LETTER: Churches should not be exempt from public health directives

To Ozaukee Press:

Wisconsin citizens shouldn’t have to choose between religious freedom and public safety. We can protect both by voting no on question 2 on the Nov. 3 ballot. 

The proposed constitutional amendment would exempt places of worship from any emergency orders. For example, a city would not be able to stop a church from holding services in a building rendered unfit by a flood or fire.

Question 2, which would also apply to public health emergencies, should be dubbed “the Superspreader Amendment.” Disease outbreaks and emergencies affect everyone—including church-goers.

Many faith communities are voting no because they know disasters don’t stop at the church door. The proposal is against the interests of worshipers, their communities and public health.

The Wisconsin Constitution already provides strong protection for our religious freedoms. Please “love thy neighbor” and protect public welfare during emergencies by voting no on question 2.

Annie Laurie Gaylor

Co-president

Freedom From Religion Foundation

Madison