Liberty University has revoked its recognition of the campus Democratic Party club, saying “we are unable to lend support to a club whose parent organization stands against the moral principles held by” the university.
LU formally recognized the club in October.
The school’s decision was made in May 15 in an e-mail to the President of the club, Brian Diaz, from Mark Hine, vice president of student affairs.
According to the e-mail, the club must stop using the university’s name, holding meetings on campus, or advertising events. Violators could incur one or more reprimands under the school’s Liberty Way conduct code, and anyone who accumulates 30 reprimands is subject to expulsion.
The university said it could not sanction an official club that supported Democratic candidates.
“We are in no way attempting to stifle free speech.”
The university had recently completed a policy that would govern clubs and organizations on campus.
Hine’s e-mail mentioned that he had expressed a concern to Diaz about the national Democratic Party’s platform during a meeting earlier in the semester.
Last fall, Hine had complimented the club for being a faith-based organization working within the Democratic Party.
Part of Hine’s e-mail said, “The Democratic Party platform is contrary to the mission of Liberty University and to Christian doctrine (supports abortion, federal funding of abortion, advocates repeal of the federal Defense of Marriage Act, promotes the “LGBT” agenda, hate crimes, which include sexual orientation and gender identity, socialism, etc.)” LGBT refers to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.
E-mail also said, “The candidates this club supports uphold the platform and implement it. The candidates supported are directly contrary to the mission of Liberty University.”
The goals of the Democratic Party and LU “run in opposite directions,” the e-mail said.
Many of the students at LU are dependent on receiving Federal and State educational loans . This financial aid comes from taxpayers , Democrats and Republicans alike. Perhaps Mr. Hine should consider that LU and its students refuse to accept any money from taxpayers which may represent “ stands against the moral principles held “ by the university.
Mr. Hine should also request that he prefers that fans of Liberty sports not attend and spend their money at athletic events if they are not in tune with the schools’ philosophy. That Democrats should not financially support the Church or the University. Perhaps Mr. Hine should also inform the Falwell family to be more selective in whom they seek funding from.
Many of the students at LU are dependent on receiving Federal and State educational loans . This financial aid comes from taxpayers , Democrats and Republicans alike. Perhaps Mr. Hine should consider that LU and its students refuse to accept any money from taxpayers which may represent “ stands against the moral principles held “ by the university.
Mr. Hine should also request that he prefers that fans of Liberty sports not attend and spend their money at athletic events if they are not in tune with the schools’ philosophy. That Democrats should not financially support the Church or the University. Perhaps Mr. Hine should also inform the Falwell family to be more selective in whom they seek funding from.
supports/advocates “hate crimes”?! and what does socialism have to do with anything? Even it if the Democratic party did support socialism (which it doesn’t), why does that get lumped in with abortion and the “LGBT” “agenda”. Why is an economic philosophy a moral issue? (Especially one, that at least idealistically, cares deeply for the poor and under-privileged)? Is the Republican Club getting shut down for its party’s position on the death penalty, war or torture? This is a college, allow your students to think for themselves and understand all the issues–not just pet ones. Would a student be kicked out of school if they voted Democrat? This is a fine, scary line they are walking
supports/advocates “hate crimes”?! and what does socialism have to do with anything? Even it if the Democratic party did support socialism (which it doesn’t), why does that get lumped in with abortion and the “LGBT” “agenda”. Why is an economic philosophy a moral issue? (Especially one, that at least idealistically, cares deeply for the poor and under-privileged)? Is the Republican Club getting shut down for its party’s position on the death penalty, war or torture? This is a college, allow your students to think for themselves and understand all the issues–not just pet ones. Would a student be kicked out of school if they voted Democrat? This is a fine, scary line they are walking
So sad…what does this say about our Christian witness when our leaders are subjugating the Church to a single political ideology? So the Democratic platform is contrary to Christian doctrine, but the GOP is not? The issue is not whether the Democratic Party aligns perfectly with the teachings of Christ. Of course it does not! A political party’s entire focus is on storing up earthly treasure and power. But that is the GOP focus too…probably even more so. When we as evangelicals show that we are in the pocket of worldly powers and use the church to level partisan attacks, it does incredible damage to our witness. I’ll be praying for the Liberty administration.
So sad…what does this say about our Christian witness when our leaders are subjugating the Church to a single political ideology? So the Democratic platform is contrary to Christian doctrine, but the GOP is not? The issue is not whether the Democratic Party aligns perfectly with the teachings of Christ. Of course it does not! A political party’s entire focus is on storing up earthly treasure and power. But that is the GOP focus too…probably even more so. When we as evangelicals show that we are in the pocket of worldly powers and use the church to level partisan attacks, it does incredible damage to our witness. I’ll be praying for the Liberty administration.
It is unfortunate that Liberty is taking this stance. I am a Regent student and have attended meetings for the Regent Democrats, Regent University is also a Christian institution. I don’t understand why Liberty chooses to make such far reaching statements that only alienate themselves from their students. As Christians, aren’t we supposed to be witnesses to others in whatever context we are in? Wouldn’t it be better to have a Christian voice in the Democratic Party? And when did the Democratic Party promote hate crimes for that matter??
It is unfortunate that Liberty is taking this stance. I am a Regent student and have attended meetings for the Regent Democrats, Regent University is also a Christian institution. I don’t understand why Liberty chooses to make such far reaching statements that only alienate themselves from their students. As Christians, aren’t we supposed to be witnesses to others in whatever context we are in? Wouldn’t it be better to have a Christian voice in the Democratic Party? And when did the Democratic Party promote hate crimes for that matter??
Democrats don’t support “Hate Crimes..” They support “Hate Crime” legislation which is very close to being a “thought crime” a la George Orwell’s “1984.” I think that having Christians in the Democrat Party is a good idea..they have swung so far left that they need people to bring them back to their roots. I find it amazing however that they have been successful in convincing people that they “care about the poor” when truly their policies do NOTHING for them but keep them as a underclass to be called upon to vote for more things that keep them as an underclass, all the while saying the opposite. And yes, economic policy is spiritual in nature, just as is government…unless you don’t think that ultimately, God is in charge? I would have to say that Socialism is pretty evil with what you have to sacrifice to have it work…independence, self reliance, entrepreneurialship…and ultimately…FREEDOM. I live in a liberal state that if it goes broke will affect the world economy. If you want to see what the Dems are up to in this area…look at the slide downhill of California. As California goes, so goes the country. Please, LU, reinstate the Dems Club!
Democrats don’t support “Hate Crimes..” They support “Hate Crime” legislation which is very close to being a “thought crime” a la George Orwell’s “1984.” I think that having Christians in the Democrat Party is a good idea..they have swung so far left that they need people to bring them back to their roots. I find it amazing however that they have been successful in convincing people that they “care about the poor” when truly their policies do NOTHING for them but keep them as a underclass to be called upon to vote for more things that keep them as an underclass, all the while saying the opposite. And yes, economic policy is spiritual in nature, just as is government…unless you don’t think that ultimately, God is in charge? I would have to say that Socialism is pretty evil with what you have to sacrifice to have it work…independence, self reliance, entrepreneurialship…and ultimately…FREEDOM. I live in a liberal state that if it goes broke will affect the world economy. If you want to see what the Dems are up to in this area…look at the slide downhill of California. As California goes, so goes the country. Please, LU, reinstate the Dems Club!
[…] Posted by Amy Sullivan | Comments (0) | Permalink | Trackbacks (0) | Email This The news that Liberty University shut down the school’s College Democrats club probably isn’t as surprising as the news that Liberty University had a College Democrats club in […]
You can be a democrat, a Christian, and pro-life. As for socialism: “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
Republicans are better in following Jesus in this??? Please. If you stop and ask WWJD, I don’t think the answer would be invade iraq, torture people, destroy the planet, and help the wealthy.
You can be a democrat, a Christian, and pro-life. As for socialism: “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
Republicans are better in following Jesus in this??? Please. If you stop and ask WWJD, I don’t think the answer would be invade iraq, torture people, destroy the planet, and help the wealthy.
It’s amazing that so many people are up in arms when a Christian college decides to actually follow its Christian tenets. Sure, there’s room for debate on some of these issues but this college has a set standard. Those supporting pro-abortion and pro-homosexual candidates knew ahead of time that Liberty considered that sin. If you don’t believe in Liberty’s standards, don’t go to school there.
It’s amazing that so many people are up in arms when a Christian college decides to actually follow its Christian tenets. Sure, there’s room for debate on some of these issues but this college has a set standard. Those supporting pro-abortion and pro-homosexual candidates knew ahead of time that Liberty considered that sin. If you don’t believe in Liberty’s standards, don’t go to school there.
Another example of why the separation of church and state is such a great idea! Yeah! So, at Liberty University, there ain’t much “liberty” when it comes to school clubs eh? As long as you “preach” and support the views – political, social and spiritual – of the school, you kiddies have the right to assemble – and possess free speech. Brian Diaz is right when he says it sounds like censorship. If I were a student at LU – republican or democrat – I’d be transferring to another campus in a heartbeat. God bless!
Another example of why the separation of church and state is such a great idea! Yeah! So, at Liberty University, there ain’t much “liberty” when it comes to school clubs eh? As long as you “preach” and support the views – political, social and spiritual – of the school, you kiddies have the right to assemble – and possess free speech. Brian Diaz is right when he says it sounds like censorship. If I were a student at LU – republican or democrat – I’d be transferring to another campus in a heartbeat. God bless!
So let’s get this straight: Liberty University is still happy to endorse the Republican Club, even though some of its national figures have included adulterers, liars, murderers, and coveters; the egotistical, prideful, greedy, and callous; & advocated policies that promoted poor stewardship of the earth and further oppressed the disadvantaged and poor. There are errant humans in every political system. The religious right should at least attempt to judge consistently. Liberty U’s sad decision seems more based on the words of Rush Limbaugh than of Christ. Scary.
So let’s get this straight: Liberty University is still happy to endorse the Republican Club, even though some of its national figures have included adulterers, liars, murderers, and coveters; the egotistical, prideful, greedy, and callous; & advocated policies that promoted poor stewardship of the earth and further oppressed the disadvantaged and poor. There are errant humans in every political system. The religious right should at least attempt to judge consistently. Liberty U’s sad decision seems more based on the words of Rush Limbaugh than of Christ. Scary.
I thought we kicked out the loyalists after the revolutiion
I thought we kicked out the loyalists after the revolutiion
Christians are so intolerant and close minded its sad that they have to be scared of everything.
Christians are so intolerant and close minded its sad that they have to be scared of everything.
Hate crimes are a manifestation of discrimination towards specific groups of people (I.E. LGBT). How can LU say they do not tolerate a category of human beings, yet say it is not legitimate to persecute people for being in certain categories (not that it is, but the value system is totally contradictory). LU’s act of shunning anyone identified with queer identity IS a form of hate crime.
Hate crimes are a manifestation of discrimination towards specific groups of people (I.E. LGBT). How can LU say they do not tolerate a category of human beings, yet say it is not legitimate to persecute people for being in certain categories (not that it is, but the value system is totally contradictory). LU’s act of shunning anyone identified with queer identity IS a form of hate crime.
I swear that I will punch a kitten the next time I hear someone say the “Democrat Club”. It is the DemocratIC Party. DemocratIC. You’re not proving some clever partisan point by removing those two letters – you’re proving that you are as willing to torture the English language as you are detainees.
I swear that I will punch a kitten the next time I hear someone say the “Democrat Club”. It is the DemocratIC Party. DemocratIC. You’re not proving some clever partisan point by removing those two letters – you’re proving that you are as willing to torture the English language as you are detainees.
What a double standard. I have voted Republican in every election except this one. And, I still feel I did the right thing…I really don’t believe God favors any party. If Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, Anne Coulter, Newt Gingrich are the examples of true Christianity then what is the world coming too.
Liberty University, you have just made a statement that God can be defined…”What a major mistake.”
What a double standard. I have voted Republican in every election except this one. And, I still feel I did the right thing…I really don’t believe God favors any party. If Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, Anne Coulter, Newt Gingrich are the examples of true Christianity then what is the world coming too.
Liberty University, you have just made a statement that God can be defined…”What a major mistake.”
I was niether surprised at LU or the reactions stated here. A place of learning can not be a government or religious order. Just another display of interest groups trying to force assimulation. I would have rather not seen this ban. I think Christian values are very much lacking in both political parties and quite simply, the more Christians in there the better. As George Washington predicted in his 1796 farewell speech; political parties and thier self-interests, will soon cause the death of our nation. Obama didn’t win because people turned Democrat, he won because Independants chose the candidate who most appealed to the common good. A true Christian voter did likewise. No true Christian is for abortion or LGBT agenda, but he loves and prays for those who are, and doesn’t drive them away.
I was niether surprised at LU or the reactions stated here. A place of learning can not be a government or religious order. Just another display of interest groups trying to force assimulation. I would have rather not seen this ban. I think Christian values are very much lacking in both political parties and quite simply, the more Christians in there the better. As George Washington predicted in his 1796 farewell speech; political parties and thier self-interests, will soon cause the death of our nation. Obama didn’t win because people turned Democrat, he won because Independants chose the candidate who most appealed to the common good. A true Christian voter did likewise. No true Christian is for abortion or LGBT agenda, but he loves and prays for those who are, and doesn’t drive them away.
There is nothing ‘Christian’ in the slightest about this issue or regarding the actions taken. Those who feel a ‘Christian University’ has the right to set a standard that violates an AMERICANs’ right to peacefully assemble (refer to NAACP v. Alabama), should lose their right to federal funding, because they are now making a distinction that is clearly a violation of the Establishment Clause, because it places the Federal, and State, government in danger of violating the LU’s Free Exercise Clause as well as the Federal, and State’s, Freedom of Association. After all, if they are truly setting a standard, than that standard should apply to all areas, not just ‘clubs’ – no federal funding, no federal financial aid, no state support, no state acknowledgement. You can argue that ‘Democrats’ can choose to go elsewhere for school, but if that is the case, than LU should lose accreditation for all its secular subjects, because the constitutional violations (ultimately, forcing them into the position of losing university status, and just maybe, retaining seminary status, at best).
I hope the LU Dems have already contacted the ACLU (for violation of the civil liberties and civil rights) and ACLJ (for violation for their right to be a ‘Christian’ and ‘Democrat’ in the same school) to file suit. I also hope they contact every REAL ‘Christian’ organization in the areas (especially Quakers and Methodists), because its time that this university of the Christian Right is taken on and there blatant inhumanitarianism and Republican cronyism is put in its place.
There is nothing ‘Christian’ in the slightest about this issue or regarding the actions taken. Those who feel a ‘Christian University’ has the right to set a standard that violates an AMERICANs’ right to peacefully assemble (refer to NAACP v. Alabama), should lose their right to federal funding, because they are now making a distinction that is clearly a violation of the Establishment Clause, because it places the Federal, and State, government in danger of violating the LU’s Free Exercise Clause as well as the Federal, and State’s, Freedom of Association. After all, if they are truly setting a standard, than that standard should apply to all areas, not just ‘clubs’ – no federal funding, no federal financial aid, no state support, no state acknowledgement. You can argue that ‘Democrats’ can choose to go elsewhere for school, but if that is the case, than LU should lose accreditation for all its secular subjects, because the constitutional violations (ultimately, forcing them into the position of losing university status, and just maybe, retaining seminary status, at best).
I hope the LU Dems have already contacted the ACLU (for violation of the civil liberties and civil rights) and ACLJ (for violation for their right to be a ‘Christian’ and ‘Democrat’ in the same school) to file suit. I also hope they contact every REAL ‘Christian’ organization in the areas (especially Quakers and Methodists), because its time that this university of the Christian Right is taken on and there blatant inhumanitarianism and Republican cronyism is put in its place.
The late Jerry Falwell often emphasized, when giving spiritual talks, that “we believe in the premillennial, pre-tribulational return of Christ.” Readers wishing to obtain some historical background on this theological phrase are invited to read “Pretrib Rapture Dishonesty” on the “Powered by Christ Ministries” site. Since the same 179-year-old, fringe-British-invented, American-merchandised-for-political-agendas “pre-tribulation rapture” view has long had a distinguished record of suppressing and even banning other end-time views, it is no surprise that “Liberty” University has adopted an un-American attitude towards campus Democrats!
The late Jerry Falwell often emphasized, when giving spiritual talks, that “we believe in the premillennial, pre-tribulational return of Christ.” Readers wishing to obtain some historical background on this theological phrase are invited to read “Pretrib Rapture Dishonesty” on the “Powered by Christ Ministries” site. Since the same 179-year-old, fringe-British-invented, American-merchandised-for-political-agendas “pre-tribulation rapture” view has long had a distinguished record of suppressing and even banning other end-time views, it is no surprise that “Liberty” University has adopted an un-American attitude towards campus Democrats!
This is great! Liberty should have never endorsed a democratic club in the first place! It is a christian college with christian standards! Obama and the democratic party obviously stand for abortion, homesexuality, and socialism. I have friends that are gay… and I love them… however I hate what they do, and Im sure Liberty feels the same way… love the sinner hate the sin! I applaud Liberty for taking a stand against the democrats who are stupid enough to vote someone into office who is no more capable of running a country then a lemonaid stand!
This is great! Liberty should have never endorsed a democratic club in the first place! It is a christian college with christian standards! Obama and the democratic party obviously stand for abortion, homesexuality, and socialism. I have friends that are gay… and I love them… however I hate what they do, and Im sure Liberty feels the same way… love the sinner hate the sin! I applaud Liberty for taking a stand against the democrats who are stupid enough to vote someone into office who is no more capable of running a country then a lemonaid stand!