Reply #19: I write grant applications and funding proposals for a local non-profit . . .

[OneBlueSky]

(among other things), and recently we've had occasion to respond to three RFPs from various federal agencies . . . each of the RFPs ("Requests for Proposals") had a whole section about how so-called "faith-based" organizations could apply for the funds being distributed . . . each, in fact, actually encouraged faith-based entities to apply -- as if the feds are specifically looking to fund these kinds of outfits . . .

seems it's a government-wide policy these days, and not one I'm at all comfortable with . . . first of all, funding religious organizations (well, that's what they are) leaves fewer funds available for legitimate non-profits who have been working in their particular fields and and scrimping for money for years . . . and second, it violates the separation of church and state that's been a foundation of our government for a very, very long time . . .

add in the "takeovers" of certain agencies (e.g. the Department of the Air Force) by dominionists and other religious fanatics, and it all adds up to a scary dip into the realm of theocracy that should cause everyone a fair measure of concern . . .

here's an example from a recent Department of Justice RFP . . .

"Consistent with President George W. Bush's Executive Order 13279, dated December 12, 2002, and 28 C.F.R. Part 38, it is DOJ policy that faith-based and community organizations that statutorily qualify as eligible applicants under DOJ programs are invited and encouraged (my emphasis) to apply for assistance awards to fund eligible grant activities. Faith-based and community organizations will be considered for awards on the same basis as other eligible applicants and, if they receive assistance awards, will be treated on an equal basis with all other grantees in the administration of such awards. No eligible applicant or grantee will be discriminated for or against on the basis of its religious character or affiliation, religious name, or the religious composition of its board of directors or persons working for the organization.

"Faith-based organizations receiving DOJ assistance awards retain their independence and do not lose or have to modify their religious identity (e.g. removing religious symbols) to receive assistance awards. DOJ grant funds, however, may not be used to fund any inherently religious activity, such as prayer or worship. Inherently religious activity is permissible, although it cannot occur during an activity funded with DOJ grant funds; rather, such religious activity must be separate in time or place from the DOJ-funded program. Further, participation in such activity by individuals receiving services must be voluntary. Programs funded by DOJ are not permitted to discriminate in the provision of services on the basis of a beneficiary's religion."

sounds innocuous enough in some ways, I suppose, but it certainly points to a very dangerous trend, imo . . .