A student who wants to start a Christian club in her high school says her rights are being violated.
Liz Loverde says Jesus and Christianity saved her from depression and self-harm. In September, she met with her principal to pitch a club called "Dare to Believe" at Wantagh High School. She says the club would study the bible and do charity work in the community.
Loverde says the school principal refused to read her proposal at first. She says she was then told that starting a Christian club was illegal.
The Liberty Institute, a nonprofit that safeguards religious freedoms, is lobbying on behalf of Liz's club.
"The 11th circuit has said you can't banish religion to whispers in the hallway and broom closets. That's wrong, and that's illegal," said Jeremiah Dys, an attorney at the Liberty Institute.
The superintendent of Wantagh schools issued a statement Monday, saying, "The district is currently reviewing this request with the Board of Education and legal counsel."
Loverde's attorney is giving the administration until Dec. 1 to reconsider the club. Otherwise, he says they are prepared to take the matter to federal district court.