Creationism show trial (good piece on the forces behind the KS ID/

Kansas is gearing up for another major showdown this spring over science standards. The state has been a flashpoint for creationist activity since 1999 when the State Board of Education voted 6-4 to remove virtually all references to evolution from the state science standards. The action brought a wave of concern for the quality of education in the state and, in 2000, moderates regained control of the school board and reversed the plan. However, evolution opponents gained ground in the 2002 elections and retook control of the school board in 2004.

This time, the creationist faction of the board is reportedly planning a trial-like hearing, complete with a court reporter and cross-examination of witnesses. Board member Kathy Martin was quoted in one local paper as saying: "Nothing's on trial, except maybe evolution." Moderate members of the board lost their bid to cancel the hearings, which local press reports are being compared to the 1925 Scopes “Monkey” Trial. The hearings are tentatively scheduled for May 5-7 and May 12-14, 2005.

A Network of Right-Wing Support

A number of right-wing clergy in Kansas, energized by their success in getting an anti-gay marriage amendment on the spring 2005 ballot, have indicated that attacking science education was their next agenda item. "It's a new day for evangelicals," said Rev. Jerry Johnston, senior pastor at Overland Park's First Family Church. Pat Bullock of the Heart of Kansas Southern Baptist Association described the connection between the issues: "Same-sex marriage, abortion, are symptoms of the cause of rejecting a Supreme Being, taught through evolution."

Evolution opponents in the legislature were quick to get into the act, sponsoring a resolution arguing that science classes should give students "the full range of scientific views" on the topic. With unintended irony, the resolution declares, "Objectivity is needed in science education" and tells the board that the state's science classes should teach the “full range of scientific views” on controversial subjects, mentioning biological evolution as an example. It is being backed by the state chapter of Concerned Women for America.