Washington, DC – This week, the D.C. City Council trampled on the religious liberty of Christians in Washington, D.C. The council repealed an exemption in the Human Rights Act that allowed private religious schools to practice their faith pertaining to human sexuality. Additionally, the council banned sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE), violating the fundamental rights of counselors, minors, and parents. Liberty Counsel sent a letter in opposition to Bill 20-803 to every member of the DC City Council.
“This vote will have a severe impact on religious liberty in our nation’s capital,” warned Mat Staver, Founder & Chairman of Liberty Counsel. “Religious schools and church-affiliated schools must now choose whether to obey God or to obey government. In addition, if signed into law by the mayor, the law will trample the First Amendment rights of counselors to provide, and patients to receive, counseling consistent with their religious beliefs.”
“The unfortunate irony here is that this bill was passed in the name of ‘human rights.’ By restricting religious freedom, a fundamental human right, this bill is injurious to human rights and equality. It is my hope that Mayor Gray will refuse to sign this bill into law,” Staver explained.
“Liberty Counsel will continue to stand with the churches, schools, therapists, and families of Washington, D.C., in opposition to this restriction of religious freedom,” Staver concluded.
Liberty Counsel is an international nonprofit, litigation, education, and policy organization dedicated to advancing religious freedom, the sanctity of life, and the family since 1989, by providing pro bono assistance and representation on these and related topics.
