What does one's religion have to do with being elected president?

What does one’s religion have to do with being elected president

This is a response to Harold Blackburn’s letter concerning Barack Obama. So the swift boating begins. Blackburn insinuates that Obama is a Muslim. First, what if Obama were a Muslim? Does this disqualify him from becoming the next president of the United States?

Tell that to the millions of American citizens who are Muslims.

E-mails have been flying around the Internet denigrating the Christian church Obama attends. To quell your fears, I ask you to go to the Trinity United Church of Christ’s Web site and listen to what Jane Fisler Hoffman has to say about her congregation.

Blackburn insists that he is a tolerant, Christian man and I take him at his word. However, he must not have heard Obama’s message which wants to lift all people up regardless of their religion, their gender, their political persuasions or the color of their skin.

The times are a-changing Blackburn and hopefully these values Obama is promoting will not only resonate with good Christians like you, but with many Americans throughout the country.

Gina Touchton
Loachapoka

Obama a stronger person because of journeys during upbringing
First, the Constitution clearly says “no religious test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.”

Accusations against a candidate’s religious beliefs are not only rude, but, simply put, unconstitutional. What makes this smear all the worse are the inaccuracies.

Trinity United Church of Christ is not an African-American only body of believers. This has been reported on in the Christian Science Monitor and the New York Times. Trinity is Afro-Centric. It only makes sense that the church meets the unique needs of a south-side Chicago congregation.

This is not anti-white, nor is it racist. It does offer strength to a population that is still overcoming obstacles, and finding a voice. It is the living continuation of the civil rights movement, and crucial for a world still wrought with discrimination. A drive to work in missions and support a continent in need is a noble cause.

A commitment to Africa is a wonderful sign of hope, and should never be reduced to terms of “dedication to Black Africa.” Frankly, I was unaware that “Black Africa” was still in our parlance. Obama is not, and has never been a Muslim. He was not raised in a traditionally Muslim home. Attacks of this nature are laughable in their ignorance, yet disheartening.

Using a religion as a fear inducer is shameful, regardless of the faith. Journeys during his upbringing give Obama a stronger background than many candidates. Rich experiences overseas inform his political views and encourage his desire for unity. Differing points of view, diplomacy and tolerance have been eliminated in this environment of polarized politics. Obama brings these elements back to the table when we need them most.

Andrew Henley
Opelika