A legal battle is brewing in Michigan as Bethany Christian Services, a nonprofit organization with Christian roots, has filed a lawsuit against the state government. The crux of the issue lies in the organization’s requirement for its employees to adhere to its statement of faith, which the state deemed unacceptable when it came to providing funds for refugee resettlement services.
This lawsuit, lodged in federal district court, accuses the state of religious discrimination, challenging the Michigan Office of Global Michigan’s (OGM) decision to sever ties based on the organization’s policies regarding employee faith. “Federal law is clear, and the courts have repeatedly affirmed that 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations like ours can hire staff and select leaders who share the organization’s faith mission,” stated Nhung Hurst, General Counsel for Bethany Christian Services, expressing her disappointment over the situation.
According to Bethany, such requirements are a fundamental part of operating as a faith-based entity. Hurst pointed out that similar practices are upheld for nonprofits of different faiths, asserting that it is a long-standing American civil right. The organization’s statement of faith, The Apostle’s Creed, is one of Christianity’s foundational texts. Hurst elaborated on the organization’s commitment to helping vulnerable populations, stating, “Bethany remains deeply committed to serving vulnerable children and families, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive, even as we work to protect our legal rights.”
The lawsuit seeks to enjoin the OGM from terminating existing contracts while the legal proceedings unfold. It highlights that in late 2023, the OGM questioned Bethany’s hiring practices, which ultimately led to the denial of grant funding for the following year. This latest legal challenge isn’t the first time the nonprofit has found itself in conflict with state policies; in 2019, Bethany agreed to begin placing foster children with same-sex couples after facing legal pressure over its previous refusal to do so.
Furthermore, earlier this year, the organization faced internal criticism regarding its hiring practices, which had become more stringent. In response, Bethany emphasized its dedication to fostering a respectful workplace, stating that like many religious organizations, it expects its employees to comply with core beliefs and maintain a neutral stance on political matters.
The lawsuit reflects a broader conversation about the intersection of faith, employment practices, and government policies, a dialogue that continues to unfold across various sectors.
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