A Christmas Wish – Jay Sekulow

This Christmas, I am gathering with my family to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. We are celebrating a message of hope and love – a message that is so desperately needed these days.

The challenges facing this country and the world are significant. And for many Americans, there is much pain this Christmas season.

But, as Christians, we know that we do not face these challenges and problems alone. We call on a merciful and loving God to provide comfort and healing for the weary, the broken-hearted, the afflicted.

As we pray this Christmas season, please don’t forget about the men and women who defend our nation – those in the Armed Forces – those who risk their lives to protect ours.

At the same time, let’s take a moment to reflect on the tremendous blessings that the Lord has bestowed upon us and our nation.

My Christmas wish for you: May the joy and peace of Christmas be with you and your family now and throughout the New Year.

On behalf of everyone at the ACLJ, Merry Christmas to you and yours!


SOURCE http://www.themoralliberal.com/2012/12/21/a-christmas-wish-jay-sekulow/

Jay Sekulow – Evangelical in the United States of America

As Chief Counsel for ACLJ (the American Centre for Law and Justice) - a leading public law firm specialized in the protection of religious & civil rights in the constitutional law, Jay Sekulow has argued innumerable landmark cases before the United States Supreme Court, that have since become a landmark in the area of religious liberty litigation.

Having argued 12 precedent cases before the US Supreme Court, Mr. Sekulow has helped to create the legitimate landscape of America’s First Amendment jurisprudence. These milestone cases continue to influence the direction of religious litigation to date. In the Westside School District vs. Mergens, he paved the way for public school students to form religious groups and Bible clubs in the school campuses. In Lam’s Chapel vs. Centre Moriches School District case, he defended the rights for free speech of religious associations, so that they can be treated equally when it comes to the utilization of public facilities.

Jay Sekulow, a renowned defender of religious liberty, and an acclaimed judicial attorney, brings his recognized skills and expertise to the Regent Law faculty, and renders current law students with unbeatable opportunities to contribute to the most eminent legal cases of our time.

Furthermore, it provides students with unparalleled opportunities to participate in historic projects such as ACLJ’s recent unanimous Supreme Court triumph in Pleasant Grove City vs. Summum case, wherein his argument resulted in a First Amendment verdict clearing the way for Federal and State governments to accept permanent monuments, for their selection- including the 10 Commandments monuments- in public parks.

While the ACLJ, under the guidance of Jay Sekulow, initiated with the mission to safeguard liberty in the US, its impact can now be seen throughout the globe. Believing that religious freedom is an international right, he incorporated the European Centre for Law and Justice in Strasbourg (France). He serves as the Chief Counsel of ECLJ, with its offices in France, Pakistan, Kenya, Russia and Zimbabwe.

His influence extends far beyond US courtrooms, through his daily FM show Jay Sekulow Live! and the weekly TV program - ACLJ This Week, he reaches a huge audience who fervently supports the cause of religious liberty and life.

Jay Sekulow – Representing Equilibrium with Law and Justice

Jay Sekulow is one of the most distinguished lawyers that the world has ever known. He has gone beyond the norm to raise his voice in behalf of the people who have been suffering because of religious and social oppression. There have been influential cases in which he achieved victory, not only for his clients, but also for humanity.

He is the Chief Counsel for the American Center for Law and Justice, and has definitely lived up to the expectations that people have about him. He has worked for the well-being of so many people, for those who were denied even the basic rights, due to the difficulty or neglect that many people around the world have in understanding the rights of the human race.

Jay Sekulow is also the founder of the ECLJ, which is a European society meant to work in helping those who are struggling from a number of social discrepancies. This is one of the examples of Mr. Sekulow's responsible action towards helping the world. He has been a part of many changes that have been done in the constitution of different countries, on grounds that affect the lives of people every day. He is the pioneer for many record-breaking decisions in the history of any courtroom, and has gone beyond his limits as a lawyer, in helping people to prosper.

On a personal level, he is blessed with a lovely family, which is his main and most important support through tough times. This is another secret, for the professional success he is gained over the years.

Jay Sekulow on Fox News Speaks About Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani's Release

Jay Sekulow on Fox News speaks about Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani's release. Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani was released after over 3 years of imprisonment for his christian faith. After his recent trial he was found not guilty for blasphemy.

Source from http://aclj.org/

Jay Sekulow: Obama Stand Up Against Iran

We have seen firsthand that Iran rejects human rights, rejects international law.  It is time for President Obama to back up words with actions, as Israel is America’s most important ally. Iran is not backing down. Its goal is clear: develop nuclear weapons and destroy Israel.

As Iran continues to flex its political and military muscle on the international scene, Iran and its fast-track development of nuclear weapons is a serious problem. Iran continues to threaten Israel and continues to promise that it will destroy Israel and the Jewish people. Netanyahu understands what’s at stake and knows that Iran’s nuclear program poses a significant danger to both Israel and the U.S.

“Iran has been exposed for being the most irresponsible power on earth today. The one that exports terror with abandon is murdering people and breaking all the rules,” Netanyahu told reporters recently during a one-day visit to Cyprus. “For such a regime to have nuclear weapons is something of enormous concern for the United States and for Israel,” he said.

Israel wants our help. Israel needs our help. And time is running out.
Jay Sekulow is Chief Counsel of ACLJ.  Jay Sekulow is an author and regular commentator for national media outlets.


Source from http://www.jewocity.com/blog/jay-sekulow-obama-stand-up-against-iran/4182

Jay And Jordan Sekulow Announce Support For Mitt Romney

Mitt Romney today announced the support of Jay Sekulow and Jordan Sekulow of the American Center for Law and Justice*.

“Jay and Jordan have been on the front lines fighting for conservatives – it is an honor to have their support,” said Mitt Romney. “On issues of great importance to me, including religious freedom and protecting human life, Jay and Jordan have been tireless leaders. I look forward to working with them to ensure that we can bring conservative change to Washington.”

“In order for conservatives to make the changes in Washington that we have been fighting for, we must first defeat President Obama and have a leader with a proven record of getting things done,” said Jay Sekulow. “Mitt Romney is the one candidate who can take his pro-growth message to the American people and defeat President Obama. Throughout his life, he has proven that he will not back down from difficult situations – fixing the mess that President Obama has left will not be easy.”

“Mitt Romney’s record as governor and vision for our country is one that conservatives should be proud to support,” said Jordan Sekulow. “He cut taxes, balanced budgets, and defended both traditional marriage and life in a politically difficult environment. Mitt Romney’s ability to defeat President Obama and enact conservative change is why I support him and so many conservatives are backing his campaign.”

Background on Jay and Jordan Sekulow

Jay Sekulow is Chief Counsel of the American Center for Law and Justice. He is an accomplished Supreme Court advocate, renowned expert on religious liberty, and a respected broadcaster. Jay Sekulow is an attorney with a passion for protecting religious liberty, freedom, and democracy. For nearly a quarter of a century, he's been on the front lines - working to protect religious and constitutional freedoms in the courts, in Congress, and in the public arena. At the Supreme Court of the United States, Jay Sekulow has argued 12 cases - including several landmark cases which have become part of the legal landscape in the area of religious liberty litigation.

Jordan Sekulow is the Executive Director of the American Center for Law and Justice. He is the host of the Jordan Sekulow Show, a syndicated radio program that provides cutting analysis of today's political and legal landscape and regularly features elected officials and conservative leaders from across the U.S. and around the globe. He also serves as co-host, along with ACLJ Chief Counsel Jay Sekulow, of the Jay Sekulow Live! radio broadcast and the ACLJ This Week television broadcast. Jordan, an attorney, has an LL.M. from Georgetown Law Center and oversees the organization’s international offices.

Jay Sekulow on Fox News: Court Upholds Voter ID Law

Jay Sekulow appeared on Fox News to discuss a court's recent decision to uphold a voter ID law. The Judge issued a lengthy opinion explaining why this law aimed at protecting the integrity and reliability of the election must be allowed to go into effect. This is a major victory in preventing voter fraud.

Source from http://aclj.org/jay-sekulow-fox-news-court-upholds-voter-id-law

Jay Sekulow Plays with Sharon & Ricky Skaggs - Crying My Heart Out Over You

Music legends Sharon & Ricky Skaggs join Jay Sekulow playing Skaggs song "Crying My Heart Out Over You".

Jay Sekulow Against Obama’s Lawsuit Regarding Military Voting Rights

You may have heard about the ongoing discussion of the military voting rights. While everyone seems to have their own opinion, it can become a little difficult for the common people to decide what they want to stand for.

Believe it or not, but to a great extent, we follow the opinion of our role models when it comes to taking a side on issues like these.

I don’t think I need to discuss how well-respected Mr. Jay Sekulow is, which is why when he has an opinion about something, it matters! This time, Mr. Sekulow has publicized his opinion about the lawsuit regarding Military voting rights. I, as an individual, respect his opinion about this lawsuit. After all, the people who have sacrificed their lives to protect us must also be well taken care of.  

A Man of Honor, A Man with Wisdom; that’s how we recognize Jay Sekulow

It is often heard, “When times get tough, the tough get going.” In this so called ‘free-world,’ there are still many issues, such as religious taboos and inhibitions, that bind society, inevitably weakening one section of society and strengthening another.

Jay Sekulow is definitely one of the few people that has contributed immensely toward securing the rights of the people in need. He has been working together with many associations, and has helped many people get over the demons of religious inequalities. He has devoted years of hard-work towards liberating thousands from the pain and shackles of religious inequality.

This is a neglected issue in our society today that most lawyers avoid. In the present era, there are very  few names who can actually be trusted for making a difference in the world. Mr. Sekulow has been one of those few people who has raised a voice against such types of hypocritical attacks that create substantial divisions in groups of people. Very few go that extra mile to do something worthwhile for society. He is well-established and is the chief counsel for the American Center of Law and Justice.

Mr. Sekulow has fought many cases, which have definitely helped in changing the mentality and social structure of many people who have been oppressed in the past due to the pressure of religious and fundamental rights wars.

His aim is to reach to those sections of the society, which have been suffering for a long time, and deliver them to social setting that works for their benefit in the future. He is among those who have been working for the betterment of the society for many years now. Through ultimate humility, great souls like Jay Sekulow are the actual reason for the marginal benefit that the society is witnessing these days in terms of advancement and leaving behind the past to experience the new.

Jay Sekulow: Giving a new meaning to the cause of religious Liberty

Jay Sekulow has constantly made it to the headlines with his efforts when it comes to defending religious liberty. A prolific attorney, Mr. Sekulow has won international acclaim for the protection of causes related to religious liberty, freedom and democracy. Whether it is courts, congress or public arena, he has worked feverishly in becoming the voice of thousands of people across the United States and the world. Mr. Sekulow’s firm The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) is one the preeminent law firms of the country.

Mr. Sekulow is an acclaimed Supreme Court judge, who has argued 12 cases with some bearing landmark results. These cases went on to change the way, religious litigation works. For instance, in the Mergens case, he helped to secure the liberty for students to form Bible clubs and religious organizations. No one ever thought that his fight for religious freedom would transform in to a cause of international outreach. He realized that Christians faced widespread discrimination for practicing their faith. Hence, he took up their cause and started working towards religious liberty.
 
Today American Center for Law and Justice has its sister concerns with the European Centre, Slavic Centre, African Centre and East African Centre. It is also present in countries such as Russia, France, Israel, Pakistan and Zimbabwe.
 
It is evident that hard work and dedication is always rewarded. Mr. Sekulow has won various accolades for his work. TIME magazine has named Jay as the “25 Most Influential Evangelicals” of all time. He has also been named as the "The 90 Greatest Washington Lawyers of the Last 30 Years." The National Law journal has twice named him as "100 Most Influential Lawyers" in the United States. It is common to find his name associated with various causes related to religious causes in the United States today. Some popular cases include that of Obama care, Abortion, American heritage, equal access, fairness doctrine and Israel to name a few.

It is due to the efforts of people like Mr. Jay Sekulow that the issue of religious equality is coming to the forefront worldwide.

Jay Sekulow - Not Like Anybody!

Jay Sekulow can undoubtedly be termed as “brilliant”. He is a man who has tried his hands on so many things that each of those can't be possibly listed. More than anything else, he's been working as an attorney. But he is not just another lawyer, he's the best of all! He has been in the news many times because of the cases he worked on.

This dynamic law enthusiast never limited his abilities to law – and has a successful radio/television call-in talk show about legal issues. Yes, he is a renowned radio host! His talk show is aired on as many as 850 stations.

The man is a guest commentator on FOX news channel, and hosts a TV show 'ACLJ This Week'. He, as a lawyer, is someone who is hard to argue with, and impossible to knock down.

Jay Sekulow has been awarded many times for what he does. To name a few honours, he has been added to National Law Journal’s Power List, in the year 1994 and recently was added to the list of 90 greatest lawyers of last 30 years (Washington) by Legal Times.

Jay Sekulow: Words of Encouragement for Pastor Youcef from the Kids

Millions of people around the globe are calling for the release of Christian pastor Youcef Nadarkhani, who faces the death penalty in Iran because of his Christian faith.

As you already know, we continue to work in this country and abroad to secure his release. There are millions praying for his release from jail, where he’s now been held for nearly three years.

No one puts the words of encouragement for Pastor Youcef better than students in a third-grade class from Elijah House Academy in Richmond, VA.

Their teacher told the students about Pastor Youcef’s plight as an example of a modern day Daniel, who like Pastor Youcef refused to recant his faith in God in the face of execution.

Take a look at these powerful images. Young children understand what’s at stake here.

These school children join a growing list of people around the world who support Pastor Youcef. You can too. Join the ACLJ’s Tweet for Youcef campaign and add your name to our petition calling for his release.

Jay Sekulow

Original post published at http://blog.beliefnet.com/faithandjustice/author/jay_sekulow/

Raise Your Voice to Practice Your Religious Faith, Jay Sekulow will Make it be Heard

Jay Alan Sekulow is the Chief Counsel for the American Centre of Law and Justice (ACLJ) which was founded by Pat Robertson the CBN founder, in order to protect people’s religious and constitutional rights. Jay has presented oral arguments before the US Supreme Court on 12-occasions and has won many landmark victories defending constitutional rights. Sekulow is a champion of life, a formidable antagonist of religious prosecution, a saviour of human rights and a highly respected broadcaster.
He is a frequent guest on the '700 Club', because of his inimitable insight into legal and political concerns and his vast experience in Constitutional law. He is regularly interviewed by many prestigious TV channels like Fox News, ABC and CBN News etc, regarding the critical legal work of ACLJ in protection of religious rights and liberties.
He is the host of a radio program, Jay Sekulow Live! A daily outreach of the ACLJ. Through his radio show, Jay keeps his listeners informed about crucial challenges nationwide regarding liberty and renders them an opportunity to stand in support of ACLJ in defence of religious faith and freedom, garnering tens of thousands of signatures for various causes by means of ACLJ's committees and petitions. Moreover, he is the host of ACLJ This Week; the ACLJ's weekly TV show airs on many networks nationwide.
As a Supreme Court lawyer, Sekulow is widely recognized as one of the legendary saviours of religious liberties and constitutional rights in the US. He has won myriad milestone religious rights cases at the U.S Supreme Court. In the Lamb's Chapel case, he paved the way for missionaries and churches to be allowed equal access to utilize public facilities for religious purposes.
This Man of Pedigree is not just a leading advocate for religious freedom at the U.S Supreme Court, but he is also a stalwart protector for the rights of the unborn. Moreover, he has been rigorously involved in Ten Commandments cases at the U.S Supreme Court, availing unanimous victory in Pleasant Grove for the right of governments to display monuments of the Ten Commandments in parks.
Sekulow's nearly half century of distinguished Court advocacy, has garnered accolades from America's most preeminent publications. Jay has been honoured by Time Magazine as one of the “25- Most Influential Evangelicals in America.” The Legal times has titled him as one of the “90-Greatest Washington Lawyers of the Last Thirty Years.” The American Lawyer named Sekulow to its esteemed “Public Sector 45.”
His passion for protecting and respecting religious rights has led him to expand ACLJ's operations and open up new offices worldwide. Jay Sekulow strongly believes religious liberty is an inalienable, Lord-bestowed right for all human beings around the world.

Jay Sekulow: A Supreme Court Stretch Saves ObamaCare

Now that the ObamaCare decision is out and the analysis continues, there are more questions about how the Chief Justice reached his conclusion that the penalty provided for failing to purchase health care is actually a tax – a distinction that cleared the way for the individual mandate and ObamaCare to be upheld as constitutional.

What’s worth noting here is that President Obama repeatedly sold this health care law saying it was NOT a tax on the American people.

But then the Solicitor General, in oral arguments before the high court, waded into that area – using the tax argument. In the end, Chief Justice Roberts embraced that analysis and a massive government-run, pro-abortion law that had four votes poised to overturn the law, was saved – by the Chief Justice’s vote.

In an interview this morning, I told FOX News I thought the decision was a stretch legally, an overreach that ultimately will expand the power of the federal government, not to mention implementing the largest tax increase in history. YouTube Preview Image

There will be more analysis and debate about all of this in the days ahead. In my view, the Chief Justice got this one wrong. During his confirmation hearings, he used a baseball analogy to describe his role on the high court. He said he would be an umpire on the bench – calling “balls” and “strikes” as he sees them – not to “pitch” or “bat.” In this case, he called a ‘strike’ – millions of Americans – including four Justices poised to overturn ObamaCare – disagreed.

Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney put it best when he noted that while the high court concluded that ObamaCare was constitutional, it did not say that ObamaCare is good law, or good policy. As Romney put it: “Obamacare was bad policy yesterday, it’s bad policy today. Obamacare was bad law yesterday, it’s bad law today.”

Jay Sekulow

Source from here

Jay Sekulow – A man who dedicated his life to serve humanity

Jay Sekulow - a renowned lawyer and a respected human rights activist, who strongly believes in just one thing “we are all God’s children and no one is above the law.”
The Chief Council for ACLJ (American Center for Law and Justice), Sekulow is very popular among the world's most renowned legal and political observers. He is an attorney with tremendous passion for protecting religious liberties, freedom and democracy in the courtrooms, in public and in the upper house.
At the US Supreme court, Jay Alan Sekulow has argued 12 revolutionary cases-including many landmark cases that have become an eminent part of the legal system in the genre of 'religious liberty litigation.'
In the milestone case of the Board of Education of Westside Community Schools v. Mergens,; Sekulow cleared the path for public school students to create religious organizations and Bible clubs in their school premises. Similarly, In McConnell vs. FEC, Jay ensured that minors' constitutional right to free speech remain protected and they cannot be prohibited from voicing their support for a political party or candidate by making a contribution to a political rally or campaign. The Supreme Court unanimously consented with this argument, unequivocally holing that 'minors 'relish the protection of the First Amendment.
Initially, no one could have foreseen that what had started as a mission to defend religious rights in the United States, would comprise as an international outreach. In a world where Christians face violence, discrimination and even brutal death for simply practicing their religion, it soon became evident that there is a lot of effort required to safeguard humanity. Jay Sekulow deeply believes that religious freedom is a universal right and a global concern.
Whether it is raising his voice against discrimination in the name of religion or safeguarding religious liberty abroad or right here at home, he possess a vast track-record of success which has not gone unnoticed. Time Magazine named Sekulow as one of the most influential evangelicals in America; Town Magazine crowned him as “Townhall of Fame and recognized him as “one of the top attorneys in the US.”
Jay Sekulow has spent his career protecting religious liberties; fighting for freedom of speech; instigating pro-life campaigns; and restoring faith in people.

Jay Sekulow: ObamaCare Focus Turns to Congress and Repeal Vote

The fight to challenge ObamaCare is over at the Supreme Court. Now, the focal point is Congress – and specifically the U.S. House of Representatives.

House Speaker John Boehner put it bluntly: “This has to be ripped out by its roots. This is government taking over the entire health industry. The American people do not want to go down this path. It has to be ripped out and we need to start over one step at a time.”

A growing number of Americans understand that the Supreme Court got this one wrong. And, a clear majority of Americans now support repeal of ObamaCare.... Read more: http://blog.beliefnet.com/faithandjustice/2012/07/jay-sekulow-obamacare-congress-repeal-vote.html

Jay Sekulow

Jay Sekulow: SCOTUS Puts AZ in Tough Spot with Immigration

The Supreme Court today unanimously upheld a key provision of Arizona S.B. 1070 – a provision of the law that gives police authority to check the immigration status of a person while enforcing other laws if ‘reasonable suspicion’ exists that the person is in the United States illegally. That’s the good news.

The bad news: the high court struck down a number of other provisions which Arizona was relying on to secure its borders and protect its citizens. And, there’s more bad news. The provision upheld by the high court is actually in jeopardy because of President Obama’s selective enforcement of immigration laws.

Let’s not forget it was just days ago that President Obama actually changed immigration law by simply issuing a directive – an order to stop deporting many young illegal immigrants who were brought to the United States as children.

This did not go unnoticed by Justice Scalia who issued a stinging dissent that put this fact into proper perspective.

“The issue is a stark one: Are the sovereign states at the mercy of the federal executive’s refusal to enforce the nation’s immigration laws? A good way of answering that question is to ask: Would the states conceivably have entered into the union if the Constitution itself contained the court’s holding? If securing its territory in this fashion is not within the power of Arizona, we should cease referring to it as a sovereign state. . . .To say, as the court does, that Arizona contradicts federal law by enforcing applications of federal immigration law that the president declines to enforce boggles the mind.”

As I told Megyn Kelly on FOX News today, Arizona and other states are in a difficult spot now. Even with a constitutional immigration provision upheld by the high court today, we have a president who picks and chooses which laws he wants to enforce. YouTube Preview Image

As you may recall, we represented nearly 60 members of Congress and more than 65,000 Americans in an amicus brief filed with the high court backing Arizona S.B. 1070.

While acknowledging there will be more legal challenges, Arizona Governor Brewer called the high court’s decision to uphold the key provision of the law “a victory for the rule of law.” And the fact is that most Americans not only supported Arizona’s efforts, but wanted the Supreme Court to uphold the entire Arizona immigration law.

Today’s decision, compounded by the continuing overreach of President Obama, raises more questions than it answers when it comes to immigration reform. We will continue to back constitutional measures in Arizona and other states that want to secure their borders and protect their citizens.

Jay Sekulow

Jay Sekulow: Historic Religious Liberty Win – 25 Years Ago Today at Supreme Court

June 15, 1987. I was in Chicago conducting a training program – examining the legal issues – on literature distribution for Jews for Jesus.

Just months earlier, I had delivered oral arguments before the Supreme Court of the United States on behalf of Jews for Jesus – arguing that literature distribution at airports was a constitutionally-protected activity. It was my first time before the high court, a young and nervous attorney, who presented what was then a unique argument.

Instead of relying solely on the premise that such literature distribution was protected by the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment, which had met with limited legal success, I argued that officials at the Los Angeles International Airport actually created a policy forbidding all “First Amendment activities.” My argument was very direct and focused: the policy prohibiting literature distribution violated the free speech rights of my client. My entire argument was aimed at protecting free speech.

You can listen to the oral arguments here.

On that day, June 15, 1987, I knew the Supreme Court would be issuing opinions. There was no internet, no instant communications to find out what the Supreme Court had decided. I placed a call from a pay phone to the Court from Chicago and asked about the status of the case. “A decision has been issued,” the clerk responded. I waited. And then I heard the news. “Nine-zero, unanimous.” I couldn’t believe it. Stunned. That was a very emotional moment.

Each and every Justice agreed that religious speech must be given the same protection as all other protected speech.

The unanimous Court held that the regulation at issue was overbroad on its face; in other words, it was so overreaching and violative of the First Amendment that “no conceivable governmental interest would justify such an absolute prohibition of speech.” It was a resounding win for free speech and religious liberty.

Now, 25 years later to the day, I look back at that first Supreme Court win with fondness and deep gratitude. At the time, I never imagined what would unfold in the following years. I’ve been privileged to return numerous times to the Supreme Court to take part in oral arguments, and very fortunate to have secured additional victories protecting the constitutional rights of Americans.

The Lord has blessed the ACLJ with tremendous success. No question about that.

What is also true is that none of it – not the first Supreme Court win a quarter century ago or any of our other victories – would have been possible without the support of you – our members. There are some who have been with us from the very start. And many others who have joined with us over the years.

I want to thank you for your continued prayers and support. There will always be new threats – new challenges – to our families and to our freedom. And I want you to know that as we celebrate this special anniversary marking our first Supreme Court victory, we remain dedicated to protecting your religious and constitutional freedoms.

Jay Sekulow

Jay Sekulow: Last Chance for AG Holder on Fast & Furious?

A meeting between Rep. Issa and Attorney General Holder is scheduled to take place late today. Here’s the question: will the meeting and the documents expected to be produced by Holder be enough to hold off a scheduled contempt of Congress vote against Holder set for tomorrow in the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee?

We’ve been talking about this for months. The Attorney General and Justice Department continue to stonewall – failing to produce key information that would explain who knew what and when in the botched gun-running DOJ program known as Operation Fast & Furious, which resulted in the murder of a U.S. Border Patrol agent.

Not only has it been impossible to get to the bottom of exactly what happened, the DOJ had to retract a February 4, 2011 letter submitted to Congress – retracted many months later – after it was revealed the letter contained numerous inaccuracies and false information.

Now, with a late day meeting set between Rep. Issa and Attorney General Holder, very big questions still remain.

As I told Megyn Kelly on FOX News today, this is one last chance for Holder. Will he comply with a duly authorized subpoena or not?

The fact of the matter is that this is fast becoming quite a constitutional showdown. And the truth is this is a crisis created by the Attorney General himself. This has not been good lawyering. In fact, the legal strategy employed by the DOJ of stonewalling and providing incorrect information is preposterous.

Will the Attorney General produce the necessary document at today’s meeting with Rep. Issa, the chairman of House Oversight and Government Reform Committee? We will see.

As Rep. Issa put it, “It’s not about meetings, it’s about getting documents.”

Stay tuned.

Jay Sekulow

Jay Sekulow: President Obama’s Arrogance

It’s a tactic that has become the hallmark of his presidency. President Obama declaring a change in U.S. immigration law. No Congressional action. No court decision. Just another executive decision. This time changing immigration law to permit young people who were brought to this country illegally to stay, rather than face deportation.

We should have seen this one coming. The Wall Street Journal points out that President Obama actually revealed his intentions a year ago. “In a speech last year to La Raza, a Hispanic civil rights organization that has criticized the White House for the lack of progress on immigration reform, President Obama mused that he’d like ‘to bypass Congress and change the laws on my own.’ He added, ‘Believe me, the idea of doing things on my own is very tempting. I promise you.’”

Well, the temptation he talked about then proved to be too much for the president. Last Friday, he gave into political temptation. Another power grab.

President Obama and his imperial presidency. Acting alone in deciding which laws to enforce, which to ignore. A constitutional scholar who isn’t following the constitution. A president who doesn’t worry about the separation of powers, circumventing the traditional checks and balances of our constitutional system.

It’s this kind of arrogance that already has drawn a sharp rebuke from many.

Sen. Lindsey Graham called Obama’s action “at best unwise and possibly illegal.” Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa) said he is planning to file suit against the Obama Administration to challenge the president’s action.

And respected commentator Charles Krauthammer put it more bluntly: “Beyond the pandering, beyond the politics, beyond the process – is simple constitutional decency. This is out-and-out lawlessness. You had a clip of the president himself say months ago ‘I cannot do this on my own because there are laws on the books.’ Well, I have news for president – the laws remain on the books. They haven’t changed.”

For this White House and this president, there is only one branch of government – the executive branch. And, no doubt, the president will continue to rely on what many have called his executive command authority to push through his agenda.

For more information about Jay Sekulow visit at http://jaysekulow.blogspot.com

New Ordinance Allows Nativity Scene on Public Property

We were contacted this past December by a Chelsea, MI Council Member who asked us to assist in drafting an ordinance to regulate private use of public space. He contacted us because Chelsea would not allow a live nativity scene on city-leased property during a December festival. Councilman Anderson wanted an ordinance in place to protect such activities. As such, he contacted ACLJ attorneys who were able to provide him with information regarding the First Amendment and the Equal Access Act. 

Specifically, we discussed Lamb’s Chapel, argued by ACLJ Chief Counsel, Jay Sekulow, a case in which a unanimous Supreme Court held that the First Amendment requires religious groups to be treated equally with other groups that use public facilities. The Court upheld two principles. First, denying religious organizations equal access to, and use of, public facilities for speech activities violates the Free Speech Clause of the First Amendment. Second, it is not a violation of the Establishment Clause (what some people mistakenly call “separation of church and state”) for a school to treat religious organizations equally with other organizations. These principles apply to all public facilities, not just school facilities, which have been opened for use by community organizations. 

Based on such case law, ACLJ attorneys were able to assist the Council Member in drafting an ordinance that would regulate private use of public space. The outcome was favorable, and we just received word that the drafted ordinance passed unanimously. 

We are pleased with this outcome and will continue working to protect the rights of religious organizations to ensure that they are treated equally with other organizations when public space has been opened for use by community organizations.

Jay Sekulow: SCOTUS Supportive of AZ Immigration Law

It was a very good day for the State of Arizona at the U.S. Supreme Court.
During oral arguments before eight Justices (Justice Elena Kagan recused herself from this case), it became clear that a majority of the Justices seem to believe that Arizona has a legitimate role in the enforcement of laws designed to protect its citizens and borders.

In the run-up to today’s arguments, there’s been much written and said about how the Arizona immigration law is unconstitutional – that a provision that requires state law enforcement officials to verify a person’s legal status when they’re stopped on suspicion of committing a separate offense is somehow discriminatory and unconstitutional.

But at the outset, the Chief Justice asked the Solicitor General if Arizona’s S.B. 1070 involves racial or ethnic profiling. The government repeatedly responded: “No, it does not.” The fact that the government conceded that the law does not involve racial or ethnic profiling is very significant because it undercuts an argument that’s been repeatedly used to challenge the immigration measure.

In fact, there was skepticism from several Justices about the Solicitor General’s argument that it was not appropriate for Arizona to act to protect its citizens and border, especially since the federal government has failed to do so. “You can see it’s not selling very well,” Justice Sonia Sotomayor told the government’s attorney. She told him that she was “terribly confused” by his arguments.

In a debate today on FOX News, I told Megyn Kelly that I am optimistic that the Arizona law will be upheld by a majority of the high court.

If You Believe in Your Religion, Believe in the Inspiring Thoughts of Jay Sekulow

Jay Alan Sekulow is a well-renowned attorney with fervour for protecting religious freedom - liberty -democracy.

Jay Sekulow is the Chief Counsel for the ACLJ (American Centre for Law and Justice), one of the most esteemed law and educational institutions that primarily focuses on constitutional law. He is a renowned connoisseur on religious liberty, respected broadcaster and accomplished Supreme Court lawyer. For almost a quarter of a century, he has been on the front lines - passionately working to safeguard the constitution as well as religious freedoms in the Congress, in the public places and in the courts.

At the U.S Supreme Court, Sekulow has argued 12 cases, including many cases that have become part of lawful landscape in the sphere of religious emancipation litigation. In the Mergen’s case, he cleared the way for government school students to form religious organizations and Bible clubs in their school premises. In McConnell vs. FEC, he made sure that the constitutional rights of American Youth remain protected with a decision by High Court promising that minors can also participate in political campaigns.

The National Law Journal Twice Rewarded Sekulow as One of the “Hundred Most Influential Attorneys Worldwide.”

Initially, nobody could have anticipated what started as a mission to safeguard religious rights in America would involve universal outreach. In the world, where Christians face violence, discrimination and above all death for practicing their faith, it soon became evident that something has to be done on an international level. Jay Sekulow deeply believes that religious liberty and freedom is a universal right and a global concern. He established the European Centre of Law and Justice in Strasbourg, France- “the seat of European Court of Human Rights.” He serves as the Chief Counsel of European Centre of Law and Justice (ECLJ). He has incorporated ECLJ offices in Russia, Zimbabwe, France, Kenya and Pakistan.

Furthermore, Sekulow brings education and insight to listeners everyday with his national “call-in radio show- Jay Sekulow Live!, which is broadcasted in more than 850 FM stations, SIRIUS and XM radio and is streamed live on the ACLJ website. He also hosts a weekly TV show, ACLJ This Week, broadcasted on myriad networks nationwide including Daystar, Sky Angle and Trinity Broadcasting Network. He is a regular guest on nationally televised news shows on ABC, CNN, CNBC, PBS, NBC, CBS, MSNBC and FOX News.

That is not all; Sekulow has served as a faculty member for the Legal Education Office at the US Department of Justice. As an important faculty member, he instructed Assistant US Investigators and Attorneys in the First Amendment issues allied with prosecution of Obscenity. With the continuous commitment to education, Sekulow is devoted to training the next gen of religious liberty experts.

Undeniably, Sekulow’s inimitable litigation strategies have revolutionized religious freedom litigation. Jay Sekulow wisdom extends beyond the courtroom.

Jay Sekulow: One of the Most Renowned Evangelicals in America

Dr. Jay Alan Sekulow is a renowned defender of religious liberty and an acclaimed judicial attorney, who brings his nationally recognized knack and expertise to the Regent Law faculty, and renders current law students with the opportunity to contribute to the most eminent legal cases of our time. As a chief counsel for the ACLJ (American Centre for Law and Justice) - a leading national public interest law firm that specializes in the protection of religious and civil freedom and in the constitutional law, Mr. Sekulow has argued innumerable landmark cases before the United States Supreme Court that have since become segment of the legitimate landscape in the arena of religious liberty litigation. He is also a respectful and highly followed commentator and broadcaster.

Having argued 12 cases before the US Supreme Court, Mr. Sekulow has helped to create the legitimate landscape of America’s First Amendment jurisprudence. These milestone cases continue to influence the direction of religious litigation to date.

In the case of Westside School District vs. Mergens, Dr. Sekulow paved the way for public school students to form religious organizations and Bible clubs in the school campuses. In the Lam’s Chapel vs. Centre Moriches School District case, he defended the right of free speech for religious associations, ensuring that they be treated equally, when it comes to the utilization of public facilities.

Regent Law’s accordance with ACLJ facilitates students with a competitive opportunity and prospect to apply for positions assisting ACLJ lawyers. Furthermore, it provides the students with unparalleled opportunities to participate in historic projects such as ACLJ’s unanimous Supreme Court triumph in Pleasant Grove City vs. Summum case, wherein his argument resulted in First Amendment verdict clearing the way for Federal and State governments to accept permanent monuments for their selection- including 10 Commandments monuments- in public parks.

While the ACLJ, under the guidance of Jay Sekulow, initiated the mission to safeguard liberty in the US, and now its impact can be felt throughout the world. Believing that religious freedom is an international right, he incorporated the European Centre for Law and Justice in Strasbourg (France). Jay Sekulow serves as the Chief Counsel of ECLJ, with its offices in France, Pakistan, Kenya, Russia and Zimbabwe.

Many celebrated publications have noted Jay Sekulow’s contribution in the field of constitutional law, from Legal Times naming him one of “The 90 Most Accomplished Washington Attorneys of the Last Thirty Years to the National Law Journal naming him twice as one of the “100 Most Influential Attorneys in the World.” The Townhall Magazine recognized his unequalled record of achievement naming him to the “Townhall of Fame”, mentioning that Sekulow was one of the top and most trusted attorneys for religious liberty in the U.S.

Jay Sekulow’s influence extends far beyond US courtrooms. His daily FM show, Jay Sekulow Live! And the weekly TV program- ACLJ This Week reaches a huge audience who support the cause of religious liberty and life.

He is presently a member of the Board of Trustees for the Supreme Court Historical Society.

He is a frequent guest on the Sean Hannity Show.

He is an illustrious professor at the Regent Law School.

Jay Sekulow - A Man Of Pedigree

Many Americans have heard of Pastor Youcef, who has been in an Iranian prison for more than 860 days. There is a man who is relentlessly following Pastor Youcef’s case, he is none other than Jay Sekulow.

Jay was born on June 10, 1956; this 55 year old legal expert is known for handling difficult legal problems. Jay Sekulow is serving the nation as an attorney and chief counsel for one of the most exalted law firms in the country, the American Center of Law and Justice. Jay has dedicated his entire career in solving cases pertaining to religious freedom in the Supreme Court and his roaring voice and claims left his opponents speechless.

A glimpse about Jay’s Educational Background:

• Bachelor and a Doctor of Jurisprudence Cum Laude (Latin Honors) from Mercer University, Georgia, USA .
• Doctorate of Philosophy(PhD.) from Regent University, Virginia, USA (American Legal History)

An inspiring career:

• Jay Sekulow remains an inspiration for fresh lawyers and other co- solicitors and so far, his career is outshining.

As a lawyer:

• He started as an editorial staff member with Mercer Law Review
• He then started his law career as a tax lawyer, and he worked in the office of the Chief Counsel for the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). He was a key person for the United States Tax Department, and his name is in several yearbooks of United State Tax Court.
• In the year 1990, he was appointed as the director of The American Center of Law and Justice a Law Firm ,and to date he is still serving as Chief Counsel

As a celebrity:

• His voice is heard over more than 850 radio stations nationwide. He is hosting a call-in live show, “Jay Sekulow Live!” and the program focuses on legal and legislative battles in the United States.
• Jay hosts a television program too, known as “ACLJ this week!” broadcasted on daily basis through TBN and Daystar Channels.

Awards:

• 1994: got his name on National Law Journal’s Power list
• 1997: named in the list of American Lawyer’s Public Sector 45

Publications:

• So far, Jay Sekulow has authored six books from 1990- 2005; and all his writing is based on the legal system and the legal history of America.

There are not enough words to describe this American gem, who has dedicated his life fighting for the religious freedom and the liberty of people.

The Story of a Legendary Attorney – Jay Sekulow

The chief counsel of the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) Jay Sekulow is a name known for protecting the cause of religious liberty and freedom around the globe. As a successful attorney, he has submitted amicus briefs for various issues and has represented thousands of Americans.

Jay has also fought 12 cases in the Supreme Court, with some of them bearing landmark results which have revolutionized the area of religious liberties. With an unyielding belief in religious liberty, being an international right, he strives to fight injustices and discriminations against religious liberty around the globe.

A recent case of Jay and ACLJ involves the Arizona’s immigration law S.B. 1070 that targets illegal immigration being challenged by President Obama’s administration along with a federal appeals court. Jay has been garnering attention to this issue.

ACLJ International headquarters in Strasbourg, France is known as the European Centre for Law and Justice (ECLJ). Jay Sekulow international outreach is facilitated by offices around the world, which include those in France, Russia, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Pakistan and Israel. His international endeavors also involved an important part in defending Israel before the International Criminal Court at Hague.


Jay has many accolades being bestowed upon him due to his relentless work in the field of religious freedom. The TIME magazine named him as one of the"25 Most Influential Evangelicals" in America, where as Business Week termed the ACLJ as "the leading advocacy group for religious freedom."


He brings about; awareness and insight with the help of his call-in-radio show “Jay Sekulow Live!” Broadcasted on 850 channels, the program has thousands of Americans hooked on to it every night. Along with being quoted in leading newspapers, he is also a guest on national television where he expresses his views on various subjects affecting America.

Jay Sekulow has come a long way in his quest for religious freedom and has changed numerous lives around the globe.

Jay Sekulow Victory for Religious Freedom

In an unanimous decision, the Supreme Court today issued an important decision representing a tremendous victory for religious freedom.

The high court concluded that courts should not intervene in the workings of churches. The Justices determined that the First Amendment protects the ability of churches and church schools to select their ministerial employees without government intrusion.

Here’s the background: The case involved a religiously commissioned teacher who taught in a Missouri Synod Lutheran school but was fired after she became confrontational with the school administration. The federal EEOC and the teacher herself teamed up to sue the church, claiming the church “retaliated” against her for threatening to sue over a medical disability.

A federal district court threw the case out on the grounds that the so-called “ministerial exception” to employment laws barred court review of the retaliation claim. But a federal appeals court reinstated the lawsuit, reasoning that the teacher’s religious role and duties were outweighed by her instruction of the students in secular subjects.

The Supreme Court today overturned that appeals court decision. The Court concluded that both the Free Exercise Clause and the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment protects the freedom of churches to select religiously commissioned teachers for their religious grade schools.

In its opinion, the high court concluded: “The interest of society in the enforcement of employment discrimination statutes is undoubtedly important,” said Chief Justice John Roberts. “But so too is the interest of religious groups in choosing who will preach their beliefs, teach their faith, and carry out their mission.”

“When a minister who has been fired sues her church alleging that her termination was discriminatory, the First Amendment has struck the balance for us. The church must be free to choose those who will guide its way,” Roberts added.

We filed an amicus brief in this case on behalf of itself and the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA.

This decision by the Court will generate a lot of interest and analysis. The fact that the Court was unanimous in this decision underlines how an essential part of religious liberty is the principle that churches and synagogues get to select their religion teachers.

Government has no business deciding who should or should not carry out religious ministry, and we’re delighted the high court reached that conclusion.

About Jay Sekulow

Jay Sekulow is Chief Counsel of the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), one of the most prestigious law firms in the country. He is an accomplished Supreme Court advocate, renowned expert on religious liberty, and a respected broadcaster. Jay Sekulow is an attorney with a passion for protecting religious liberty - freedom - democracy.

The League of an Inspirational Attorney - Jay Sekulow

Jay A. Sekulow, is regarded as one of the countries best attorneys, and is the Chief Counsel of the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ). Over the years He has shown his expertise in the field of ‘Religious Liberty’.

To enlighten his virtues, we need to go back to the year 1987 when he was first defending The Jews for Jesus, in their pursuit against The Los Angeles International Airport Authority’s policy (against free speech).

Jay Sekulow also took the case of two high-school students who were denied the opportunity to form a Bible and Prayer group in their school, in both the cases; he brought victory and joy to the lives of thousands of people.

It is clear that Mr. Sekulow fights more for justice than anybody else, His unparalleled zest and belief in the nation’s law-system makes it possible for him to fight for the right cause and freedom.

Generally, we always measure a person’s success and influence in the field by looking at the kind of awards, and Jay Sekulow has won several accolades and awards over a long period of his successful career, and his work achievements speak volume of his undeniable talent.

Jay A. Sekulow has been listed in the top 90 Greatest Washington lawyers of the last 30 years by the Legal Times. He was named to the American Lawyer’s Public Sector 45 in 1997, where the respective sector includes all the influential public servants in the country who have made a positive impact in their areas of expertise.

Jay Sekulow also hosts a radio talk show daily (Jay Sekulow Live!), which is aired on 850 radio broadcasting channels across the entire nation. He discusses about the current legislative battles going around in the country. He stands for something, which goes beyond what is commonly known as a ‘social service sector’.

An Evangelist, An Attorney - Jay Sekulow stands for Religious Liberty

Jay Sekulow is the chief counsel of The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) and a successful Supreme Court advocate who has defended many cases with successful outcomes. As a lively host of a call-in radio show and a television program, Jay provides valuable insight and education to people on matters concerning religious equality in America and the World. His hard work and dedication has made him one of the most successful evangelists who have touched millions of lives.

Jay started his quest to defend religious liberty as well as constitutional freedom through the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) and soon, had international presence with its centers in France, Russia, Kenya, Pakistan, Israel and Zimbabwe.

His accomplishments include his efforts for Israel to tide over the Gaza crisis, with creation of a legal team to defend the interest of national security of Israel in front of the International Criminal Court at Hague. As a prolific attorney, Jay Sekulow’s undertakings have been rewarded with eminent recognitions such as the National Law Journal which named him one of the 100 most influential lawyers in America and Town hall magazine has named him as “one of the top lawyers for religious freedom in the United States."

He is involved in defending many cases on behalf of The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), a recent case involves an appeal against President Barrack Obama’s healthcare law, which requires every American to buy health care insurance.

Jay Sekulow was born in Brooklyn, graduated from the Mercer University and has a PhD from Regent University, with humble beginnings as a tax trial attorney in the office of the chief counsel of the Internal Revenue Service.
He married Pamela in 1978, and has two sons Jordan and Logan from his marriage.