Christians claim they are all about saving children but the reality of their actions dictates a total disregard for the welfare of foster kids. Nothing clarifies this point better than Christian-based foster care.
The case of Elizabeth and Gabriel Rutan-Ram highlights an alarming trend that has emerged in recent years as various states have passed legislation allowing Christian-based foster care and adoption programs to receive taxpayer funding, even if they exclude families based on religious beliefs. In Tennessee, Governor Bill Lee's signing of a controversial adoption bill is indicative of the growing acceptance of this form of discrimination in the name of religious freedom.
The Holston United Methodist Home for Children's denial of services to the Rutan-Ram couple because of their Jewish faith exemplifies how taxpayer money can be used to fund organizations that discriminate against citizens based on their religious beliefs. This raises serious questions about the true intent of these so-called "Christian-based" programs, which seem more focused on upholding religious dogmas than serving the best interests of vulnerable children in need of a loving home.
Brad Williams, president and CEO of Holston Home, defends their decision to only place children with families that "agree with our statement of faith," arguing that vulnerable children should not lose access to Christian homes due to the exclusionary nature of these programs. However, this argument is flawed on multiple levels. Firstly, it ignores the fact that there are numerous non-Christian families who are more than capable and willing to provide loving homes for foster children. Secondly, by restricting services based on religious beliefs, these programs are essentially choosing to prioritize their own religious values over the well-being of vulnerable children - a decision that is both unethical and counterproductive to the mission of providing safe and nurturing environments for these children.
Moreover, this growing trend of state-funded Christian-based adoption agencies engaging in blatant acts of discrimination undermines the very principle of religious freedom that they claim to uphold. Instead of fostering an inclusive society where people of all faiths (or lack thereof) can coexist peacefully and contribute to their communities, these programs are creating a divisive and exclusionary environment that only serves to perpetuate intolerance and prejudice.
As the Rutan-Ram case demonstrates, it is essential for citizens to hold government officials accountable for their decisions and actions, particularly when they involve the allocation of public funds. By allowing Christian-based adoption agencies to discriminate against potential adoptive parents based on religious beliefs, these legislators are not only enabling systemic inequality but also undermining the very principles upon which our society was founded.
It is crucial that we, as a society, recognize the dangerous implications of state-funded Christian-based adoption agencies and work to ensure that all citizens - regardless of their religious beliefs or sexual orientation - have equal access to services designed to protect and support vulnerable children in need. By promoting tolerance, acceptance, and equality for all, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate world for everyone.
