"A few thoughts: just because the WTS can hide behind the Bill of Rights here doesn't mean they can get away with that everywhere. I can see some Nordic countries possibly coming down on them for these outrages. And US hegemony is fading away into history.....", metatron
They can hide behind the Bill of Rights in respect to LAW. You too can hide behind the Bill of Rights against laws that violate your rights! However, when it comes to people, the public, information, and education- the WTB&TS has no defense at all. Remove the Bill of Rights and give the government a hammer to beat the WTB&TS into submission, all good and fine. But the government still has the hammer...
"In addition, exposure such as Barb does (magnificent!), can hit the WTS indirectly - as with getting government officials to see them correctly as heartless cultists who exploit and injure families.", metatron
Who cares about government officials and legislators?! Get FAMILIES to see them as "heartless culitsts that exploit and injure families." Then you'll have real change.
"This subject is a bit interesting, and confusing. Are we not agreeing to what we see happening as a hindrance to human rights through the practice of Shunning? I don't care about the Scientologists, Quakers, Adventists etc. I care about some family members who are affected by a bullying tactic. I still want the JW's to have the religious right, but not Hatred rights. Just like any Nation has a right to rule their country, but, this does not allow the practice of prejudice,and mental abuse. What is a Human Rights principle? Has mankind mastered the quality of kindness that we should stop fighting for it right now. Lately, we find the WT, Catholics taken a passive approach towards Homosexuality. The message is love the person, but not the practice, Don't become Homo phobic. But, for someone that no longer wants to beleive the same as they used to believe he/she is Mentally ill?
The WT is broken on this matter. Any attention or public announcement to this violation of Human rights should be addressed." , Quarterback
I wonder, can you define the human right that is being violated? What do you mean by "Hatred rights"? See, my issue is basically this: I don't like the WT shunning either. It ticks me off. But the last thing I want to do is use the rule of law when it comes to matters that aren't (or can't) be objectively defined. You say you don't feel that the WT should be allowed the practice of prejudice and mental abuse. Ok, judment against what they feel is wrong? Like, say, homosexuality? Sex out of marriage? Smoking? Aren't we talking about forcing them to accept these practices now?
MMM
