The state of Queensland in Australia has proposed prohibiting school children from talking about Jesus, The Australian reports.
In March, education officials published a review of religious instructions used in primary schools. The review found out that students talking about Jesus in the playground could be considered evangelizing those who do not take religion classes.
In the “Jesus ban,” giving out Christmas cards, making Christmas tree decorations, composing Gospel songs or poems, and talking about Jesus outside the classroom are prohibited.
The Queensland Department of Education and Training thinks that this creates an “unsafe” environment and school principals are advised to prevent this from happening.
According to three departmental reviews into religious instruction materials, evangelizing “could adversely affect the school’s ability to provide a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for all students.”
In the “Jesus ban,” giving out Christmas cards, making Christmas tree decorations, composing Gospel songs or poems, and talking about Jesus outside the classroom are prohibited.
Education Minister Kate Jones was quick to deny any change in policy on religious instruction. “The policy in place in Queensland state schools today…has been the same for more than 20 years.” She added that, “No one is telling a child what they can and can’t say in the playground.”
Religious lead