Clarifying views on religion and parades
It seems like everyone who responded to my letter on "Religion and Parade Don't Mix" completely misunderstood it.
Yes, of course, churches do a lot of good. Who could reasonably argue otherwise? My family and I, as I said, are very involved in the mission work of our church.
I understand how religion has played an important role in our history and in our lives. And I have no problem with churches or other religions wanting to participate in the parade by sponsoring patriotic floats that are not intended to convey a religious message to the parade crowds.
That's not the issue. The issue is whether churches or any religion should feel free, without any limitation whatsoever, to impose their beliefs upon others during the 4th of July parade.
I took specific issue with two entries: One church float has a giant American flag hung between two massive white crosses. Another had its members walking around with "Pro Life" placards.
No church should appear to claim the American flag as their own, or to equate patriotism with their religion. The flag belongs to all citizens, whether Christian, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, or no religion. To indicate otherwise, intentionally or not, subverts the whole purpose of the Independence Day parade: unity.
As for the "Pro Life" placards, they were simply inappropriate, no matter which side of the issue you're on. There are time, place and manner restrictions on our First Amendment rights and there should be reasonable limitations on the content of parade entries.
Many paradegoers simply don't want such issues crammed down their throats on a day of what should be community celebration.
Some questioned my Christianity and my church over all of this, and that's ridiculous.
I don't feel the need to talk religion at an event when most people don't want to hear it between the Hersey High School marching band and Buttons the Clown.
Mike Fanella
Arlington Heights