I am not one to rant on my Blog. However, I am known to be very opinionated in life. So allow me to pull back the curtain on one of two recent pieces of legislature in my former home state (which I am deeply disturbed to be associated with at this moment) and voice my opinion.
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger of California recently signed into law SB1234 which:
…classifies as "hate speech" any public expression that makes certain favored citizens feel "unwelcome" or "intimidated." Anyone found guilty of using such expressions could face six months in prison and a $25,000 fine.
Homosexuals, transsexuals, women, the homeless and assorted minority groups have been given the authority to decide what constitutes "hate speech." It's all based on their emotional response to a speech, a conversation, a book or article, a poster, a radio broadcast--whatever. If it makes them feel uncomfortable, it's hate speech.1
I find this disturbing because it goes against the absolutes of right and wrong that I value. I find this absurd because it is inconsistent with a culture that shouts and teaches “tolerance at all cost!” yet it will not tolerate someone speaking his or her mind if it offends another. Lastly, I find it ludicrous because there is no way to identify every “minority” group thereby offering them protection from some sort of emotional offense.
As a Bible teacher am I not in the minority? Does this mean I can sue someone who offends me because their doctrine of immorality (based on my values) makes me feel unwelcome? On the other hand, will I have to suppress my doctrine in order to avoid offending them lest I find myself in jail?
It is impossible to capture the complexity of this issue in a few words on a blogsite. It is wise to realize the important aspect of this legislation is more than merely protecting the emotions or rights of a few minority groups. In America, we’re seeing the fruit of a seed was planted more than 20 years ago. It will affect every American citizen regardless of what you believe about absolutes and right and wrong.
I have said before, without absolutes we’re all subject to the relative winds of those with the loudest voice, the most political clout or the most money. But, those who build their lives on the rock-solid absolute foundation of the one and only God through Jesus Christ can withstand the ludicrous ideals of our mislead culture.
1 Read the entire article here. Other articles on this subject may be found at NPN; California Family Council
You can find more intriguing writings like this at http://www.keytofreedom.org/resources.html
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