUBLISHING COMPANY, LLC. ©
Chief Lady Olori Kathy
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Colleen McAllister
Using this forum to promote your business is a bit tacky. Express your opinion without the advertising, please.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Christianity is a business - a very lucrative, tax exempt business.
Just sayin'.
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Christopher W Patmore
YES
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ServantOfJudgement
Kenneth,
Kathy Beverlee Hall never once said she was Christian, not once. Not one single time. I read it 5 times, never once did she say anything at all about her faith at all, never once.
You replied to her post with, and I'm quoting now: "Christianity is a business - a very lucrative, tax exempt business."
The lady sounds like a flaming liberal, she's one of yours and you bit her face off. Your responses are automatic, they're a reflex that's instantly triggered when you see the letters Ch or something, I don't know.
Dude. What the heck man!?
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
My reply was to Colleen McAllister.
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Bond Wright
I am grateful to get her information. This kind of sharing gives everyone access. Thank you.
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Matthew Mastrogiovanni
Book banners are never the good guys.
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Rev. Dr. Father JJ
ignorance is a strong feature in cristofascist and is on full display here
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Cindy L Edgar
Now everybody wonders why the kids don't want to read or learn this is a good example why there is nothing wrong with kids Reading all kinds of books should be knowledgeable of everything not just what Christianity wants stop trying to shelter the children from what they're going to see in the world anyways the books are not going to help and I'm not saying ban anything all right that goes against everything I believe in I will allow my grandkids my kids even myself to read whatever the hell I want to read no it is the Christianity that's trying to make it one belief stop doing that
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Nicholas J Page
Amen to that.I think the USA is going down the drain.Ban this Ban that honestly its beyond a joke Do you not have freedom of speech or is that banned also
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Najah P Tamargo
Minister Najah Tamargo USA
I here all this stuff about "ANTIFA", which is just basically people that are against fascism. I'm against fascism! Everyone one I know with a brain is against fascism. And banning/burning books is straight up FASCISM!!! People have the right to read whatever they want. So, basically these states are promoting fascism! I should know because I live in Florida and fascism is alive and well here due to R. DeDouchebag! Can't wait to move out of here. NOONE will tell me what I can and cannot read, believe, learn, feel, say, etc. And as a side note, when you tell children ".....you can't do that", it just makes them want to do it more. They will find a way. That's just how life is.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
Funny you just showed you don't know a thing about fascism is. Antifa is all about what they stand against. They are a communist organization and are what they proclaim not to be. Same for BLM. They no more care for black lives then a man in the moon. Another gaslighting group. Sad to see how the sheeple in here bleep like goats and sheep.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Thank you for that Fox News report.
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Daniel Gray
Why not, all you do is post left wing myths and claim them as sources.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
I agree - modern conservatism is literally living in a perpetual bubble of victimhood.
Couldn't have said it any clearer myself.
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Daniel Gray
And yet who is the one or are the ones who are in here constantly whining and crying when fact and reality does fit their flavor of the month.
That would be the liberals.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
How so?
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Daniel Gray
All one has to do is look at the conversation between you and Keith and then look at how many times you intentionally bring in politics when you are losing the discussion, or demanding links and when given links try and claim they dont work even though all others are able to use them, need I go on? I can but I doubt the mods would allow me to do a 5 page post showing what I said was true
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Do you not want me to talk about politics DG? Does that bother you?
Because it is apparent that you too kneel at the alter of conservative media daily, then return to spread the gospel.
You don't believe me? Tell us all what your opinion is of CRT, BLM, Antifa, LGBTQ issues, and all the other right-wing boogie-men the talking heads demonize. Then you can read all about your rugged individualist opinions at the Heritage Foundation website, one of the major sources of everything you think.
Then tell me again about how I 'lose' every discussion. You know you won't be able not to.
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Daniel Gray
You cant help yourself, no matter what anyone says you bring in the claims of "rightwing" and others seemingly ignoring the simple fact that most everything if not everything you claim is based on leftwing claims.
And when you cant debate the original posters point without having to bring in items like this it clearly shows that you dont have a leg to stand on
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
So I'm right on the nose.
Aren't you late for a MAGA rally somewhere?
Don't forget to bring your bed sheet, cross, and matches.
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Daniel Gray
No you are clearly wrong, and isnt it funny that you claim I am insulting you and in the very next breath you try to imply that I am a member of the KKK. maybe you should change your name to hypocrite
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
I invite you again to tell us all what your opinion is of CRT, BLM, DEI, civil rights, reparations, and any other equality initiative you wish to discuss. It will then be easy enough to see if your position agrees with the KKK.
Whenever you're ready.
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Daniel Gray
The DOJ has classified the BLM movement as a terrorist group.
CRT has been banned in over 89% oif all colleges and schools from being taught
If it wasnt for the GOP then the civil rights law would have never passed as it was opposed by more Democrats then the ones who supported it according to the Library of Congress.
as for reperations, if you can show me just one person born as a slave (and remember that slavery was ruled illegal in 1864) then yes give them reparations, but before you do that you need to give reparations to the Native Americans FIRST since the European and Spanish and french countries stole land and came close to commiting genocide of specific Native American tribes/clans
So the rest of your claims of "equality" are nothing short of BS.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
First of all I want your sources. Why do you not want to post your sources for your views?
Are you embarrassed by something?
We can go from there.
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Daniel Gray
BLM being classified as a terrorist organization? My source is the US Department of Justice.
As for CRT, I guess you didnt pay much attention to the SCOTUS decision that clearly states race CANNOT be used to deny admission or in consideration of admission and in that decision it clearly states that CRT is NOT a viable subject nor a legal belief to be used. And good lord, even the WaPo says that CRT is being shot down left and right https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/05/26/laws-against-teaching-critical-race-theory-college-are-unconstitutional/ Now they can claim whatever they want but all it is is moans and groans as they cant stop it.Since January 2021, 44 states have introduced bills or taken other steps that would restrict teaching critical race theory or limit how teachers can discuss racism and sexism, according to an Education Week analysis. Eighteen states have imposed these bans and restrictions either through legislation or other avenues https://www.edweek.org/policy-politics/map-where-critical-race-theory-is-under-attack/2021/06
As for the GOP helping to get the Civil rights bill passed, try the US Senate Archives. On May 26, the Senate passed the bill by a 77–19 vote (Democrats 47–16, Republicans 30–2); only Democrat senators representing Southern states voted against it.
No one currently living is responsible for righting the wrongs committed by long dead slave owners. and the last living person who was born a slave DIED in 1940 which means there are no living slaves to pay anything to. As of Apr. 2020, millennials are the largest living adult age group in the United States. Born in 1981 or later, the 72.1 million American millennials would have to go back at least five or six generations to find a slave or slave owner in their lineage, if there were any at all. And you must now tell White Americans whose families arrived after the segregation era just why they must pay for the sins of other people’s ancestors. Instead of solving problems, everyone will fight over money. It will end up only being about the money. This is not how to help a nation reckon with its past. And finally Reparations would be too expensive and difficult to implement. Not all Blacks alive today were descended from slaves so if this was put into effect yoiu would have to require that before they receive any checks, they would have to go clear back in history to actually prove they were descended from slaves. And this would alienate the ones who were not thus causing a rift not only between the taxpayers who had nothing to do with this, but between the ones who are descended and the ones who are not. And as for the Native Americans, you cannot claim that the land you live on right now was not stolen from them so they should be in line first for your mythical reparations. in fact just do a simple google search if you can, and you will find well over 3 MILLION different cites and sources saying the exact same thing https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&q=Spanish+French+and+English+committed+genocide+against+Native+Americans+and+made+slaves+out+of+a+lot+of+them#ip=1
So sorry there is no going on from there as everything I have said is based on fact and there is no way for you to try and refute any of it. So if you want to go on from there its clearly YOU who needs to stop with your rants.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Thank you for your reply DG. If I may take a moment, I want to state for the record how much I appreciate you being the self-appointed but eminently qualified conservative representative on this blog. Propaganda can't spread itself, so when you step up with your spin, misinformation, obfuscation, and party lines, it helps to fill an important void which otherwise would be filled by someone else. Having not directly answered my questions in your reply, you certainly didn't disappoint here. Your answers, however, are not without value. Your wall of words gives a lot to talk about.
To get back on track - I asked what YOUR opinion was of various issues and what source you may have of those opinions, which was to then be compared against the position of the KKK. Let us proceed with what we have.
Issue 1: Black Lives Matter (BLM)
Answer 1: 'BLM is a terrorist organization' (paraphrased)
I asked for your source of this information, and you didn't give one. Googling myself, I can see why. Nowhere is BLM officially listed as a terrorist organization. Not on the FBI website, not on the any terror lists.
I DID find reference to it, however, all over right-wing media. Right-wing media, like you DG, is convinced that BLM is poised to attack all white people at any moment. At a very popular right-wing propaganda source I found this: https://www.heritage.org/progressivism/commentary/the-agenda-black-lives-matter-far-different-the-slogan The implications are clear.
Does DG agree with the KKK?: Evidence says yes. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-52973398
Conclusion 1: It is easy to conclusivley draw the conclusion that DG agrees with the KKK about BLM. DG has also painted a broader picture by echoing the broader right-wing media narrative implying that modern conservatism itself agrees with the KKK about BLM. Additionally, the top domestic terror threat, according to the FBI, is actually white supremacy and white supremacists.
Issue 2: Critical Race Theory (CRT)
Answer 2: 'CRT is groundless' (paraphrased)
Your answer to this was to reference a lot of current conservative backed legal effort to suppress CRT. It's not hard to understand why: https://www.theroot.com/why-white-people-hate-critical-race-theory-explained-1846578811
Does DG agree with the KKK?: Evidence says yes. https://www.newsweek.com/kkk-fliers-critical-race-theory-crt-virignia-loudoun-county-leesburg-1604085
Conclusion 2: It is again readily apparent DG agrees with the KKK, and just as with BLM, his own case against CRT implicates modern conservatism as a whole as prejudiced and racist.
As for the Civil Rights bill of 1964, that is ancient history. This was before the Republicans 'Southern Strategy' of the 50's and 60's basically traded ideological positions among the parties -a reality Republicans to this day deny. The GOP also signed into law the EPA - and conservative SCOTUS judges recently gutted it with their newly invented 'Major Questions Doctrine'. As your own links prove the GOP is doing everything they can to restrict the rights of colored minorities - to which I would add ALL minorities (That's why "Majority Rule" is so important! ;).
That said, what was the Civil Rights act of 1964 other than, basically, forced integration? - And you aren't against integration, right? You aren't racist, right? They basically repealed the Civil Rights Cases of 1883 - which might sound VERY familiar to someone following the law today. In any case, integration is the law of the land, so it seems most people are used to it by now.
So I'm going to say you do not agree with the KKK on civil rights - whatever your position may be.
As for Reparations - what do you suppose the KKK thinks about that? What do you suppose is their justification for their views? Of course we don't have to wonder - you repeated it all perfectly.
Thanks again. Your reply not only illuminates the issues as a whole, but also sheds light on all of modern conservatism, it's fears, it's mechanisms, and it's agenda. I feel this is an important discussion to have.
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Daniel Gray
So you are trying to imply that I have the same beliefs as the KKK. How pathetic. You DO know right that the KKK is an exclusive racist club/group that only WHITES of pure European Ancestry can join. I am a proud member of the Wolf Clan of the Cherokee Nation and can trace my family clear back to the Dawes roll and am clearly listed as a Cherokee on the records of the BIA in DC. YOU would stand a better chance of joining the KKK then I would ever have since they dont accept people like me and would accept you.
This proves the rest of your rant to be very suspicious and more then likely false and made up. How pathetic.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
DG - so sorry to say, but you have been known to say a number of things seemingly just give your argument more weight.
This is the internet. EVERYTHING must be taken with a grain of salt.
That said - I believe you. Please accept my sincere condolences for you being the Cherokee Herschel Walker.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
For your INFO I don't watch FOX NEWS. Sorry to bust your bubble. Do you wear a Burger King Crown? You must really live a freaking boring life.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
So nobody has told you that conservative propaganda is a manufactured perspective that is shared across all right-wing media, differing only in degree to suit the level of conservatism of it's audience?
And of which Fox News is just the symbolic figurehead.
You need to be better informed.
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Daniel Gray
How by listening to your left wing lies and myths and then getting upset when they are proved wrong?
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
When did you prove anything wrong?
So sorry DG, but all you constantly prove is the effectiveness of the right-wing propaganda machine.
The rest is your imagination.
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Daniel Gray
all one has to do is look at your posts when you get links and refuse to go to them and then accuse the poster of not doing it right when everyone else seems to have no trouble, only you
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
https://www.themonastery.org/blog/oklahoma-school-removes-bible-quotes-from-classrooms#comment-333470
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Daniel Gray
And you somehow expect a blog to overturn federal law? or factual data that proves you wrong repeatedly? Are you serious?
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ServantOfJudgement
Keith,
Kenneth thinks all christians watch Fox news. You'll never talk him off that ledge, not ever.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Correction - all conservatives - and conservative Christians - consume right-wing media.
You surprise me SOJ - we've had this discussion at least three times, but you continue to misconstrue what I am telling you.
I guess I shouldn't be surprised at this point.
And I keep pointing out how you continue to repeat right-wing media talking points, and you continue to deny consuming right-wing media. I've pointed out if your friends consume right-wing media then you do too, but you ignored that - and continue to repeat right-wing media talking points.
And, just FYI - AGAIN - Fox News is just the figurehead. As the originator of the 'Rage Inc.' business model, they get that honor. Bring them up to any informed person and they instantly know what you are talking about.
But yes, right-wing media is bigger than Fox News. In fact, in an effort to maintain their popularity Fox News has actually begun to modulate their rage reporting, with mixed results. The most vocal ultra-conservative faction has decided Fox News no longer fills their rage needs - let me explain. You will no doubt instantly forget this too, but other people are reading, so I'll explicate for them.
Right-wing media is a manufacture view designed to consolidate conservatives as a voting block, ensuring conservative politicians continue to be elected so they can effectively grift. Not all conservatives are the same, but right-wing media has solved this problem by originating various levels of stories which the sprawling right-wing news outlets on TV, radio, and the net then divvy up as appropriate.
For example:
Fox News: "Democrats suppress Hunter's laptop"
OAN: "Hunter's laptop key to racist new world order!"
You see, it's the same story, just amped up or down to fit the audience.
What do you want to hear? They have you covered. And then you vote them into office - and the cycle repeats.
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Daniel Gray
See you cant help yourself. It clearly shows when you are losing or have lost the argument when you have to start bringing in politics to your rants.
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Michael Hunt
Pretty rich from the guy who just insults people when he's proved to be wrong or losing an argument.
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Daniel Gray
Yea it is pretty rich when kenny does that.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
You know DG, I'm beginning to suspect you don't like me very much - or the things I say.
I understand.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mind-in-the-machine/201810/how-religious-fundamentalism-hijacks-the-brain
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Daniel Gray
No you have only the claim of "rightwing" completely ignoring the fact that the courts and fact do not agree with you, Sort of like trying to yell fire in a crowded theater.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
The fact is what the courts are doing is all about right-wing politics.
Take abortion for example: https://historynewsnetwork.org/article/181629
Wedge issues are used to consolidate the conservative vote. This is why laws are now being passed that ONLY appeal to the radical right-wing element. Of course when politicians deliver on their 'promises' the majority of the people disagree.
And for a person accusing someone else of being political DG, you do it a LOT.
https://www.themonastery.org/blog/is-there-a-war-on-books-in-america#comment-330857
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Daniel Gray
See what I mean, when the courts prove you wrong you again start going off on a political charged rant instead of trying to debate the merits.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
The merits of misogyny and gestational slavery?
Whenever you're ready DG.
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Daniel Gray
That all comes from YOUR family tree, not mine. Or did you seemingly or intentionally forget or ignore the simple fact that I AM a minority and my people have suffered through racism-genocide-theft of over 1.8 BILLION dollars in payments owed to us by your ancestors https://www.nytimes.com/2003/01/07/us/american-indians-say-documents-show-government-has-cheated-them-out-of-billions.html -broken legal treaties- stealing our children and forcing them to ignore their heritage-and a host of other things.
Do you ever get tired of being shown how terribly wrong you have been all your life?
Now I bet that you will come alone and try yet another historically inaccurate attempt to spin this your way and fail to do even that.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
I agree with you - but I will also point out that every position you support thwarts yours.
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Daniel Gray
And exactly HOW does it do that. I said there should be no reparations for slavery as there isnt one actual person left who was born a slave. And if you still insisted on these, then you should give them to the people whos land your ancestors stole as THEY should be first in line. The rest of breaking a legal and binding contract (treaty) is fact. Stealing our children is fact/ making them forget their native tongue is fact and its all available with a simple google search. Stealing the money from us is fact.
So maybe you can explain just how stating fact is somehow wrong according to you.
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Christopher W Patmore
Antifa IS Black people. It was started by a black man. BLM is also Black people. Started by black people.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
Both founded by LGBTQ1A blacks who care nothing about blacks. You really should do the research of their corruption. They also have ties to Black September and other terrorist groups of Europe. Sorry you believe in them.
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Michael Hunt
I'm sorry you believe in the conservative media's slander of those organizations. I'm very thankful that the Portland anti-fascists have been around to stand up to the hateful and violent conservatives that try and terrorize leftists and minorities.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Conservatives have no idea what the riots were even about - they only care that there was "property damage."
There's conservative and liberal values, right there.
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John W
It's a societal exercise in control, so to speak by groups who share similar mindsets that they should be the ones that dictate what is read, viewed or heard using their views of morality, religion or nationalist beliefs, regardless of the views of others. Though the story is about the United States, similar things happen in other countries as well, not just the United States. I personally am opposed to these narrow minded practices in public forums. Do parents have a right to restrict what their child views/reads or is exposed to, sure. But, what I feel my children should be exposed to doesn't give me the right to dictate to you what I personally think that your child should be exposed to.
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Michele Marie Miles
As an author, I believe in the American right of freedom of the press and free speech. As one who is fond of history, I believe history books should remain to teach us about mistakes of the past and to help remind us what had happened and the struggles of where we came from. Further, it is up to the teachers and, epecially the parents, to teach their children what is right and wrong and how to interpret such things. Finally, as a parent, I urge my children to read the banned books to tell me what all the hub-ub is about and to address any questions they may have when they read something they don't understand, is shocking, or goes against their beliefs and morals. It is a story. True or not, reading is fundamental and this chips away at the essential building blocks of an informed citizen, education, and how to behave like a human being. We can't protect our children from everything and it is us as parents and educators to help the children learn that the world is not exactly what their bubble tells them it is. Let them explore the world and help them seek to understand!
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
To Michele. So what have you written?
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Michele Marie Miles
Just varied small publishing things. Nothing banworthy. My first book was on working from home. Published 2016. Second was a rework of some blog posts I had written to benefit a charity after my sister was diagnosed with cancer and then the last one was a children's book on dog care. :) If you want the titles, I can post them. Not trying to do a shameless plug here to sell my books. haha.
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Tom Herman
Book banning is just wrong, period! People make their choices through education. Information is obtained through education. Censoring information are the tactics of a society that wishes to control all the behavior of others. Banning information is a frist step to authoritarian totalitarian control. It's a tool of fascists and and others who would attempt to dominate. The 2018 movie Fahrenheit 451 needs to be mandatory viewing. What's next, outlawing the teaching of 'learning to read' because someone might think you'll read the "wrong" thing? The greatest generation and baby boomers were taught to make educated choices. The first amendment protects freedom of religion, speech and the press. There are now those who would repeal those rights. At the risk of promoting further controversy, our founding fathers had better insight than those homophobic, misogynistic, supremacist bigots who would ban my ability to obtain the necessary information to make my own educated decisions. There is no acceptable excuse for banning information no matter how controversial someone might think it is.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
To Tom Herman: book banning is directly related to the Alphabet Clowns. Literature such as this should not be in the public library pure and simple. Allow it in institutions of indoctrination (I don't call them institutions of higher learning because they don't teach). I remember plenty of professors who thought they were right and the students knew nothing. In a real class room both the student and teacher should learn from each other. Otherwise, it's indoctrination. I remember I told several in the 80's communism in the West and Eastern European countries would fall. Western republics would succumb to totalitarianism due to influential elitists. That was in the 80's. Some agreed. Most thought I was crazy. I remember one communist who was literally going insane that Hollywood released Independence Day. He thought the movie was obscene, graphic depiction of American injustice and imperialism .I laughed in his face. It was poking fun at all past sci fi movies. I did see an attempt to raise the idea of the American spirit of liberty and individualism and ability to overcome any challenge thrown at us. Anyway my theory came true. And they're all dead thank God. But, certain books just don't belong in public libraries. Colkegevand university libraries yes but not public where kids are introduced to such ideas. It's bad enough they get enough of that exposure through television.which has become highly offensive as well.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
My goodness KASE - you're so positively brimming with directions for how everybody else should live their lives - and it seems to be the choices you choose for yourself, which you 'naturally' assume must apply to everyone else too.
How very conservative of you. How very fascist of you.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
You don't even know what facism is. We're living it now as the Cho Bi Den fraudulent administration tries to establish it with the help of his secret government of Obamanation the Antichrist. The WEF and its elite supporters proposing killing 6 billion people. That's communism/ socialism. Both fascist forms of government. You need a new indoctrination. Your's is getting old.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Yes, KASE, I'm sure I need a ot of things.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mind-in-the-machine/201810/how-religious-fundamentalism-hijacks-the-brain
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
Go to a university library or college and research such books thru interlibrary loan. But, for god'sake leave public and school libraries marked off limits to such disgusting anal ideas.
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Michael Howard Schrader
Who is another parent to tell me what my child can or cannot read? Book banning does just that. If you do not want your child to read a book, be a real parent and explain to your child why they should not read it, but don't tell the rest of us how to parent.
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Merlin
It's a ban on thought. No thought=Control.
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Michael Burton
Dumb and dumber. Fear of free thought, fear of anyhting outside of one's own thinking, fear, fear fear and that bdrives these burners to take radical action. Nothing new really but in this the 21st Century, you would think we were past this type of ignorance.
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Angelic Realms
Graphic porn in kindergarten is not banning books. It's commo. Sense.
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Elizabeth Jane Erbe Wilcox
Then let the librarian know to put specific books on a list of the ones you do not want checked out by your children.
Your idea of pornographic is likely not everyone’s idea of pornographic.
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Rev. MichaelRS
Books talking about boys anally penetrating each other or engaging in oral sex IS porn.
And before you say there are no such books in junior high or elementary school libraries, you just need to look at any of the videos of parents reading passages from those books, found in their school library, at school board meetings. That is undisputable.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
And how many times has that actually happened?
And who took that video and ensured it was put in front of you?
I'm betting PLENTY of steamy hetero books have been mistakenly put on school library shelves before, but funny thing you don't bring those up here - no, you are INSENSED - as intended - and decide to throw an entire minority under the bus.
HYPOCRITES.
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Rev. MichaelRS
You ask how many times it's as it happened that steamy heterosex books I've been put in school libraries ( and we're not talking just "steamy" like a romance novel. we're talking explicit hardcore sex talk in the book).
Well, until somebody can point any of those out, as far as we know it's happened zero times.
And these books, that are touting a variety of sexual practices, were not put there by MISTAKE.
But just so we're clear, it's not only books involving alternate sexual practices that the parents are upset about. It's books involving explicit sex of ANY kind and the attempt of the left to sexualize children. Pornographic books simply do not belong in the school library of any age group.
But yes, books designed to desensitize children to certain sexual practices and encourage them to try them for themselves is a big part of what parents are objecting to.
But before you call people "hypocrites" you need to find a book in a school library the details heterosexual practices between children and a parent's group that says that's okay but the others aren't. Only then will you have your hypocrites.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
I have to hand it to you MRS. You never give up. You never blink. Your confidence is absolute - but that's the point, right? God is on your side. You are righteous and undefeatable. Your enemies can just go to hell.
I admit it - I'm jealous. This explains why certain thinking has lasted so long - because it gives such a great return on investment. Who wouldn't exchange rationality for faith to get undefeatable certainty? What a bargain.
So I Googled the story you're talking about. There are several which are ALL OVER right-wing media. You have to hand it to right-wing media too - they never miss an opportunity. But of course if my cause was as well funded as yours, we wouldn't be having this discussion, would we.
But to the heart of the issue - should children have access to sexually explicit material? Probably not - but I don't know. I had four kids, and I have to tell you, if they didn't care to hear something, they didn't. They were as deaf as you are to the truth of human sexual diversity. And besides that, I was 11 years old when it was mandated that I have "sex ed" - and I had no desire to hear it then, let me tell you. But, that was what was given at the time, so there it is. Funny thing though - I never fathered a child out of wedlock. Anyway, explains a lot, doesn't it? A lot of the same sexual maechanics you are finding so unacceptable was deliverd to me by a teacher in a classroom - and 50 years later we find ourselves at odds about keeping children ignorant of human nature.
But I'm not going to tell you what children should be told. You see, I'm not like you - I don't think I know everything. State and federal law already prohibit the possession or distribution of pornographic material involving children. Additionally, the book publishers all give appropriate ages for readers of it's books. I believe in the human institutions of science and medicine and psychology. I believe in empricism and law and education.
Right-wing media would have you believe that society itself is out to 'groom' your children and turn them gay (or whatever), but right-wing media has a blatant agenda, so I don't trust right-wing media. Looking at the articles I Googled, they were full of "DEI" and "woke" and "diversity" and "CRT" and numerous other right-wing boogy-men scare words designed to elicit exactly what you are doing here.
So congratulations. You are being used like a rented mule. I bet you just can't wait to get out there and vote Republican - as intended. Mission accomplished.
And that I'm not jealous of at all.
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Rev. MichaelRS
Just a couple of quick points here: Yes there are already federal and state laws involved involving pornography regarding children, but that those apply to pictures. There no laws prohibiting written stories about children having sex with each other.
And because you see a story on conservative media does that mean that it's not true?
And yes the Democrats and mainstream media work to suppress Hunter Biden's laptop. That is a fact. And yes 51 former Intel agents signed a false letter regarding Trump and Russia interference of the election. The too is a fact.
So again just because it's reported on conservative media does not mean it's not true. For example, look at the border. You don't see CNN down there or MSNBC reporting on the flood of illegal immigrants that are coming over under this Administration. And then on top of that you have the same individuals in the media saying there's NO evidence that Biden did anything wrong regarding corruption. It's a ridiculous position that does not fool the American people.
Now you can correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm sure your sex ed teacher all those many years ago was not promoting the positive aspects of alternate sexual activity or encouraging you to check it out just to see if you'd like it.
Now I'd like to ask you a couple of question if I may and of course you're obviously free to just not answer them: WHY did you get your ministership here? What precisely are you a minister OF?
Maybe valentry one the other gets automatically answered, but I'm just curious as to the motivation
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
As a matter of fact I was watching CNN the other day - I watch all major news media, you see - and Jake Tapper was making quite a point about the "crisis at the border".
Just because CNN reports on something doesn't mean it's not true, you see.
And I'll let 'Hunters laptop' speak for itself.
I was ordained back in June. My oldest son wanted to use our house as his wedding venue, and somehow the discussion got around to my wife volunteering me to officiate. Everybody thought it was a great idea, and as it turned out the ULC was an easy way to do that.
Not sure why that's relevant, but I don't mind sharing that it was a great wedding and is a memory I will cherish the rest of my life.
But back to the topic - I had quite an education around that time at school, and not just in the classroom, but also the library - yes even back then.
Have you ever read the dictionary? I mean actually looked at what it says, the forward, the notes of lexicology, and such. Very interesting. The big dictionary in our school library even had a joke in it which I've remembered all these years. It went something like this:
"The man tried for many years to have a child with his wife, but in the end found her impregnable."
'Oh that's just a little harmless hetero wordplay', you might say. I suppose.
But that's not all that's in the dictionary. There are all kinds of words in it, like copulation, fornication, felatio, bestiality, sodomy, homosexuality, et al. I understand they even put that book in the library ON PURPOSE! I shudder to think all the things I learned about from that one book.
For someone determined to keep young minds perpetually in the dark, they should definitely keep them away from the dictionary.
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Rev. MichaelRS
I was just curious about your motivation for becoming a "minister"... if there was any spiritual aspect to it versus the simple clinical application of it to be a legal wedding officiant.
I'm sorry but the dictionary thing is kind of a silly argument. Individual words of a language being defined in the academic sense does not encourage their use in any particular way.
If one look up the word "penis" the dictionary is not going to encourage certain acts involving one"s penis by putting forth hypothetical scenarios that result in the good feelings one gets using it in certain ways, whether that be boy to girl or boy to boy or anything of the sort.
The books I'm talking about, and that parents around the country are upset about, are aimed at pubescent and prepubescent children very explicitly touting the joys of same-sex sexual encounters.
If there have ever been books like that in school libraries that in the same explicit ways promote heterosexual encounters, I have never heard them. I assure you the same parents objecting to the other would object to those.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
In a word MRS, that is flat out delusional.
A "penis" is not a sex act, it's a sex organ. Your example is the equivalent of looking up "wrench" and expecting to find directions for rebuilding an engine. But 'homosexuality' and 'felatio' are pretty descriptive, aren't they? There are others too. Bunches.
Ever heard of Goldilocks and the three bears? It features a Mama bear, and a papa bear, and a little bear. There it is, bright as day - the heterosexual encounter, codified right into every child's fairy tale.
Heterosexual encounters are endemic. They're EVERYWHERE. I bet even you have one - and you mean to ensure that every child will be a little clone of you, with the same closed-mindedness, the same judgmental attitude, the very same homogenous conformity that you would perpetuate into infinity if you could. Never admit homosexuality exists! If you do the world will spin off its axis! It's MUCH better to live in constant fear and denial! And then people wonder why it took us 150,000 years to stop living in caves.
And let me tell you something about spirit - it isn't bigoted and dogmatic judgment.
You know what I mean.
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Rev. MichaelRS
Oh sure it exists that is why every time the subject is brought up or mentioned or alluded to in the judeo-christian scriptures they have nothing good to say about it.
Therefore what is delusional is believing that those actions are anyway acceptable to God. What was sin approximately 3,450 years ago (when Moses compiled the book of Leviticus) was sin some 2000 years ago (when Jesus was first here) was sin 500 years ago (when Martin Luther stood up against the whore of Babylon) and it is still sin today.
Now, since we live in a free society that is not a theocracy, and I don't want a theocracy, one is free to bend and twists and misinterpret judeo-christian scriptures all they wish and falsely worship all they want, or they are free to live outside them all together. That is their right.
However, they do not have the right to encourage impressionable minds away from the natural and what God has intended.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
But you have the right to impose your religion on anybody you want?
That's your 'authority' - right? The "judeo-christian scriptures".
And that's what our every discussion has been about, and continues to be about - what gives YOU the authority to define what is moral, what is righteous, what is human.
Buffalo chips MRS. You have NO authority here - I have it on high authority that this is not a theocracy, and I will exercise that freedom as long as I am able.
The universe is bigger than you, bigger than your religion, bigger than your God. It makes no difference whatever how desperate you are not to share it.
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Rev. MichaelRS
First off, I am not the one who decides or defines what is moral or not. That was given to us a long time ago through God's Divine Word.
Secondly, I impose nothing on anybody. But I have an obligation under God not to lead others astray and to speak up when others are being led astray.
People have free will, another Divine gift from God. The Word is there and people are free to accept it or reject it as they wish. But there is a result that happens in regards to doing either.
And obviously disagree; there is nothing bigger than God.
But if by saying the universe is bigger than me, my faith, or God that is occupied by many different others then I will agree.
It is further occupied by that entity (you can call it Satan or Lucifer the Dark Force or whatever you like) that is opposed to God and his plan and those that, wittingly or not, serve that entity.
But you are right. In the end I have no authority to compel anybody to serve either one. Whom they choose to serve is totally up to them.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
There it is again.
You just can't let it go MRS. You MUST own the universe! Oh, not you ~of course~ but what YOU believe in IS the ONE AND ONLY TRUTH.
And again I say BUFFALO CHIPS. You see, you keep trying to define the universe and everyone in it - and everyone can see it but you.
No MRS. You can't have it. There is so much more beyond your little worldview, your religion, your GodS - PLURAL.
You believe what you like. So will I. There - see how easy that is? All you have to say is believe as you like WITHOUT the magic spells of judgment and damnation - but honestly, it's quite apparent that's seemingly impossible for you. Soeey about that - but it's not my purview.
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Rev. MichaelRS
We live in a free society where people are free to choose and believe anything they want. As I've said before I do not want a theocracy.
However I have an obligation under my faith to call out errant teachings.
But I'll tell you what; if I'm wrong, when I die I will never know it.
However, if you are wrong, when you die eternity is a long time to think about it under what is reported to be less than ideal conditions.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Ah yes - the 'swatting a fly with a nuclear bomb' gambit.
I heard some people actually fall for that, wasting their one given life on it. Intimidation works - on some.
But I believe like you - more power to you, whatever you want to believe.
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Wilberta M. Berry
When a few people can dictate what other should read which is the anthetsis of a Democracy in which the majority rule, it will a matter of time when the Bible will be banned also. After all the Evangelicals are already saying that Jesus' sermon on the Mound only displayed weakness in him.
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Daniel Gray
We are not a democracy child. We are and have been a republic for over 245+ years
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Wilberta M. Berry
Daniel Gray We are actually a Representative Republic with a Constitution. As a former history professor I am quite aware that we are not a Democracy however that is the way the government has been selling it to the public. So for the sake of not trying to teach a history lesson I just said Democracy since must citizens don't know the difference or understand.
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Daniel Gray
I know and we have quite a few people who believe this ignorant line, and sadly some are professors and politicians.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Yes - you obviously know MUCH more than those who talk the talk OR walk the walk.
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Daniel Gray
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Daniel Gray
No but the founding fathers know far more then you ever will
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
What the founding fathers knew, just like what you know, are centuries out of date.
The world has moved on DG. You insist on living in the past - and it's gotten old.
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Daniel Gray
No I am living in the present and following the same law that we have had for well over 245+ years. You on the other hand are the one that wants to try and change the laws to fit your flavor of the month and then get upset when you claim that the SCOTUS has the right to interpret the law (Article 3 gives them no such authority and neither does the 10th Amendment) and when they interpret it in a way you dont like then you go nutzoid. So sorry but its you that needs to change as nobody is going to take your claims with any sense of credibility
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Michael Hunt
We're a democratic republic, a hybrid of both a pure democracy and a republic, or a representative democracy. In other words, the US is a bit of both. https://www.thoughtco.com/republic-vs-democracy-4169936
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Daniel Gray
Sorry but thats not true in any case
https://blogs.loc.gov/manuscripts/2022/01/a-republic-if-you-can-keep-it-elizabeth-willing-powel-benjamin-franklin-and-the-james-mchenry-journal/
In the aftermath of the violent events at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, one year ago today, Senator Amy Klobuchar and other federal legislators reminded us that we have “a republic,” but only “if you can keep it.” The source of this quotation is a journal kept by James McHenry (1753-1816) while he was a Maryland delegate to the Constitutional Convention. On the page where McHenry records the events of the last day of the convention, September 18, 1787, he wrote: “A lady asked Dr. Franklin Well Doctor what have we got a republic or a monarchy – A republic replied the Doctor if you can keep it.” Then McHenry added: “The Lady here alluded to was Mrs. Powel of Philada.” The journal is at the Manuscript Division of the Library of Congress.
Now since this person was actually at the constitutional convention as a participant, I think that he is a more reliable source then anyone who is alive today
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Michael Hunt
It is true and you would realize that if you actually read the article I provided:
"The following statement is often used to define the United States' system of government: "The United States is a republic, not a democracy.” This statement suggests that the concepts and characteristics of republics and democracies can never coexist in a single form of government. However, this is rarely the case. As in the United States, most republics function as blended “representational democracies” featuring a democracy’s political powers of the majority tempered by a republic’s system of checks and balances enforced by a constitution that protects the minority from the majority."
A republic is a form of democracy, much like a square is also a rectangle and a rhombus.
Additionally, "The term republic can also be attached to not only democratic countries but also to oligarchies, aristocracies, and monarchies in which the head of state is not determined by heredity."
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
You're missing the point Michael. DG just wants to 'own the libs' and has no doubt gotten a lot of mileage out of the conservative propagandist supplied 'It's a Republic not a Democracy CHILD'. Notice the obligatory disparagement, strategically placed to assure no mistaking who the 'adult' is. And they say irony is dead.
Conservatives live for this stuff - but don't believe me. Read his post again.
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Daniel Gray
And people on the left like you constantly whine and cry. Dont believe me, then just go back and read some of your posts.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Here's some whining and crying for you: https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rights
Joyous over your abortion victory? Good thing it doesn't matter what women think, isn't it DG.
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Daniel Gray
What rights? Where in the Constitution does it say that? where in the bill of rights doe it say that? You really need to stop making up lies Kenny
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Did you just call me a liar?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Life,_Liberty_and_the_pursuit_of_Happiness
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Daniel Gray
Yes I actually did and so does the "source" you are trying to use as even Wikipedia clearly states that you are not to use it as a source as it can be changed by whoever edits it. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Wikipedia_is_not_a_reliable_source
next?
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
"What rights? Where in the Constitution does it say that? where in the bill of rights doe it say that? You really need to stop making up lies Kenny"
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."
https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript
Now why would DG lie about me being a liar?
It is a mystery.
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Daniel Gray
Um sorry but your education is clearly lacking. The phrase you mentioned is NOT in the Constitution and never was. It is in the Declaration of Independence. And if its not in the Constitution then its not law of the land as the Constitution is the SUPREME law. and has been since 1787. maybe you should go back to school and this time stay awake?
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Notice how you dance and spin and obfuscate. Your desperation is showing DG.
Go ahead - tell all the good people here that my quote from the Declaration of Independence isn't a founding principle. I want to hear you say it. I want everyone to hear you say it. I want YOU to hear you saying it. Maybe then even you will see your desperation.
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Daniel Gray
I did go back and read it, and found out (not to my surprise) that nothing that was said has any bearing on this)
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Daniel Gray
I did read the article, but you still must explain how this article somehow is more correct then the article from a person who was actually at and a member of the first Constitutional Convention.
So who do we listen to, the person that was actually there or the cubical critters of today who think they know better?
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Michael Hunt
“Great confusion about the words democracy, aristocracy, monarchy...Democracy in my sense, where the whole power of the government in the people, whether exercised by themselves or by representatives, chosen by them either mediately or immediately and legally accountable to them...Consequence, the proposed government a representative democracy...Constitution revocable and alterable by the people. This representative democracy as far as is consistent with its genius has all the features of good government.” Alexander Hamilton, on the Constitution, 1788
Oh look, another founding father who was a member of the Constitutional Convention proposing our government be a representative democracy.
Yes, we are a republic, which is also a democracy!
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Daniel Gray
Nope sorry you cant be a republic and a democracy. And all the founding fathers say we are a republic. So if you want to argue that point then go argue it with them
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
DG - why is it you want to argue so vociferously over things that are long settled and nobody questions?
Go argue with the dictionary.
de·moc·ra·cy [dəˈmäkrəsē] NOUN a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives: "capitalism and democracy are ascendant in the third world"
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Daniel Gray
It has been settled, just not to your liking or your way of looking at it or wanting it to be. I have already posted a link to the diary of one of the people who actually attended the 1st Continental Congress and even he is saying that every one of the people who voted to make the Constitution the supreme law of the land stated that we are a REPUBLIC. Maybe you should go back to school and actually stay awake in History class this time?
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
I sure hope they don't have dictionaries in school.
de·moc·ra·cy [dəˈmäkrəsē] NOUN a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives: "capitalism and democracy are ascendant in the third world"
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Daniel Gray
What would you know about dictionaries or school for that matter.
So take a look and see that this defines what the US is and always has been.
re·pub·lic /rəˈpəblik/ noun noun: republic; plural noun: republics
a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch.
Sounds EXACTLY what we are and do.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
That's exactly what I expect from you DG:
"I'm rubber and you're glue!"
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Lionheart
That is, of course, Wilberta, that the Jesus of the Bible was real. I guess it's possible he was? 🤔
🦁♥️
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Wilberta M. Berry
Lionhart My comment was not about the validity of Jesus. It was an analysis of how banning any book will eventually include the Bible since the Evangelicals are already complaining about the characters in the Bible. We are on a religious forum so I included Jesus of the Bible in my analysis.🤦🏼♀️
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Lionheart
Thanks, Wilberta. 🤗
🦁♥️
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
First of all there is not a single true democracy that exists. Democracy 's opposite is chaos.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Democracy's opposite is fascism - you know, that system of government you keep rooting for.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
Sanderson. If you truly knew me you would realize I'm a monarchist. I believe in the Kingdom of God and Jesus Christ is that King. It has been established on the See of Peter and some day the Antichrust will place himself on that chair and then sit on the Throne when the new temple is built. But Jesus will come to overthrow this satanic false kingdom. Sadly, we see it taking place now. We live in a "Culture of Death" . The last 6 popes excluding Francis have called it out numerous times.
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Daniel Gray
And the system of government that clearly means that you do whatever the government tells you or the ones who think they know best. And it seems that you fall into that category Kenny
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
How so?
Honestly, your stated position is in direct opposition to many views you have expressed - like your belief that our government should be based entirely on Christian principles.
It seems there are two predominant positions in politics these day - those who think people should be able to make decisions for themselves, and those who think they should make decisions for everybody else.
You've made your decision blatantly apparent, even if you can't see it.
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Daniel Gray
So how exactly is anyone supposed to see your imagined claim?
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
With an open mind.
Which explains a lot.
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Thomas Edwin Peterson
It is indeed occuring in Saline county Arkansas. I personally stand behind freedom of speech and religion as well as our freedoms guaranteed by the bill of rights. Yes I'm conservative. I do not vote party line.
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Judith
I do not believe that books with vivid descriptions and drawings of people participating in fellatio are appropriate for children to access. Banning these books from children’s libraries of not equal to book burning. Adults are free to chose what they read no matter what I think of their choices. There are just certain things that children shouldn’t be exposed to especially without their parents consent.
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Wilberto Burgos
All books should be available for all to read if they so choose. No one has the right to decide what anyone else should or shouldn't read. But this is just one of the many, many things that the weak minded power abusers do to guide and force their opinions on others. We all for the most part, have the freedom to choose, or at least we all should have that freedom. Regardless of religion, family, friends or anyone or anything else. This book issue comes from a much larger issue that continues to grow in societies throughout the world. Enough is enough, we, regardless of individual beliefs are all equal from start to finish... Love is love, and hate is hate, no matter how it's disguised.
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Daniel Gray
Nobody is doing that. If a group wants a series of books and the majority does not, then the minority has the right to place the books they want in another building and pay for the upkeep and employees of that building.
We had the same thing sort of happen here. We had a building that was on the outskirts of town that a group bought and then placed all kinds of adult material in it. They had all kinds of protests about it but since it was outside of the city limits (just barely) nothing could be done. Then the property owners all around the building wanted to come into the city so they could get a break on water and sewer costs and property value costs. They petitioned and were admitted. Naturally this also included the adult store. Then it was brought up in a vote that this store was not allowed in the city and had to be shut down. The public voted on it and by 88% they voted that they did not want this anywhere in the city. It was shut down and to this day not one has tried to come back into the city or anywhere near it.
There has been quite a few things that I dont like that the majority has voted yes on. Do I complain about it? Nope because the majority has spoken. People who want books that the majority does not needs to accept that fact and move on
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
People who burn books should be the ones who own them or bury them. The incident in Scripture in the New Testament are magicians & sorcerors who became hoisting and they burnt their books. Nobody told them to. They chose to.
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Dr. Zerpersande, NSC
You just finished stating that we are a republic, not a democracy. Politicians are elected and make the laws. Local governments may have referendums But they will have to adhere to state and federal laws or they will get repealed by higher courts.
So you favor doing this bc it offends you bc of your religious views. Muslims don’t eat pork. In towns we are Muslims are the majority and they just a law into effect that says you can’t sell barbecue?
It offends the religiously delusional sheep. Stephen Frye wants to join the conversation…
“ It’s now very common to hear people say, “I’m rather offended by that”. As if that gives them certain rights. It’s actually nothing more than a whine. “I find that offensive”. It has no meaning; it has no purpose; it has no reason to be respected as a phrase. “I am offended by that.” Well, so f———ing what?”
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Daniel Gray
And I proved same by quoting from someone who actually ATTENDED the convention instead of some cubical critter over 200 years later claiming they know what the attendees stated.
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Dr. Zerpersande, NSC
This is just another example of the rabidly religiously delusional xtians trying to control other people. They get ‘offended’ by the LEGAL actions of other people because these things ‘go against’ the writings of Bronze Age nomadic goat herders. (Sure hope Moses knows his roses.)
And Kim Davis, a country clerk that discriminated against gays in an official capacity seems to have gotten more than a slap on the wrist. Hopefully she’ll soon be unemployed and homeless. Jesus will help her though.
https://youtu.be/Kgei1-qNpyA?si=ndLugabt492ijdxN
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Daniel Gray
She offered to let another clerk do this as is legal in her state, and the couple refused. And sorry for you this has been appealed and the decision will be overturned when it hist the District Court. Its that pesky little 1st Amendment thing
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Dr. Zerpersande, NSC
It has been appealed and ‘will be overturned’? I’m surprised they didn’t look you up under ‘Delusional Religious Soothsayers’ and summarily overturn it without delay.
So she offered to have someone else do it? What is her job title, “Designated Ignorant Religious Bigot”?
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Daniel Gray
And I am surprised that you still insist that she should violate her first amendment rights just because you dont like what she did.
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Michael Hunt
Where in the first amendment does it say you can refuse to do your job as a federal employee? Where in the Bible does it say you can't issue a marriage license to a same-sex couple?
If anything the government would be respecting one religion over the other if they allowed federal employees to deny services to others based on their religious beliefs. There's a reason our county is a secular nation ant it's largely to prevent discrimination of this type.
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Daniel Gray
Ok Mike, read the first and second sentence of the 1st Amendment. It clearly says "Congress make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting its free exercise." So if issuing a SSM certificate is violating her religion she is legally and constitutionally protected in do so as long as she does not stop another clerk from doing it and she didnt, in fact she suggested it. That is strike one.
And it does not say anything in the bible about issuing a marriage certificate as there was no such thing at that time nor were same sex couples tolerated. so only you know why you put this illogical statement in your post strike 2.
And again the 1st Amendment DOES allow people to refuse service based on their religious beliefs. In fact there is a Muslum Flight Attendant for Southwest Air who refuses to push the cart that has alcohol on it as it violates her religious beliefs of never touching same. Southwest Air wanted to reassign her to airport duty and she fought it and won using the 1st Amendment as her defense. So it is used to deny services. Strike 3
hit the showers.
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Rev. Miche'al Yosef Dixon
Jesus paid his and Peter's taxes. Matthew 17:25-27 Jesus saith, "Yes". And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, "What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth legally take custom or taxes? of their own children, or of strangers?" Peter saith unto him, "Of strangers". Jesus saith unto him, "Then are the children not free? Notwithstanding, lest we should offend (sin against) them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them taxes for me and thee." Yet, Christian churches fight to be "tax exempt". Therefore, is not this whole site and blog a sales ad. On the subject at hand as a veteran, minister of Messiah, and an author I support the First Amendment of the United States Constitution that I put my hand on a (KJV) Holy Bible taking my oath of Service in the United States Navy (April 20, 1989) second part: "to protect the Constitution of the United States of America...". First Amendment grants "freedom of press" books by nature come from the press therefore public schools and public libraries are required to maintain ALL printed material acquired in their possession regardless of its offensive status. I was in the public libraries and looked for books that in the 1980s were in Adult sections and now in children's sections. Books such as the Karma Sutra, any H.P. Lovecraft book, any Stephen King book, ect. There were books in the 1980s Bethany World prayer center had burn nights piles of books, records, tapes, ect. This fight isn't new just added new groups.
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Dr. Zerpersande, NSC
Well said. Let people write and read what they want. But the stupidity of this effort is that the kids hear about this big ruckus and wonder about such things. AND IT’S ALL AVAILABLE ON THE INTERNET.
You don’t ‘catch gay’ from reading a book. Or wearing a dress. Or even bring around a gay person. You know when you’re gay. A friend of mine said he knew he was gay at s very young age, I think he said when he was in elementary school. And this was back in the early 80s.
The entire matter is stupid. If this bothers you then you should find a family that wants to adopt kids. Trade your kids for a dog and then shoot the dog.
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Rev. MichaelRS
Conveniently left out of this article is the report on Erindale Secondary School in Ontario, Canada that in a very "1984" or "Fahrenheit 451" move has at the behest of their school board banned all books published prior to 2008 in order to satisfy globalist DEI propaganda.
I'm not posting a link because it's an easily searchable story.
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Elizabeth Jane Erbe Wilcox
Thank god Diversity Equity and Inclusion exists!
What is this “globalist” BS you continue to lamely depend on to defend your sickly point of view?
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
"Globalists" are the standard right-wing economic propaganda whipping boy to distract from the fact that it's right-wing industrialists who have ended pensions and shipped all their jobs overseas. They are a cabal of left-wing supervillains who 'pull all the strings behind the scenes' to make sure you marry a trans person and hang a pride flag on every house, while your neighborhood is overrun by drug addled immigrants and hippies.
"Globalists" is sort of the left-wing secular version of Satan - but everybody knows "Globalists" pray to Satan.
They've been a staple of right-wing media for decades.
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Daniel Gray
How sad kenny that in almost every post instead of you debating or at least trying to debate a subject you cant win, all you do is constantly bring politics into it. You do know that clearly shows you have nothing to add and no leg to stand on and absolutely no knowledge of the subject
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
So your answer is to make it personal instead?
For shame DG.
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Daniel Gray
How can I make it personal when I am quoting exactly what you do?
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Your magic spells are not about me - they are all about you.
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Daniel Gray
So quoting from the law is considered magic spells to you? that explains a lot.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Comment removed by user.
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Daniel Gray
Nope. Its the taxpayer who pays for the libraries and the schools to decide what books are allowed in each since they are paying the bills. If the teachers and the librarians dont seem to like it then find another job.
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Dr. Zerpersande, NSC
Kinda’ like the situation with Jews in the early days of the rise of the Nazi party.
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Daniel Gray
I see you refused to answer why the people paying the bills for the schools and the libraries, should not have the right to say what is in the buildings they are paying for and what their employees should be doing.
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Dr. Zerpersande, NSC
Perhaps because others that also pay taxes might want the books?
Also citizens that are objecting, like you, are religiously delusional. They want the books removed because their Goat Herders Guide to Life says such things shouldn’t exist/be discussed. And the founding fathers made an effort to prevent religiously based actions being imposed upon others. And limiting the opportunity to learn about and consider any topic should not be infringed upon.
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Daniel Gray
You do know right that majority rules? So if the majority of the people dont want the books there then they go. If the minority wants the books then they are free to build their own building and put what they want in it. Nobody is stopping them
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Yes! Might makes right!
Forget morality, integrity, honesty. Who needs those when what they want is control? All that does is bring problems.
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Daniel Gray
SO how is this any different then when you have an election? the majority wins. Or a court decision where the majority of the judges decision is the one that is used. Sorry but your rant here again makes no sense and proves what I have said about you
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
Have you noticed that your every comment has two parts? The first part is your commentary, whether question or statement. The second part is invariably abusive and demeaning.
Can I ask you why you do that? Is it because if you don't you're afraid people won't question my points? Or does it just make you feel better, reassuring you psychologically that you are superior to whoever you are speaking to?
I'm sure you are.
The central issue of your question is justice.
Justice, by definition, is the quality of being fair and reasonable.
So, at one time the people voted for slavery, and slavery was the law of the land, upheld by numerous judges. Did that make it right?
Sure, it had the force of law - but Law, by definition, is a system of rules that people agree to - and ideally ALL the people support fairness and reasonableness. Anything else is NOT fair, NOT reasonable - not JUST - by definition.
You can point to an existing law as circular 'proof' of the correct legality of a position all you want - it does not necessarily make it right - does not necessarily make it JUST.
History does not look kindly on slavery and numerous other issues that at one time were the law of the land - and the truly moral and just are still fighting that fight.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
Might does not make right when the government is immoral, lack of integrity , And dishonest. Cicero, Thomas Aquinas, Albert the Great, Socrates, Plato, and others have argued all government officials must be moral, have integrity and honest. When a man or woman makes or lives a life of immorality, dishonesty and lack of integrity then they will make decisions not best for themselves or their constituents. What they do in private life will influence their public service. The last 50 years of our government has proven that. I would leave Reagan and Trump out of that idea with only minor discrepancies. So I never vote for anyone who just reeks of corruption and surrounded by it.
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Daniel Gray
Majority rules no matter if you like it or not
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
I wish.
https://www.businessinsider.com/the-supreme-court-shows-how-minority-rule-is-a-problem-in-the-us-experts-2022-7
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Daniel Gray
All they are doing is "interpreting" the constitution as you are demanding they be allowed to do even though Article 3 does not allow them this authority and they cannot take it for themselves.
Just got slapped with the reality of your claim being proved wrong yet again
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Timothy Paul. Forrester
Why do they want to ban books on LGBTQ when there allowing gender kids allowed to use a woman bathroom because they feel like a woman when their really a guy and the same for women who feel and dress like a man: These people need to look in their own back yard and see its not now just books but now it's all over the place.
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ServantOfJudgement
If I posted verbatim the perceived offensive content I read in two challenged books in schools on this forum for adults, the kind and wise moderators right here would ban my post. If the moderators here feel the content is too harsh for our adult eyes, we can safely say the moderators here feel the content of these challenged books is too harsh for children's eyes. Rightfully so. Conversely, Biblical content deemed too offensive HAS been posted here verbatim and received a pass from the moderators.
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
So you agree the moderators here are valid arbiters of morality?
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ServantOfJudgement
They(moderators)have rules to follow and seem to be impartial to our debates. I've tested them when I initially joined, they're consistent from what I can tell. If they have a dog in the race they don't show it. We've all complained about getting posts deleted, at least those of us that have high running emotions can get our thoughts deleted and gripe a little bit. The left comforts the left while the right comforts the right about the same thing, censorship. Most return to our posting with an adjusted vocabulary, we accept their rulings of censorship. We comply, you and I.
That's the context of my observation. We each personally accept the censorship of language found in the targeted books we're talking about here on this site. If we all accept such censorship to maintain civility we should be able to logically afford that same wisdom we all live by to our children.
Dare we say that we adults cannot see or say the word c**t but our children can? Does such a concept not trigger an alarm in our minds?-
Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
I agree with much you say - but, as usual, there is a hole in your perspective - a hole I've also noticed in right-wing media, left intentionally because so much of their propaganda depends on exploiting that hole - and that is the importance of context.
The ULC blog is a religious commentary. Your 'two challenged books in schools for adults' is outside of this context, while the biblical content IS relevant to our interests and our investigations, whatever it is. The moderators, conscious of this criterion, wisely include and exclude what is relevant.
I agree the moderators do a good job of cultivating productive discussion for this blog - and I don't see any 'children's eyes' here. Outside of this blog their decisions would be out of place and out of order. That's the truth of it - when you consider context.
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Daniel Gray
yet again here you go once more Kenny bringing in politics because you cant stand and debate one on one
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
https://www.themonastery.org/blog/oklahoma-school-removes-bible-quotes-from-classrooms#comment-333470
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Daniel Gray
and yet again, since when does the blogs here overturn the Constitution?
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Kenneth Lafe Eric Sanderson
It's your statement - you tell me.
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Daniel Gray
Its your statement with the link to the blog, so you should be the one trying to tell us exactly why your link should overturn what is said in the Constitution.
Nice try at spinning but massive failure.
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Minister Raymond Butterworth
My opinions for the subject are these; we should be extra cautious of what we allow our children to read. That said, every one over 18 should have the freedom to write and read what ever they wish to. Anyone who may be offended by any of these writings has right to not read it. According to my interpretation of the Bible God supports freedom of choice as well.
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JaZe
Wonder if the Kama Sutra has had a similar ignobil end?
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
Nothing wrong with burning BAD BOOKS. Remember many magivians who became Christians burned their own books in the New Testament. It wasn't a group of religious fanatics. It was a group that saw their own books were evil.
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Michael Hunt
The Nazi's burned a bunch of "bad books" themselves. Who's the arbiter of what is good and bad? If it's your Christian God, you're imposing your religious beliefs on others who may disagree with what the Bible claims is wrong.
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Keith Allen Steele Eash
People who burn books should be the ones who own them or bury them. The incident in Scripture in the New Testament are magicians & sorcerors who became hoisting and they burnt their books. Nobody told them to. They chose to.
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Kenneth Kling
If you want your small innocent children/grandchildren/ niece/nephew or WHATEVER relation to read these books, then by all means buy the books and have at it! ...... Just don't blame people for trying to help the youth grow up and enjoy the simple things of life before becoming a part of a sicko world ......
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Randal Ketner
Removing age-inappropriate books is not "book banning." Godwin's Law is never a good place for debate to go.
Book banning is a Hitler tactic, and low and behold Ron De Facist appears!