Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Ten Commandments Display Law Hits a Snag
In a surprising turn of events, a new law in Louisiana requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in all public classrooms has been deemed “unconstitutional on its face” by a federal judge. On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles in Baton Rouge made the ruling, which means state education officials must not enforce this law and should inform local school boards across the state.
What’s All the Fuss About?
The law, which was championed by local Republican leaders, aimed to have the Ten Commandments posted in classrooms as a nod to their historical significance to U.S. law. However, Judge deGravelles found that the law had an “overtly religious” purpose and rejected the claims that it held any educational value comparable to documents like the Constitution or the Bill of Rights, which do not have mandated postings.
In light of this ruling, Louisiana’s Attorney General Elizabeth Murrill expressed her disagreement, stating her office would quickly seek to appeal the decision in the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. “DeGravelles’ ruling can only apply to five local school boards,” Murrill pointed out, adding that it leaves the remaining 67 school systems in a gray area regarding enforcement of the law.
Confusion Brewing Among School Boards
Murrill stated, “The order itself creates confusion with regard to whether other school boards are subject to it.” Legally, she noted they’re not, but the uncertainty created by the ruling might discourage local boards from enforcing their own decisions. Acknowledging the potential chilling effect this could have, she insisted that the law should be upheld.
Judge’s Take on Religious Coercion
In granting a preliminary injunction, Judge deGravelles noted that the plaintiffs of the case—parents of Louisiana public school children—had compelling arguments. They claimed that mandating the display of the Ten Commandments would alienate non-Christian students. “By law, parents must send their minor children to school and ensure attendance during regular school hours at least 177 days per year,” he stated, highlighting the coercive nature of the law.
The Background of the Legislation
This recent push for the Ten Commandments in schools was part of a broader conservative campaign, with similar measures introduced in other states like Texas and Oklahoma. In Louisiana, the legislation went through the GOP-dominated Legislature and has garnered support from influential figures, including President-elect Donald Trump.
Notably, this isn’t the first time a law like this has been challenged in the courts. The U.S. Supreme Court previously ruled a similar Kentucky law, meant to display the Ten Commandments, unconstitutional back in 1980. The court found that its primary purpose was religious, not educational.
Proponents vs. Opponents
Bills like these often find a fervent following among conservative groups who argue the Ten Commandments play an important role in the moral fabric of society. On the other hand, critics maintain that public schools should remain neutral in matters of religion, to foster an inclusive environment for all students. They worry about the implications that could arise from showcasing only one particular belief system in the classroom.
What’s Next?
As the legal battle unfolds, the future of the Ten Commandments displays in Louisiana’s public schools remains uncertain. The required law would necessitate tens of thousands of posters to comply with the mandate, claiming that schools do not need to spend public funds, as these can be covered through donations.
While both supporters and opponents await the 5th Circuit’s decision, many are left pondering the balance of faith and education in one of the most religious states in America. As the discussion continues, it raises critical questions about religious expression and constitutional rights in public institutions, topics that are likely to resonate far beyond Louisiana.
