Sectarian refers to something that is connected to a distinct group of individuals who adhere to a specific religion. For instance, a sectarian college is an educational institution that is associated with a particular religious community.
Sectarianism is an adjective that pertains to something associated with a particular religious group or sect. For instance, the sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland involved Catholics and Protestants. This illustrates how sectarianism can result in conflicts between different religious groups. In Northern Ireland, the conflict arose due to the differing beliefs and practices of Catholics and Protestants. The sectarian divide was so profound that it led to violence and political instability. Another example is the university’s sectarian policy, which only allowed students from a specific religious background to enroll. This demonstrates how sectarianism can impact access to education. Such a policy restricts opportunities for students from other backgrounds and is neither fair nor inclusive.
No, it is illegal to discriminate against someone based on their religious beliefs under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution and various federal and state laws.
Religious organisations are generally exempt from certain anti-discrimination laws when it comes to hiring individuals who do not share their religious beliefs. However, there are limitations to this exemption, and it is advisable to consult an attorney to understand the specific circumstances.
Public schools in the United States are prohibited from promoting or endorsing any specific religion. However, they may offer objective and neutral education about various religions as part of a broader curriculum.
Employers cannot force employees to participate in religious activities or discriminate against them based on their religious beliefs. Employees have the right to practice their religion freely, and employers must reasonably accommodate their religious needs, unless it poses an undue hardship.
Generally, businesses cannot refuse service to someone based on their religious beliefs. Anti-discrimination laws protect individuals from being denied goods or services based on their religion, among other protected characteristics.
Religious leaders can be held liable for their own actions, but they are generally not held responsible for the actions of their followers unless they directly incite or encourage illegal activities.
Religious organisations, like any other entity, can be sued for defamation if they make false statements that harm someone’s reputation. However, proving defamation requires meeting specific legal elements, such as showing that the statement was false and caused harm.
In some cases, religious practices may be exempt from certain laws if they substantially burden the free exercise of religion. However, these exemptions are subject to strict scrutiny and must meet certain legal standards.
Religious organisations are generally exempt from federal income tax under the Internal Revenue Code, provided they meet certain criteria. However, they may still be subject to other taxes, such as property taxes, depending on local laws.
Yes, religious leaders can be sued for sexual misconduct if they engage in inappropriate behavior or abuse their position of power. Victims have the right to seek legal recourse and hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of their religious affiliation.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/sectarian/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Sectarian. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/sectarian/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Sectarian. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/sectarian/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Sectarian. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/sectarian/
Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.
All author posts