ACLJ Chief Counsel to Speak at Air Force Academy

Over the weekend, Ive been preparing for a presentation before the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs.  Over the past several years, there have been a number of issues concerning the role of religion in the context of the Air Force Academy.  I have prepared a presentation to the Air Force Academy which will take place on Tuesday.  The Academy has asked for a debate format between me and Michael Weinstein.  Mr. Weinstein is an Air Force Academy graduate and runs an organization called the Military Religious Freedom Foundation.  We will be discussing the role of religion at our military academies. 

You may remember that over the last year, the Air Force has promoted several regulations concerning religious freedom in the military.  While we oppose any type of coercive practices from taking place in any context, whether in the military or in private life, the Free Exercise Clause does protect our individual beliefs and practices.  The purpose of my attendance at this event is to present an approach to the issue of religious faith in the military that is based on Supreme Court precedent and practical application. 

This promises to be an important debate and discussion, and I will bring a full report on Wednesday.