Eyeing a Friendly Supreme Court, Republicans Push for the Ten Commandments in Schools
Testing constitutional limits, Republicans in at least 15 states have introduced legislation this year that would require the Ten Commandments be displayed in public school classrooms. GOP lawmakers are attempting to follow Louisiana, which last year became the first state in the country to have such a requirement in the modern era.
A New Day for Religious Freedom
The push comes as the U.S. Supreme Court has a 6-3 conservative majority, with three of its members appointed by President Donald Trump in his first term. "It is now a new day for religious freedom in America," said Republican state Sen. Bob Phalen, who sponsored the Montana bill. "The Supreme Court’s approach on religious displays has evolved over time."
The Debate
Supportive state legislators argue that the Commandments are a historical example of law and not purely religious in nature. However, some of the Commandments, such as "Thou shalt not kill" and "Thou shalt not steal," are widely recognized as moral principles. Others, such as "Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy," are more explicitly religious.
The Legal Battle
The federal lawsuit argues that the law violates the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which states, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion." The case is likely heading to the U.S. Supreme Court. In December, 18 Republican state attorneys general filed a brief supporting Louisiana’s law to the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, which is currently hearing the case.
Other States Take Action
In addition to Louisiana, several other states have introduced or passed legislation related to religion in public schools. In Kentucky, a bill would require schools to have a moment of silence at the beginning of each day, lasting at least one minute. In Texas, a bill would allow school districts to require every campus to provide students and employees with an opportunity to participate in a period of prayer and reading of the Bible or other religious text each day.
Conclusion
As the legal battle over the Ten Commandments in public schools continues, it remains to be seen whether the U.S. Supreme Court will uphold or strike down the laws. One thing is certain, however: the debate over the role of religion in public education is likely to be a contentious one for years to come.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the Ten Commandments in public schools?
The purpose of the Ten Commandments in public schools is to provide a moral foundation for students and to promote a sense of community and shared values. - Is the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools constitutional?
The constitutionality of displaying the Ten Commandments in public schools is currently being litigated in the courts. - Have other states introduced similar legislation?
Yes, several other states have introduced or passed legislation related to religion in public schools. - What is the current makeup of the U.S. Supreme Court?
The U.S. Supreme Court has a 6-3 conservative majority, with three of its members appointed by President Donald Trump in his first term.
