The Norman Transcript

Religion

Discussion

September 26, 2012

Lawmaker looks to repeal Oklahoma blasphemy law

The Norman Transcript

OKLAHOMA CITY — In light of the recent global controversy over freedom of speech and religion that has exploded in violent protests allegedly related to an anti-Islamic internet film, state District 81 Rep. Randy Grau said Tuesday he intends to file legislation that would repeal Oklahoma’s current blasphemy law.

 

“Most Oklahomans would be surprised to find out that they could be charged with a crime for insulting a person’s religion,” said Grau, R-Edmond.

 

Grau said there is an international movement underway to establish a worldwide blasphemy law that would inhibit a person’s freedom to criticize or question another’s religion.

 

“Our American ideals of liberty, including free speech and expression, are under attack.”

 

The Oklahoma statute, located in Title 21, Sections 901-903, has been on the books for more than a century.

 

“While I do not support the gratuitous disparagement of another’s religious views, I do believe it is necessary to stand up for free speech even when it is unpopular to do so,” said Grau. “We do and should have the right to openly debate or question any issue.”

Text Only | Photo Reprints
Religion
  • Journey mobilizes volunteers

    JourneyChurch.tv Norman Campus, 3801 Journey Parkway is a tornado relief headquarters and donation hub for Moore tornado victims....

    May 24, 2013

  • McFarlin launches ‘The Bible in 90 Days program

    With this week’s tragic events in Moore, several have turned to prayer and, more specifically, the Bible to find comfort and peace....

    May 24, 2013

  • So what do you think God is up to these days?

    A little bird tells us Last Sunday afternoon as I was leaving our church, I noticed a new, 4-foot cross sculpture appeared to be tilting a bit. When I walked out to its ring of river rocks, a small bird began sharply trilling at me....

    May 24, 2013

  • Finding peace amidst the chaos

    We have all been impacted by the devastation of the Moore tornado. Friends and neighbors left with nothing — no homes, no vehicles, no places of work — nothing. All of us grieving the death of children, neighbors and loved ones. As we ...

    May 24, 2013

  • Speaker series to wrap up May 23

    The United Church of Norman-UCC’s speaker series, “The Progressive Sermon I Always Wanted to Preach …,” will feature its final speaker, the Rev. Phil Fenn, at 7 p.m. Thursday at the United Church of Norman-UCC, 1017 Elm Ave. The six-part ...

    May 17, 2013

  • New Life Bible Church prepares for ‘Summer Blockbusters’

    When Daryn Kirkpatrick’s day care provider gave her a bucket of popcorn two years ago, she never imagined it would be the ticket that would lead her family to their new church home....

    May 17, 2013

  • LDS church to honor grads

    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will host a graduation ceremony for the class of 2013 seminary and institute graduates at 6 p.m. Sunday in the chapel of the Norman meetinghouse, 1506 W. Imhoff Road....

    May 17, 2013

  • The humbling height of glory

    From a capsule suspended in space Oct. 14, some 24 miles above Roswell, N.M., Felix Baumgartner climbed out in a spacesuit, then — teetering on a special built platform for a few seconds — jumped. Within 40 seconds, Baumgartner broke the ...

    May 17, 2013

  • Q&A: Is abortion ever acceptable?

    A soul loses its chance for freedom Arvind Khetia, engineer and Hindu: In Hinduism, a human life is considered a great blessing. Only through human life, with the help of one’s free will, can one choose to do good karma (actions) and ...

    May 10, 2013

  • Westmoore High senior to serve two-year mission in Italy

    Westmoore High School senior Preston John Taylor will leave July 24 to serve a two-year mission in the Italy Milan Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints....

    May 10, 2013