People who own businesses have rights

Bob Dohn appears to have a number of misconceptions in his April 10 letter.

First, he states, "Freedom of religion means the state cannot dictate theological tenets or the practice of faith ..." The Declaration of Independence clearly states that human rights are "unalienable" and come from our "Creator" and not the state.

The Constitution, the document which implements the principles outlined in the Declaration, specifically addresses this in the First Amendment, by prohibiting government from "prohibiting the free exercise" of religion or by "establishment of religion."

The "unalienable Right" comes first and government may not interfere. Mr. Dohn appears to see things in reverse.

Secondly, he states that "Businesses are commercial enterprises, not bastions of faith." Again, he seems to trivialize the right to freedom of religion but ignores the fact that businesses only exist because they are run by human beings, people who have the right to practice their religion according to their beliefs and their consciences.

He implies that religious people must live their lives in accordance with secular beliefs and keep religion out of public life. Does he mean that religious freedom stops when it becomes an inconvenience to him?

Finally, he claims, "Holders of faith cannot force their beliefs on the public." In response, I ask how is the conduct of business not a free association between a buyer and a seller based upon mutual honesty, respect and justice? If a person of faith cannot enter into a transaction because it contradicts his right to freedom of religion, why must he be forced into it by someone who does not share in his beliefs?

C.E. Glomski

Elk Grove Village