Political Quotes

“no American citizen, not one, should have to pass someone else's religious test to qualify for a federally funded job. That is the principle behind the Woolsey amendment. Frankly, I am appalled that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 would be mischaracterized by some to defend the act of religious discrimination and bigotry when using Federal tax dollars. Mr. Chairman, I want you to imagine for a moment that you are applying for a Head Start job which is funded by Federal tax dollars. You have a college degree in early childhood education. You have excellent references and 10 years of experience in working with prekindergarten children. Prior to your job interview, you prepare for days for possible questions regarding teaching methods and enhancing children's self-esteem. Then when you sit down for your job interview, the first question asked of you is this: Are you Jewish or Catholic? Puzzled about why you would be asked such a question for a Head Start job interview, you answer that your faith is a private matter and it has nothing to do with your job qualifications. But the job interviewer responds by saying, no, your job interview is over. You are not being hired because we do not hire Catholics or Jews. Offended, you say you are an American citizen and you cannot be denied a federally funded job based solely on your private, personal religious faith. The interviewer says, no, you are wrong.”