Liberty Exposé: A Tale of Two Rights: Freedom of the Press and Freedom of Religion
Amendment I of the United States Constitution reads as follows: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”
President Trump made waves recently when he deemed churches an essential service and encouraged states to reopen them as soon as possible. In a press conference on May 22, the President stated “Today I’m identifying houses of worship, churches, synagogues and mosques as essential places that provide essential services. Some governors have deemed liquor stores and abortion clinics as essential, but have left out churches and other houses of worship. It’s not right. So I’m correcting this injustice and calling houses of worship essential. I call upon governors to allow our churches and places of worship to open right now.” He finished his remarks by saying “If they don’t do it, I will override the governors. In America, we need more prayer, not less. Thank you very much.”
The incredulous wide-eyed glances that appeared above the masks of the White House Press Corps were an interesting thing to behold—especially since freedom of religion is championed alongside the freedom of the press in the first amendment—something they lionize on a daily basis.
A parallel emerged, with the stalwart defenders of the press utterly indifferent to their first amendment bedfellow. Collectively, they seemed to echo, “It is way too early!” In lockstep agreement, they insinuated that for the President to even mention such an action was grossly irresponsible—at best! In their back and forth with Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany, they seemed befuddled that it was of any critical importance. The moment was rich in irony, and I couldn’t help but wonder—what would their be if their first amendment right was so cavalierly brushed aside?
The truth is, the press would never entertain criticisms to its legitimacy, so why would they be nonchalant about something considered equally vital?
Americans are certainly less religious than they were during the founding, but that doesn’t mean its pivotal role in American society should be diluted anymore than the press’ freedom should be, if, for example, the public suddenly lost interest in reading the news.
There is also a difference in opinion among churches about when to reopen. Many held services last Pentecost Sunday, while others with larger congregations are deferring to open at a later date. However, it is one thing for a place of worship to close of its own volition in the midst of a mysterious illness, and quite another to wait for the government’s permission to open—when many places of less critical importance are allowed to operate. When grocery and liquor stores, doctor’s offices—even dog groomers—are deemed responsible enough to follow basic guidelines, but churches are not— their lack of faith in the faithful is disturbing, indeed!
There is no debate over whether CNN, or Fox News, or MSNBC should remain open. They are open, and have remained open since this crisis began. They have been permitted to play out their vital role in society in a safe and responsible way.
Many may disagree and say that freedom of the press is under serious threat during a Trump presidency, especially considering his combative attitude toward the Press Corps and other media outlets. Yet no attempt has been made to cancel their access to the White House or prevent them from assembling to question the President and Coronavirus task force.
Ah, to feel so safely ensconced in your own first ammendment right, and yet be utterly indifferent to a another. What intellectual luxury! Such luxuries were hard won and fought for, and at the time of the country’s genesis (pun-intended) worth dying for.
We are a nation of laws, and as such, the first amendment and all statutes within should be treated with the same gravity. If the freedom of the press was being nullified or discouraged at this critical time, such a notion would be roundly rejected by left and right. It is unfortunate that the same cannot be said of the other, most admirable rights delineated in the first amendment.
Recently, a friend of mine mentioned to me that her father is a Methodist pastor, and received word that when the their churches open, singing of any kind is not permitted. To me, it seemed an astounding compromise. Imagine if you will, that the press were allowed to assemble, but not be permitted to waste a single breath on asking questions? Such restrictions taken in the name of disease prevention would certainly be understandable—I’m sure they wouldn’t mind. But of course they would mind! The American public would also mind. Why? Because a free press is critical to democracy, and any constraints upon it are more than merely irksome—they are downright dangerous. Journalists have been allowed to operate while following safety guidelines since the beginning of this pandemic. Why not the faithful? The press should defend them as vociferously as they defend themselves.
