Odessa

Jennifer Keeton is pursuing a master's degree in Georgia State's Counselor Education Program. She has had multiple incidents where she has expressed her beliefs that homosexuality and sexual identity that differs from one's chromosomes are lifestyle choices. She even classifies gays as suffering from "gender confusion". Since the facility is concerned about her stance on these issues they want her to have "diversity sensitivity training" or be expelled. She is
suing the University for discriminating against her Christian views

On one hand, we have the constitutional right to believe what ever we want. If the purpose of the "diversity sensitivity training" is to change her core belief it is not only unconstitutional but it is likely destined to fail considering her strong convictions. However, on the other hand, if she will ultimately seek employment in a public school (which is possible), she may behave in a way that is unconstitutional toward those she counsels. The last thing a counselor should be doing is telling someone she is assigned to help, particularly a young person who is exploring their sexual orientation, "You need to turn away from your morally depraved ways".

Fact is, if you want your views valued and respected you need to respect the views of others. Unfortunately those with opinions at polar ends of the spectrum have a hard time respecting those that do not at least partially share those opinions. If Miss Keeton doesn't get that her beliefs are irrelevant to the problems of someone else, then she should be expelled. She should have failed a few classes, too (which there is some indication that her writing skills need some improvement). She seems to have missed the point that counselors are supposed to counsel not judge. If she has a problem with that then she is pursuing the wrong degree and maybe she should consider changing majors to theology. Staff of the University of Georgia has a right to be concerned whether Miss Keeton can serve all people regardless of sexual orientation without bias.

Those like Miss Keeton are bringing the 1st Amendment into a "Catch 22" situation. The government cannot interfere with an individual's right to worship or believe. Individuals cannot be discriminated against due to their religious beliefs. However, our institutions are made up of individuals, all with their own views and opinions. So what happens when an individual's religious beliefs are in conflict with what are considered standards held by individuals already practicing that profession? What happens when an individual in a position of authority (or may be aspiring to such a position) wants to impose those views on someone vulnerable to them (for example, a student being counseled at school)?

If she wins this round it is likely one round of many court battles for Miss Keeton. The first now to get her degree. Then when no school will hire her, she sue for discrimination again. Then once she brow beats someone into hiring her, the parents of a gay or lesbian student will haul her ass into court. Yup, square peg, meet round hole. Get hammer of the law and smack really, really hard till something gives.