Religion vs. Rights

http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/t/story/arizona-governor-held-meetings-rights-bill-22688951

The governor of Arizona vetoed a bill that passed both the state Senate and House, that would allow business owners to refuse service to customers on the grounds of religious beliefs. This bill caused an uproar over the hypothetical effect on LGBT rights that it would have, and many people and companies urged Governor Jan Brewer to veto the bill.

We learned about this when we studied checks and balances and separation of powers.

I believe that this bill could lead to heavy discrimination, and I am glad that it was vetoed.

Privacy is Hidden in the Terms and Conditions

http://news.cnet.com/8301-1009_3-57618006-83/how-big-brothers-going-to-peek-into-your-connected-home/

Personal security has long been questioned, but with the growing number of smart devices in our lives, it has become more and more uncertain. It is becoming easier for our technology to be hacked into, everything from cell phones to baby monitors. People have been notified of many of the hacks and information leaks, but they are not aware of any more. Now that we are in a time when smart homes are a distinct future possibility, the people need to be assured that they still have privacy.

This relates to our study of the argument between small and large government, as well as the debate over personal security.

A Rainbow Russia

http://abcnews.go.com/International/russian-lawmaker-suggests-gay-athletes-prosecuted-2014-winter/t/story?id=19829868

Just before they were to host the 2014 Winter Olympics, Russia banned "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations." Although it is worded in a seemingly non-offensive way, the statement is burning with anti-LGBT implications. Tension is thick between Russia and many other countries, because any openly gay athletes could be prosecuted. The national government has stated that it will impose federal punishment against those who show any sign of homosexuality or support for the LGBT community. President Obama even chose three openly gay U.S. athletes to lead our nation in the Olympics. (The Colbert Report) Our country shows its support for its people, no matter what, and it will protect them.

Our class this semester will talk about interaction between countries, such as this issue. 

I wish that we as a country had boycotted these Olympics, although I know we didn't and wouldn't. I stand against any discrimination, and hope that the people of this country will do the same.