As you know, we've been vigorously engaging the grassroots to oppose HB 4474 and 4475, which created criminal and civil repercussions against anyone whose exercise of speech is perceived to be... View in Browser Happy Independence Day! “Equal laws protecting equal rights—the best guarantee of loyalty and love of country.” – James Madison We wanted to send you some good news (for once) as we enter this joyful holiday of celebrating America's independence and freedom. We hope you have a wonderful Fourth of July with your family. God bless! Unconstitutional Hate Crime Bills on Hold After Recent Supreme Court Ruling As you know, we've been vigorously engaging the grassroots to oppose HB 4474 and 4475, which created criminal and civil repercussions against anyone whose exercise of speech is perceived to be offensive—a truly slippery slope towards shutting down free speech of any kind. Click here to read our testimony. These bills passed the House and were about to head straight to the Senate floor. But on Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 in favor of free speech in Counterman v. Colorado, supporting many of the same arguments we've been making against the hate speech bills, along with Salt & Light Global. We're happy to report that these bills have been pulled from the Senate agenda. If they come up again, they'll likely be rewritten in a way that does not violate our constitutionally protected right to religious liberty and free speech. This is an answer to the prayers of many! We will continue to keep an eye on this and update you if things change. "Go Local" Conference Coming to Southwest Michigan July 29th! You won your election... Now what? How do you apply the principles of good governance in your new position? Maybe you’re a pastor or citizen facing difficult cultural issues impacting your community. What is your role from a biblical perspective? Join us Sat, July 29th for "Go Local," a dynamic training that will equip you with practical tools for servant-statesmanship. Lunch and a resource folder will be provided to all attendees. Register today at CTVMichigan.org/GoLocal Click Here for More Details “Worth the time! The speakers were very knowledgeable and insightful.” — Craig S, precinct delegate “If you want to be encouraged to persevere, emboldened to get involved, and receive practical strategies, this training will be invaluable.” — Don F, engaged citizen U.S. Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Religious Freedom for Web Designer In a 6-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of Christian web designer Lorie Smith, declaring that she cannot be forced against her will to create wedding sites for same-sex couples. To do so would be a violation of her First Amendment right against compelled speech. This is a significant victory for religious liberty in America! Read more about it by clicking here. Additional Rulings: The U.S. Supreme Court has made several more rulings recently apart from the two we've already mentioned. You can view all of them in detail by clicking here. Below are some of the highlights. Groff v. DeJoy — The Court ruled unanimously that a Christian postal worker has the right to refuse to work on Sundays for religious reasons. This strengthens protections for employees of faith. Click here for more info. Biden v. Nebraska & Department of Education v. Brown — The Court ruled 6-3 against Biden's student debt forgiveness plan. Click here for more info. Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College — The Court ruled 6-3 against taking race into account for university admissions. Click here for more info. “Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.”  — 1 Peter 2:16 (ESV) Consider How You Can Support CTV Citizens for Traditional Values relies on support from passionate citizens like you. Your prayer and financial contributions enable us to be effective as we stand for truth in local communities and beyond. Donate   Citizens for Traditional Values | PO Box 80295, Lansing, MI 48908 Unsubscribe [email protected] Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected] powered by Try email marketing for free today!