I have been a part of FR since 1998, I've contributed during that entire period, I've stood up for the 2nd amendment, conservative candidates, and conservative causes with more than just words but also with cash and my presence.
I have been a part of the religious forum since its inception, and have argued for open debate and have supported the inclusion of devotional and caucus threads.
As a retired US Army Chaplain, I have stood up on FR and elsewhere for the 1st amendment...an amendment that BEGINS with religious rights. Particularly, it says there shall be no established religion and that everyone shall have the right of free expression of religion.
In the same way as the 2nd amendment makes no exceptions to the right to keep and bear arms, the 1st amendment makes no exceptions to the right to free expression.
If standing up for this clear, constitutional provision makees me liable to have "bad things happen to (my) account", then say so.
If you were not referring to those like me, then say that.
If this is some kind of thread protected from debate, then at least have the courtesy of the religion moderator who calls some threads "caucus" threads, so we know not to participate on them. Instead of "methodist caucus" or "protestant caucus" or "catholic caucus", you could call it by some name such as "Anti-Islam Caucus", so we know not to debate those high and lofty ideals such as no religious rights for other than Judeo-Christian Americans.
I am a fully ordained, active Elder in my denomination. I have 24+ years of military service to this nation. I have relatives now serving in the war zone, including a son, and I am a long-time Freeper. I deserve clarity.
I would also be interested in a response to this.
As far as I could tell, the problems on the other thread were the result of P-Marlowe raising LEGITIMATE CONCERNS over plans to curtail the First Amendment.
If FR wants to have an ongoing thread about getting rid of the RINOs, count me in, I am behind that 100%. I openly supported Sarah Palin for VP months before most FReepers knew who she was. I think these can be great threads, IF they stick to their stated goals. I am even willing to ignore the fact that they are supporting a RINO in Massachusetts.
I can understand that the moderators were upset about the other thread, but I don’t recall any moderators doing anything on the thread prior to locking it. Did things get out of hand on the other thread? Probably. But if “bad things will happen to their accounts” for being in a flamewar, there probably wouldn’t be many FReepers left.