TFN President: Gov. Perry’s Claims About Teaching Creationism in Texas Incorrect, Irresponsible
In campaign stop, Gov. Perry claims creationism taught alongside evolution in state’s public schools
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 18, 2011
The Texas Freedom Network today released the following statement in response to an erroneous claim by Gov. Rick Perry about creationism in Texas public schools. Answering a young boy’s question while campaigning Thursday in New Hampshire, Gov. Perry said, “in Texas we teach both creationism and evolution in our public schools.”
From TFN President Kathy Miller:
“Gov. Perry has once again waded into the culture wars for political gain, but without considering the harmful consequences. It is irresponsible for the leader of a state, or a presidential hopeful, to suggest to public school teachers that it is OK to teach creationism as science when such attempts have repeatedly been ruled unconstitutional by the courts, and could result in litigation against a school district. And it is outrageous that Gov. Perry would erode respect for and trust in public education in Texas, simply in order to promote his political aspirations. Texans and Texas schools are working to prepare our children for college and 21st-century jobs. Gov. Perry’s irresponsible comments wrongly suggest otherwise.”
###
The Texas Freedom Network is a nonpartisan education and religious liberties watchdog. The grassroots organization of religious and community leaders support public education, religious freedom and individual liberties.
