Religious Tolerance

The Christian Post, on February 15 reported movement in religious tolerance. "ESPN recently released a public statement in which the network promised to work toward building religious tolerance in its workplace and encourage its employees to use language consistent with that commitment."

"Diversity and communications are important to ESPN and we have existing programs in place for both," read the ESPN statement. "To bring focus to the issues of religious tolerance and language as part of these efforts is totally appropriate and we will do so."The statement continued, "With regard to language in the workplace, we do not have a list of forbidden phrases, but we do require appropriate workplace behavior. We will raise the profile of this issue as part of our internal dialogue and will be emphasizing to employees the importance of using language that is appropriate in the workplace."

The protesting Christian groups commended ESPN on Thursday. The Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, director of the Christian Defense Coalition, the group behind the protest, called the statement by ESPN "the first powerful step toward building a culture of religious tolerance."
"Religious intolerance and discrimination should have no place in the American workplace," said Mahoney. "Employees should feel that their faith traditions, beliefs and value systems will be respected and honored."

Religious tolerance may lead to the crossroads that one may not be able to speak his deepest and moral convictions anywhere. I am concerned that religious tolerance may lead to a "don't ask, don't tell" policy for religious convictions. I wonder if respect will lead to censoring what you believe for fear that your convictions may disrespect others. As a Christian, I am going to pray for more wisdom as I engage this society today. May God grant His discernment as we boldly proclaim the truth of Jesus Christ.