Carolyn suggested I bring this over here, and I agree it was an excellent suggestion! What do you think?
'God Bless America' Signs Prompt Complaints in Oklahoma School District
Friday, September 21, 2001
BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — Concerns over the separation of church and state have prompted complaints about signs at some area schools that used the phrase "God Bless America."
The signs went up following last week's terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Broken Arrow schools spokeswoman Judy Gourd said several parents had complained about the display on school property.
"We had patrons that were not only unhappy but threatened to sue because the sign had 'God Bless America' on it," Gourd said.
The school system contacted the Oklahoma State School Boards Association, which said the phrase could be construed as a violation of the separation of church and state under the U.S. Supreme Court's interpretation of the Constitution, officials said.
But the executive director of the association, Dr. Keith Ballard, said Friday that it did not advise schools to avoid displaying the signs.
Ballard said the association's attorneys advised that schools who use the expression make it part of a patriotic display that includes a flag, a picture of the Liberty Bell or some other patriotic quote or symbol.
"This advice was given to ensure that the schools have no liability if the matter ever came to court — which we would hope would never happen," Ballard said.
Principals at some schools rephrased the sentiment, but other parents have told the district they want "God Bless America" restored to the signs.
"The Supreme Court is who makes these rulings, and, unfortunately, they put the schools between a rock and a hard place," Broken Arrow school board President Sharon Whelpley said.
"Broken Arrow schools is composed of Board of Education members, teachers, staff, students, parents and patrons who support the sentiment that God should bless America," the statement said.
"Unfortunately, we are also a school district that must comply with the law," it said. "We regret that this has caused any sort of controversy in our community, as we begin the arduous healing process together." |
