The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) has criticized Auburn University for hosting a religious baptism event involving over 200 students, with the school’s football coach assisting in one of the baptisms. FFRF claims that this violates the Constitution’s Establishment Clause and creates a coercive environment for non-Christian students. However, the Alliance Defending Freedom, a prominent Supreme Court litigation firm, argues that FFRF’s interpretation of the First Amendment is flawed and that religious coaches and students have the right to engage in religious activities on campus in their private capacity. The baptisms occurred at a “Unite Auburn” worship event and were not planned by the university. Auburn University is currently evaluating FFRF’s letter.
