Episodes

  • Experts Warn: Project 2025 Could Rewrite the Rules of Public Education

    Experts Warn: Project 2025 Could Rewrite the Rules of Public Education
    Aug 3 2024
    Project 2025 would fundamentally change public education, experts sayThe Hill, By Lexi Lonas, on July 12, 2024

    https://thehill.com/homenews/education/4766919-project-2025-trump-campaign-biden-heritage-foundation-public-education/

    Project 2025 represents a significant conservative push to radically transform U.S. public education, primarily aimed at dismantling existing structures and reorienting educational content and funding. This initiative, developed by the Heritage Foundation and supported by Trump allies, proposes several sweeping changes that could dramatically affect the quality and equity of education.

    The plan includes the elimination of the Federal Department of Education, which would remove the primary federal oversight body responsible for setting educational standards and ensuring equity across states. Critics argue that this move could lead to a severe reduction in federal support for public schools, especially those serving low-income communities, as it plans to dismantle Title I funding, which is crucial for under-resourced schools.

    Additionally, Project 2025 advocates for the privatization of student loans, a move that could limit access to higher education for many students and expose them to predatory lending practices. The restructuring of K-12 funding and curriculum under Project 2025 is seen as an effort to undermine civil rights protections and diversity initiatives, potentially transforming public schools into ideological spaces aligned with specific political or religious viewpoints.

    The initiative's potential impact includes skewed educational content, which might prioritize certain ideologies over a comprehensive and diverse curriculum. This shift could erode academic freedom and limit students' exposure to a broad range of perspectives, potentially stifling critical thinking and intellectual growth.

    Key Points:

    Elimination of the Federal Department of Education: This would remove oversight and support for public education, potentially leading to inequities in funding and educational quality.

    Privatization of Student Loans: This could restrict access to higher education and expose students to harmful lending practices.

    Dismantling Title I Funding: Targeted funding for low-income schools could be cut, exacerbating educational disparities.

    Changes in Curriculum: The plan suggests a shift towards ideologically-driven content, potentially diminishing academic diversity and freedom.

    Criticism: The proposal is viewed by many as a threat to public education, with concerns about increasing division and undermining the foundational principles of equal and comprehensive education.

    The discussion highlights the broader implications of Project 2025, emphasizing how these proposed changes could reshape the U.S. educational landscape and the potential risks involved in such a radical reorientation.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.30.4 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Scott Dickie, "Eli" (Eli Slack) and Jonathan Roudabush

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    22 mins
  • Arizona’s Black History Debate: Erasure or Systemic Oppression

    Arizona’s Black History Debate: Erasure or Systemic Oppression
    Aug 2 2024
    Is Arizona erasing Black history? These leaders say contributions 'systemically oppressed'

    Arizona Republic, By Kaely Monahan Amanda Luberto, on July 9, 2024

    https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/2024/07/08/is-arizona-erasing-black-history/74282912007/

    Arizona, a state with a rich and diverse history, has long seen the stories and contributions of its African American residents underacknowledged or completely erased. Despite the presence of over 318,000 Black residents today, Black history in Arizona is rarely taught in schools, prompting the question: Why isn’t Arizona doing a better job of preserving and sharing its Black history? Arizona’s Black history is a rich and complex tapestry, stretching from the first recorded Black resident in Phoenix, Mary Green, in 1868, to a vibrant community of over 318,000 today. Despite this significant presence, many argue that Arizona’s Black history is often sidelined or completely absent from educational curricula. The conversation delves into the systemic neglect of Black history, exploring why these vital narratives are frequently relegated to the background.

    The discussion underscores a critical issue: despite the substantial Black population in Arizona, historical and institutional records fail to reflect this diversity. Jessica Salo, an archivist at Arizona State University, reveals that only 0 to 2% of archival collections at major institutions like ASU, NAU, and the University of Arizona represent minority groups, including Black, Latinx, Pacific Islanders, and LGBTQ+ communities.

    The panel discussion also touches on broader issues of representation and inclusion. Pastor Warren Stewart’s poignant observation that "you may not be a white supremacist but you're a white standard" speaks to the pervasive issue of the white experience being used as a benchmark, marginalizing other perspectives. This “white standard” influences educational materials and institutional priorities, impacting how different histories are taught and perceived.

    The conversation brings to light how systemic biases in education and archival practices contribute to a lack of representation and understanding of Black history. The panelists emphasize the need for more inclusive teaching and archival practices, recognizing that true progress involves acknowledging and addressing these gaps in representation. They advocate for a more equitable approach to documenting and teaching history that reflects the diverse experiences and contributions of all communities.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.30.3 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Scott Dickie, "Eli" (Eli Slack) and Jonathan Roudabush

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    24 mins
  • Texas Pastor Resigns, Cites Lucifer to Silence Flock

    Texas Pastor Resigns, Cites Lucifer to Silence Flock
    Jul 31 2024
    Texas megachurch pastor steps down over ‘moral failures,’ invokes Lucifer to bar congregants from talking

    New Your Post, By Alex Oliveira, on July 16. 2024

    https://nypost.com/2024/07/15/us-news/texas-megachurch-pastor-steps-down-over-moral-failures/

    In Frisco, Texas, Tony Karoda, pastor of Stonebrier Community Church, recently resigned after admitting to a "moral failure." The church's response, as detailed in a New York Post article by Alex Olivera, suggests a heavy-handed approach to handling the situation. The church has urged congregants to avoid discussing the matter, framing such discussions as the work of the devil. This incident is part of a troubling pattern in Texas, where multiple mega-church pastors have resigned amid various scandals, raising questions about cover-ups and the handling of misconduct within large religious organizations.

    Eli, a commentator, posits that the moral failure likely came to light through a congregant or another church leader, leading to the pastor’s confession to avoid further embarrassment. This situation parallels past instances where religious leaders were involved in scandals, including sexual abuse cases, and were subsequently covered up or handled in a way to minimize public knowledge.

    Scott raises a point about the potential benign nature of such "moral failings," but acknowledges the church's unusually strong reaction, which might indicate a more serious issue. He suggests that the church's effort to discourage discussion and speculation could be part of a broader pattern of covering up more severe issues.

    Jonathan adds to the discussion by noting a pattern of scandals involving mega-church pastors in Texas. He argues that the visibility of these pastors makes their failings more prominent, but also considers that smaller churches may face similar issues that simply don’t receive as much media attention. Jonathan highlights the pressure on pastors in large churches, suggesting that it might lead to secretive or unethical behavior.

    The conversation turns to the role of watchdog groups in holding church leadership accountable. Eli suggests that such groups could play a crucial role in providing transparency and ensuring that those in positions of power are held responsible for their actions. This includes maintaining lists of clergy with known issues and protecting congregants from potential harm.

    Overall, the discussion underscores the complex dynamics of handling moral failures within mega-churches, the potential for cover-ups, and the need for accountability and transparency in religious organizations.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.30.2 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Scott Dickie, "Eli" (Eli Slack) and Jonathan Roudabush

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    21 mins
  • Donor-Funded Ziklag Backs Voter Purges, Christian Rule

    Donor-Funded Ziklag Backs Voter Purges, Christian Rule
    Jul 29 2024
    Donor-Funded Ziklag Backs Voter Purges, Christian RuleZiklag, funded by wealthy donors, wants voter purges and Christian NationalismThe Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta , on July 16. 2024

    https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/ziklag-funded-by-wealthy-donors-wants


    The biblical town of Ziklag, mentioned in the Old Testament as a place where King David strategized during his exile, is now being used as a symbolic backdrop by a modern organization with controversial aims. The organization, also named Ziklag, was founded in 2017 to push forward the "Seven Mountains Mandate," a plan with roots in a 1975 prophecy that seeks to influence seven key areas of society: family, religion, education, media, entertainment, business, and government. This mandate, originally intended to usher in the end times, is now being employed by Ziklag to establish a Christian nationalist state.

    Ziklag is composed of about 150 wealthy individuals, each with a net worth exceeding $25 million, and had a reported $12 million in assets as of 2022. Despite the relatively modest sum compared to other political pressure groups, Ziklag has significant influence. They fund other right-wing organizations like Turning Point USA and employ advanced strategies, including AI-driven voter purges, to sway elections in their favor. Their aim is not only to elect Christian nationalists but also to suppress votes from marginalized communities.

    The group's rhetoric includes alarmist descriptions of their struggle against "dark forces," a language that some find reminiscent of fantasy villains like the Uruk-hai from "Lord of the Rings." This dramatic portrayal is used to rally their base and frighten opponents. Critics argue that Ziklag's approach, which includes targeting swing states with voter suppression tactics, is an attempt to manipulate electoral outcomes undemocratically.

    There is also concern about Ziklag’s status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This status is supposed to limit political activity, but Ziklag’s activities suggest they are pushing the boundaries of these regulations. Critics argue that their actions might be intentionally provocative, aiming to test legal limits and potentially influence Supreme Court decisions on the matter.

    Funding from major donors, including the Uilen family, the Greens (owners of Hobby Lobby), and the Wallers (Jockey apparel), further empowers Ziklag. These donors, with their substantial financial resources, enable Ziklag to influence smaller, local elections and legislative processes, which can have far-reaching effects on state and national governance.

    In summary, the Ziklag group represents a fusion of ancient symbolism with modern political strategy, aiming to reshape society according to their vision of Christian nationalism. Their methods, funding sources, and legal maneuvers highlight a complex and potentially dangerous intersection of religion and politics.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.30.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Scott Dickie, "Eli" (Eli Slack) and Jonathan Roudabush

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    23 mins
  • All Efforts, No Thoughts & Prayers In BC

    All Efforts, No Thoughts & Prayers In BC
    Jul 27 2024
    Thanks to Humanists, all British Columbia municipalities have ditched prayers at meetings., Friendly Atheist, by Hemant Mehta, on July 5, 2024,

    https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/thanks-to-humanists-all-british-columbia

    In a significant step forward for humanists and advocates of secular governance, all City Council meetings in British Columbia will now be prayer-free. This development comes nine years after a Supreme Court ruling declared the practice of opening meetings with prayers unconstitutional, as it violated civil rights. Despite the ruling, the British Columbia Humanist Association discovered that 23 municipalities were still starting their meetings with predominantly Christian prayers. In response, the association launched a determined campaign to end this practice. Their efforts included publishing a report identifying non-compliant municipalities, sending letters urging leaders to adhere to the law, and, in some cases, threatening legal action. As a result of these persistent efforts, all municipalities have now agreed to exclude prayers from their meetings and inauguration ceremonies.

    The decision is seen as a major victory for activists and supporters of secularism, highlighting the importance of holding local leaders accountable to the law. This story was reported by Hemant Mehta on The Friendly Atheist blog, published on July 5, 2024.

    Panelist Tao expressed great satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the significance of achieving this change through secular means rather than through provocative actions like those of the Satanic Temple. Tao pointed out that the absence of prayer at public meetings ensures that no single religion is given undue prominence, which is a positive step towards inclusivity.

    Aaron, another panelist, shared Tao's enthusiasm, noting that the decision benefits everyone by putting all citizens on equal footing regardless of their religious beliefs. He highlighted that the practice of opening meetings with Christian prayers implicitly suggested that Christianity was more important than other religions, and ending this practice helps in fostering a more inclusive environment.

    The discussion also touched on the broader implications of religious diversity in municipal ceremonies. While some argued for representing various religions to reflect cultural diversity, the consensus leaned towards maintaining a secular approach to avoid privileging any particular belief system. The case of Vancouver's 2022 inauguration, which included representatives from different religious backgrounds, was mentioned as an example of an effort to promote inclusivity.

    The persistence and dedication of the British Columbia Humanist Association were crucial in ensuring compliance with the Supreme Court ruling, demonstrating the power of sustained advocacy and legal pressure. This case underscores the importance of vigilance and accountability in upholding secular principles in public governance.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.29.4 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Kara Griffin, Mateo and Aaron Jensen

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    19 mins
  • Satanists Offer Counseling Amid DeSantis Law

    Satanists Offer Counseling Amid DeSantis Law
    Jul 26 2024
    Satanists in Florida offer to fill school counselor roles after DeSantis lawThe Hill, By Lexi Lonas, on July 8, 2024

    https://thehill.com/homenews/education/4760286-satanists-florida-public-school-counselors-desantis/

    In an expected turn of events, the Satanic Temple is challenging a new law in Florida, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, which permits volunteer chaplains in public schools. Lucien Greaves, co-founder of the Satanic Temple, asserts that excluding them violates the First Amendment, despite DeSantis' claim that Satanism isn't a legitimate religion. This has sparked a heated debate on religious freedom and inclusion.

    The conversation delves into the implications of allowing chaplains from non-Christian backgrounds, such as Satanism, into public schools. One argument suggests that children, being highly impressionable, could easily be indoctrinated by religious figures, regardless of their intent. Thus, introducing chaplains into schools might favor certain religions and potentially indoctrinate children rather than fostering critical thinking skills and unbiased education.

    One participant shares their experience and evolving view of the Satanic Temple, initially seeing it as a mere counter to religion but recognizing its strategic role in highlighting the need for separation of church and state. The temple's tactics, such as demanding equal representation in public spaces, underscore the absurdity of religious favoritism and demonstrate why no religion should receive special privileges.

    The discussion also touches on legal definitions of religion. While Governor DeSantis dismisses Satanism as a religion, legal precedents and IRS criteria suggest otherwise. These criteria include having a distinct legal existence, a recognized creed, and a form of worship, all of which the Satanic Temple possesses. Therefore, excluding them from the chaplain program is legally questionable and highlights the potential for biased implementation of religious policies.

    One contributor argues that the best solution is to avoid introducing religious programs into schools altogether. This would prevent any one belief system from being promoted over others and maintain the neutrality necessary for public education. Instead, resources should be allocated to secular support systems like licensed counselors and better educational funding, which genuinely address students' needs without religious interference.

    As more states consider similar legislation, including Bible-based curricula and the display of religious texts in schools, the debate over religious inclusivity and the separation of church and state intensifies. The inclusion of diverse religious perspectives in public schools remains a contentious issue, raising questions about fairness, legality, and the true intent behind such policies.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.29.3 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Kara Griffin, Mateo and Aaron Jensen

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    21 mins
  • Pastor's Lawyer Points Finger at 12-Year-Old

    Pastor's Lawyer Points Finger at 12-Year-Old
    Jul 24 2024
    Lawyer for megachurch pastor blamed 12-year-old for initiating ‘inappropriate’ sexual conduct

    NBC News, By Mike Hixenbaugh and Antonia Hylton, on July 9, 2024

    https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/robert-morris-gateway-church-lawyer-letters-cindy-clemishire-rcna160661

    The discussion continues to uncover and critique the abhorrent behavior of certain pastors within the church community. This episode highlights the case of Robert Morris, a pastor whose lawyer shockingly accused a 12-year-old child of seducing the pastor, thereby attempting to deflect blame for the pastor's reprehensible actions. This form of victim-blaming is sadly not new; the episode references numerous other cases of clergy abuse, particularly within the Catholic Church, where similar tactics have been used to protect perpetrators rather than victims.

    The conversation delves into how churches often teach blind obedience and place clergy in positions of untouchable authority, creating an environment where abuse can thrive unchecked. This dynamic is exemplified by the case of Morris, whose lawyer's disgusting defense reflects a broader issue within church culture. The panelists discuss how the rhetoric and behavior of abusers are often minimized or euphemized, with terms like "moral failure" used instead of calling out abuse for what it is. This language shift allows abusers to evade full accountability and often results in their continued presence in positions of power.

    Moreover, the discussion touches on how church leaders frequently fail to fulfill their moral, ethical, and legal responsibilities towards minors in their care. The case of Cindy Clemmy, a victim of Morris's abuse, illustrates the lifelong trauma and struggles faced by survivors. Despite her courage in coming forward, the church's response has been inadequate, with a tendency to blame victims rather than protect them. The episode highlights the systemic issue of churches having insurance specifically for sexual abuse cases, pointing out how normalized and expected such incidents have become within religious institutions.

    The panelists express their outrage and call for greater accountability and systemic change to protect vulnerable individuals from such predatory behavior. They emphasize the need for church leaders to take real responsibility and for communities to stop enabling abusers through complicity or silence. The conversation serves as a powerful indictment of the structures that allow such abuses to occur and persist, urging a reevaluation of how churches handle allegations of abuse and the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all congregants, especially children.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.29.2 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Kara Griffin, Mateo and Aaron Jensen

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    20 mins
  • Texas Pastor Fined for Campaigning with Church Cash

    Texas Pastor Fined for Campaigning with Church Cash
    Jul 22 2024
    Texas pastor fined after illegally using church donations to boost his city council campaign

    Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on JULY 11, 2024

    https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/texas-pastor-fined-after-illegally

    In an unprecedented move, a Texas pastor and two churches have been fined by the Texas Ethics Commission for violating state election laws, emphasizing the ongoing importance of the separation between religion and government. The pastor was fined $3,500 for using his church to campaign for an elected office, and the two churches were fined for donating money to his campaign.

    This action, published by Hemet Mehta on the Friendly Atheist on July 11, 2024, has sparked significant reactions. Many view it as a necessary consequence for blatant violations of long-standing laws intended to prevent the intertwining of political and religious practices. Commentators have expressed surprise and approval, noting that this enforcement in Texas, a state known for its conservative leanings, is a positive sign that laws are still respected.

    The nominal fine, however, raises questions about its effectiveness as a deterrent. There's a broader concern about the increasing politicization of religious practices in certain communities, and the risks of churches wielding undue influence over political processes. The discussion also touched on the dangerous precedent set by recent Supreme Court decisions that appear to favor historical and traditional values over strict legal precedents, potentially threatening the separation of church and state.

    Examples include the controversial ruling allowing a coach to lead prayers on a football field and Louisiana's law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in schools, which are likely to face judicial scrutiny. Critics argue that stronger regulations and enforcement mechanisms are needed to prevent religious organizations from leveraging their influence in politics, suggesting that more substantial fines or punitive damages might serve as more effective deterrents.

    The debate continues on the best methods to ensure that the wall between church and state remains intact, highlighting the essential role of the electorate in advocating for these boundaries both in government and within their religious communities.

    The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.29.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Kara Griffin, Mateo and Aaron Jensen

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.
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    18 mins