Congratulations to the Senate HELP Committee for finally acting responsibly on Head Start. After years of attempts to politicize Head Start by allowing providers to commit religious discrimination in choosing teachers and volunteers, the Senate finally reauthorized the program without the language that would allow this unconstitutional practice. The current bill, S. 556, is a very positive step forward towards safeguarding this vital and successful government program. We cannot allow tax-payer dollars to subsidize Head Start providers that refuse to hire teachers and volunteers solely because they are of a different faith tradition.
The Interfaith Alliance calls on the full Senate and the House to follow the example set by the Senate HELP Committee. The uplifting opportunities that Head Start provides should be made available to all eligible families, regardless of their religious affiliation.