EDITORS' CORNER
“An accurate and historical account of the influence of Judeo-Christian values on the freedom and liberties ingrained in our culture is imperative to reducing ignorance of American history, hate, and violence in our society.”
That is the premise of a new law, HB 1822, that goes into effect in Tennessee on July 1.
Called the Charlie Kirk American Heritage Act, it gives the state’s public professors and K-12 teachers the confidence to teach on Christianity’s large and influential role in the founding of America without fear of being accused of bias or violating the concept of the separation of church and state.
It does not change the curriculum, but under the law educators “may provide instruction on the positive impacts of religion on American history” without fear of reprisal.
The language of the legislation spells out 19 different aspects of the nation’s founding that can be touted, such as: the religious implications of the Mayflower Compact; the appeals to divine power and protection embedded in the Declaration of Independence; George Washington’s farewell address calling religion and morality indispensable supports leading to political prosperity; and the influence of religion on the Constitution.
Assistant House Majority Leader Rep. Mark Cochran, who sponsored the bill, said America “has an incredibly rich history that deserves to be taught accurately and completely.”
“Christian leaders and beliefs were undeniably foundational in the creation of the United States. Tennessee Republicans are committed to giving students the full story. This law provides needed clarity for educators and ensures these significant historical truths can be taught in public schools,” he said in a news release.
JC Bowman, executive director of Professional Educators of Tennessee, told WKRN that he does not expect much to change in Tennessee classrooms, saying the law is more about providing guidance and protection than dramatically changing the curriculum.
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