New Task Force Signals Aggressive Religious Freedom Agenda
The Trump administration is intensifying its campaign against what it calls “anti-Christian bias” by instructing federal employees to report incidents of perceived discrimination. The move comes after a Justice Department-led task force met in April, following an executive order from President Trump establishing a commission on religious liberty. VA Secretary Doug Collins sent a department-wide email directing employees to flag mistreatment based on Christian beliefs or holiday observances.
Supporters Say Faith Is Being Defended
Trump allies and conservative groups applaud the effort as a long-overdue defense of religious freedom. A White House official stated that the administration wants to “make it right” if bias exists. Trump supporters see the creation of a dedicated faith office and a wider push to prioritize religious liberty as elevating faith within the federal government.
Critics Fear Narrow, Evangelical-Only Focus
Federal employees and some Christian groups argue the initiative may marginalize those outside evangelical traditions. They fear it could be used to accuse non-Christians—such as Jews or Muslims—of anti-Christian bias simply for not celebrating holidays like Christmas. Critics, including Georgetown law professor David Super, warn that the administration has not clearly defined anti-Christian bias, increasing the risk of misinterpretation and misuse.
Legal Protections Already Exist, Detractors Note
Opponents also point out that Title VI of the Civil Rights Act already bans religious discrimination in federal programs. They question why a new initiative is needed and whether it favors Christians disproportionately. One VA employee, speaking anonymously, expressed concern that the agency no longer acknowledges a range of religious holidays, reflecting a shift since Trump’s inauguration.
Political Context: Appealing to Evangelical Base
The effort aligns with broader conservative attempts to reintroduce religion into public life amid declining numbers of white Christians in the U.S. Trump has framed the initiative as a response to societal change, bolstering his appeal to white evangelicals. Experts like Robert P. Jones of the Public Religion Research Institute see the campaign as a political strategy to energize that core voter group.
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Trump’s push against “anti-Christian bias” hits federal workers
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