After reading Jason Reeses commentary in the December 22 issue [of the Oklahoma Gazette], I feel compelled to address a couple of points. As one of those rogue liberals who find themselves in what feels to be an increasingly hostile red state, Id first like to make the point that political and ideological differences exist within states, not just between states. There are plenty of non-conservatives in Oklahoma, and every other red state for that matter. We may not be the majority, but we pay the same taxes, vote in the same elections, and deserve to have our opinions heard and respected as well.

Secondly, Mr. Reese brings up the issue of separation of church and state, using the example of the Nativity scene controversy in Mustang. He may find it surprising that some individuals (even in Oklahoma) may actually consider the separation of church and state an important concept, and are not expressing the opinion merely for fear of a disapproving glance from the courts or the ACLU. I am not religious myself, but I enthusiastically support the right of others to express their faith in their place of worship or their homes. I have no desire to deny religion to anyone. I dont, however, understand this apparent need to have ones religious beliefs plastered across public schools and government buildings. Why is it not enough to practice ones faith in your home or place of worship? Since those who are religious (specifically Christian) appear to constitute the large majority in Oklahoma, its intriguing to me that many seem to be so threatened by a few in the minority who have no intention of depriving them of their right to practice their faith. No one is saying that religion should be abolished, all we ask is a little respect for our beliefs, or lack thereof, and the common courtesy of not having it shoved down our throats. Because it would be incredibly difficult to represent every religious affiliation in public school holiday pageants and on government property, it seems the logical conclusion to avoid all overt references to religion in the public sphere in order to avoid the appearance of favor for one faith over another.