Tag: Amish

In a display of irony, the Supreme Court acknowledges that people need a sufficient educational background in order to actively participate in a democratic society. However, they approved a case that intentionally restricts a child’s education, in order to appease the desire of those in charge to prevent social exposure and higher knowledge.

Dr. John A. Hostetler, in one sentence, takes all choice away. In one sentence, he proclaims that the religious right of the parent includes dictating the entire life of their child.

This case document almost feels unreal, like I’m reading a dystopian novel. It’s like every child of the Amish had their futures decided for them before they can even read.

The Amish are holding their youth back and not acknowledging how difficult it is for them to make it in the outside world. But that is the whole point: they want to keep the educational deprivation cycle going.

Attorney William Ball somehow successfully argued that because no crimes are reported in the Amish community, no crimes — including child abuse — have been committed. In the age of the #MeToo movement, an implication like that would never stand in the courtroom of today. Ball’s statement is grossly unjust.

Taking away a child’s rights to education also takes away their future, and ensures that the child lives the way that the parents want them to live, instead of letting them decide that for themselves.