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This week, a federal district court judge ruled against high school football coach Joe Kennedy, who’s endured a grueling five-year legal battle as he seeks to reclaim his constitutional rights.
In its decision, bound by the Ninth Circuit’s earlier decision, the court ruled in favor of the Bremerton (WA) School District, who years ago fired Coach Joe because fans and students could see him take a knee in silent prayer after football games.
Though today we are disappointed that the federal district court did not give Coach Kennedy the justice he deserves, there is still hope for a final victory.
This most recent decision isn’t the end of the road and our fight is far from over.
Watch the short video below as Mike Berry, General Counsel for First Liberty Institute, explains the recent decision and what it means going forward in Coach Joe Kennedy’s case:
If anyone knows what it means to take a stand for what you believe, it’s Coach Joe. For almost five long years, he’s had to miss coaching the game he loves, yet he’s shown tremendous courage and resolve when adversity has come his way.
And as many of you know, as a retired Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant who did a combat tour during Operation Desert Storm, he knows first-hand the sacrifices one must make for the freedoms we enjoy—especially the freedom to live out one’s faith.
So, just as he did not give up when he was fighting overseas...our legal team won’t give up in this fight until we reach a final vindication of his rights.
As First Liberty prepares to move the chains, it’s important to remember that our legal team has an important statement from four Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court telling us that the court is open to reviewing this case in the future.
And that’s a vital sign of hope for an ultimate triumph in Coach Joe’s case. We have an opportunity to set an important precedent at the U.S. Supreme Court in the future.
Coach Joe is a man of heroic persistence and courage. Like him, we need you to stand steadfast and go All In with us to help take the next step forward to winning his case and setting an important precedent for our nation.
John, will you consider making a critical financial donation right now?
Because Coach Joe took a knee to pray at the 50-yard line, we’re urging you to donate $50 or more to help First Liberty keep fighting for his right, and your right, to freely live out your faith.
Remember, the outcome of this case not only affects the rights of Coach Joe, but the religious freedom of every coach and every American—including you.
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