Jehovah's Witnesses are usually misunderstood, even by Jehovah's Witnesses. Although they may be irritating when they knock on your door, many people view them as a fairly benign and peaceful group of Bible enthusiasts. The truth is that they are a very secretive religion and have much that they wish to hide.
They don't tolerate dissent. If a member speaks out against their organisation or disagrees with their teachings, they can be expelled and shunned. Many of their members live in fear because they don't want to lose contact with their family and friends. Others, like myself, are ostracised because of simple differences of opinion or because of a decision to leave the cult.
Jehovah's Witnesses have fought vigorously to protect their religious rights. It's ironic that they show such contempt for the liberties of their members. Once you are sucked in, there is no graceful way to exit. If freedom of religion is to mean anything, it must include the right to leave a religion without suffering retaliation and persecution.
The legal and moral issues are complex and the consequences are profound. These policies lead to depression, suicide and broken families. They threaten cherished principles of civilised society. I hope this blog will heighten awareness of this situation and provide some comfort and hope for those who suffer. I won't be satisfied until these practices are abolished or the organisation that practices them is held accountable.
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