A federal judge has struck down a Texas law requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. U.S. District Judge Fred Biery issued a preliminary injunction, asserting that the law infringes on the First Amendment by promoting religious coercion. This ruling comes just days before the law was scheduled to take effect on September 1.
The measure, known as Senate Bill 10, was signed into law by Republican Governor Greg Abbott earlier this year. It mandated that every public school classroom prominently display a large poster or framed copy of the Ten Commandments, measuring at least 16 by 20 inches. Proponents of the law claimed the Commandments enshrine moral principles that are foundational to American law and society. They serve as a vital reminder of values like honesty, respect, and responsibility.
In his 55-page decision, Judge Biery wrote, “Even though the Ten Commandments would not be affirmatively taught, the captive audience of students likely would have questions, which teachers would feel compelled to answer.” He expressed concern that the displays could press students into “religious observance” and suppress their own beliefs during school hours. Biery pointed out that there is a lack of evidence supporting a tradition of displaying the Ten Commandments in public educational settings. He emphasized, “There are ways in which students could be taught any relevant history of the Ten Commandments without the state selecting an official version of scripture.”
Rabbi Mara Nathan, one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, welcomed the ruling, stating, “Children’s religious beliefs should be instilled by parents and faith communities, not politicians and public schools.” Meanwhile, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced plans to appeal the decision, defending the significance of the Ten Commandments in American culture. He affirmed, “The Ten Commandments are a cornerstone of our moral and legal heritage… and I will absolutely be appealing this flawed decision.”
This ruling may have far-reaching implications for how religious symbols and teachings are regarded within public education, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the separation of church and state.
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