A Christian after-school club organization filed a lawsuit Tuesday against the Hawaii State Department of Education, alleging it has been banned from operating clubs on several elementary school campuses.
Hawaii Children's Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) applied to become a registered club in multiple schools across the state in 2022 and 2023, but was denied approval in both cases. according to for complaints. The group alleges in its lawsuit that the department and school district discriminate against the Good News Club because of its religious beliefs while allowing other secular clubs to operate on campus. (Related: Church files lawsuit to protect homeless ministry after city officials threaten criminal charges)
“For nearly two years, Defendants have prevented CEF from hosting elementary school Good News Clubs at certain district facilities that are similarly located and open to other secular organizations,” the complaint states. ing. “Defendants' policies of unequal access to CEF's religious messages, pretext denial, and hostility violate the Constitution and provide free, positive, character-building programs that enrich the lives of countless other Hawaii students.” denying some Hawaii elementary school students access to the Good News Club, which helps students in their schools and across the country.
A kindergarten teacher prepares for a classroom lockdown drill on Oahu, Hawaii, on February 18, 2003. (Photo by Phil Mislinski/Getty Images)
One school told CEF it could not be approved “because it is religious,” while another claimed it did not have enough space. One principal said he “didn't like the idea of holding a Good News Club meeting in an elementary school,” and some follow-up requests were simply ignored, according to the complaint.
Liberty Counsel, representing CEF, said in the complaint that the department, through Defendant Superintendent and other officials, has denied each of these use requests submitted by CEF and has expressly or factually denied all appeals. ” he explained.
“The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that public schools may not discriminate against Christian views regarding the use of school facilities,” said Matt Staver, founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel. press release. “Child Evangelism Fellowship provides children with a Bible-based education that includes moral and character development. Good News Clubs should be located in all public elementary schools, including schools in Hawaii. I will.”
The Hawaii Department of Education did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the Daily Caller News Foundation.
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