In a remarkable 7-2 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has said that states can deny academic scholarships to students studying to become ministers. NY Times story here.
Scalia wrotte in a dissent shared with Thomas: “Let there be no doubt: This case is about discrimination against a religious minority.”
Rehnquist wrote for the majority: “It does not deny to ministers the right to participate in the political affairs of the community. And it does not require students to choose between their religious beliefs and receiving a government benefit. The state has merely chosen not to fund a distinct category of instruction.”
Let the debate begin.
