Louisiana took a bold step in our Constitutional Republic by mandating the posting of the Ten Commandments in every classroom. This move raises questions about constitutional rights, educational impact, and societal values. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of Louisiana’s new law.
Federalism Allows This Mandate
In our American system of federalism, states may enact laws that are not contrary to U.S. law. Their state becomes a type of laboratory. Their experiment may prove fruitful for other jurisdictions, but they may also fail and be discarded.
What About the So-Called “Separation of Church and State?”
The words and concept of “separation of church and state” do NOT appear in our founding American documents. Some say the First Amendment requires separation of church and state. Read the part of this amendment in question:
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof….”
Who shall make no law? Congress. Neither Congress nor a state can establish a State Church of any kind, nor can these entities prohibit you from exercising your faith. They cannot require you to exercise faith.
[Before continuing, please note: if you choose to comment, do NOT name political parties, candidates, or today’s prominent people. All of us know who they are, what they stand for, and the emotions surrounding them. Avoid acronyms like L and R. Speak to the principles of liberty, not the politically inflamed emotions so prevalent. No additional promotions, pictures, or links. I will delete posts from those who cannot practice intelligent conversation with civility.]
Supporters’ Perspective
Posting the ancient wisdom of the Ten Commandments is not establishing a church. It does not require you even to read the Ten Commandments. Supporters of the legislation say that the Ten Commandments contain foundational moral principles that may guide students’ behavior and decision-making. This ancient wisdom might contribute to a student’s ethics and character education.
I was taught the Ten Commandments in school at the age of five. My friend, Linda, went to public school, and I heard her class recite the Lord’s Prayer every day before school ended. Our classroom experiences, whether parochial or public, included far less cheating, misbehavior, and disrespect. Actual academic learning took place all day long because the expectation of moral behavior was the standard. It wasn’t perfect. It wasn’t “religious.” A sense of right and wrong aided in the formation of respect for teachers, the rules, and academic learning.
Opposition To Louisiana’s Ten Commandments Mandate
Opponents raise significant concerns that absolutely should be discussed in our Constitutional Republic.
The American Civil Liberties Union, along with other civil rights groups, intends to challenge the Louisiana mandate in court. (1) They argue that such a law ‘violates the separation of church and state.’ The issue of maintaining neutrality in a government building is also a significant concern. It’s crucial to consider: Is there currently neutrality in classrooms? If so, how is that working for public schools?
Furthermore, in the case of Stone v. Graham (1980), the Supreme Court rendered a decision saying the government prohibits the posting of the Ten Commandments in classrooms. This ruling merits further debate from both sides.
Another concern of civil rights groups is that some students may feel unwelcome when the Ten Commandments are posted.
A Final Word
Lastly, all eyes will be on Louisiana to see how the school environment is affected. Will learning be hindered or enhanced? Will students thrive under the mandate? How will Louisiana communities be affected? Will Louisiana become a model for other states? Or will the mandate eventually be rescinded because it failed students?
Americans must keep the dialogue going as we seek to do what is in the best interest of students, communities, and the health of public school education. We are the stakeholders in shaping the future of education in this country and the guardians of our Constitutional Republic.
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship.🇺🇸
1.https://www.yahoo.com/news/aclu-file-lawsuit-against-louisiana-160544573.html
