Inclusive Religious Education for Texas Schools

As an Ahmadi Muslim parent, Qasim Choudhary believes including religious education in school curricula can be beneficial, provided it's done inclusively. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has an opportunity to teach students about major world religions and non-religious perspectives in a balanced, unbiased manner.

In the UK, religious education has been compulsory since 1944, initially focusing on Christianity but evolving to include other faiths and visits to diverse places of worship. Choudhary encourages Texas to adopt this inclusive model to nurture informed and empathetic children.

Qasim Choudhary, Imam of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community (Austin Chapter), Georgetown

Keep Texas a Leader in Clean Energy Investments

In response to the August 18 op-ed, “By embracing free-market policies, Texas can be the leader in energy,” Kalpana Sutaria argues that Texas must continue investing in clean energy responsibly.

Texas leads in oil, gas, and renewable energy production but is also the biggest emitter of greenhouse gases. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides investment incentives for clean energy growth and emission reduction, benefiting red states and GOP districts most, with Texas among the top five.

Sutaria urges Texas to maintain leadership in clean energy investments to support growth, reduce emissions, and improve life quality.

Kalpana Sutaria, Citizens' Climate Lobby, Austin

Doug Emhoff Sounds Like "One of Us"

Richard Cherwitz, a Jewish American, praises Doug Emhoff's speech at the Democratic National Convention for its authenticity and effectiveness in addressing hate and antisemitism.

Emhoff's genuine delivery and personal story resonated with Cherwitz, who found it refreshing and convincing, giving it an "A" grade. He believes Emhoff's speech proves that one doesn't need to be a trained orator to deliver a powerful message.

Richard Cherwitz, Ph.D., Camas, Washington

Put Texas Public School Students First, Not Politics

Rebecca English criticizes Texas for sitting on a $32.7 billion budget surplus while teachers and schools face resource shortages. She argues that better-funded schools lead to lower dropout rates, increased college enrollment, and reduced crime rates.

English urges legislators to prioritize children's education and voters to hold their representatives accountable.

Rebecca English, Georgetown

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