This article examines a fundamental difference between the educational culture of the United States and Germany. The Romeike family of Germany, who are Evangelical Christians, took their children out of mainstream school and attempted to homeschool their children. After hefty fines and harassment from German authorities, the Romeike family fled to the United States where they were granted asylum for religious persecution.
This fundamental difference in governmental intervention in education and family life also relates to religious freedom and cultural acceptance. Although the Romeike family has the right to worship whatever religion they see fit, they are barred from homeschooling their children and educating them with a curriculum centered around their beliefs. I find this case relevant when trying to understand why certain policies and laws are in place in Germany. In this case, I believe that these educational laws are upheld by a combination of child welfare interests, and conversely, fear of religious indoctrination of children.
