If We Lose the Voice of Religion, We Lose a Freedom

 "We cannot lose the influence of religion and religious bodies in our public life without seriously jeopardizing our freedom and prosperity."  -- Elder Dallin H. Oaks of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
  There are those who suggest (demand, might be more accurate) that religion be removed from the public stage. I am of a different mind. I agree with Elder Oaks. If we lose the voice of religion, we lose a vital voice. The contributions of religion to public thought are many and wonderful. That we should seek to throw out any voice is wrong, but it becomes interesting when voice being banned is the voice of religion.  
   The right of religions to speak in the public arena is one of our basic rights, or should be. If we ban the voice of religion, we lose valuable input in deciding our societal issues.