Indianapolis Star urges governor to fix Indiana’s controversial ‘religious freedom’ law with front page editorial
The Indianapolis Star has published an editorial called “Gov. Pence, fix ‘religious freedom' law now” on the front page of its Tuesday 31 March edition and on its site.
The editorial is in response to Indiana’s newly enacted ‘Religious Freedom Restoration Act,’ which prohibits state and local governments from interfering with a person’s ability to practice their religion.
However, it can be used to justify discrimination against the LGBT community as businesses can deny service to gays and lesbians. Governor Mike Pence signed the law last week.
“We are at a critical moment in Indiana’s history. And much is at stake.” the article states. “Our image. Our reputation as a state that embraces people of diverse backgrounds and makes them feel welcome,” it continues.
While the editorial does not call on the state government to repeal the law, it instead asks for a new law that would prohibit discrimination in terms of employment, housing, education and public accommodations on the basis of a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
Many high-profile figures have voiced their critcisms of the law. Late last week, Apple chief executive Tim Cook, who publicly came out last year, tweeted "Apple is open for everyone. We are deeply disappointed in Indiana's new law," on 27 March.