Caddo Commission Stands Against Law Mandating the Display of 10 Commandments in Public Schools
SHREVEPORT, La.
In a move that sparks dialogue over the separation of church and state in Louisiana, the Caddo Parish Commission voted on Wednesday, expressing their opposition to a law requiring the public display of the 10 Commandments in schools.
America’s Foundation
Contrary to the belief of some, Commissioner Gregory Young pointed out that America was not founded on religious grounds. “The First Amendment says Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,” Young emphasized.
However, some supporters of the law argue that the commandments are a crucial moral guide for students and play a significant role in the nation’s history. Commissioner Chris Kracman rebutted, “No one is trying to establish a religion. Nothing about this law is creating a new religion. This is a document of laws, just like the Mayflower Compact. It has historical value to the establishment of this country.”
Making a Case Against, Not For, Religious Commandments
Commissioner Steffon Jones presented a unique perspective, pointing out that the number of commandments exceeds 10, and emphasizing the potential impacts of implementing some of the lesser-known commandments. Implementing all commandments, he noted, could have catastrophic consequences, particularly for Louisiana’s thriving seafood industry.
“You can go to Leviticus chapter 20 and go through the commandments handed down to the Hebrew people. Every crawfish stand would have to close down. There would be no crab legs. You could not eat catfish because it does not have both fins and scales,” Jones pointed out.
Preserving Unity in Diversity
Commissioner Jones further explained that the diversity of faiths among his constituents’ children necessitates a more inclusive approach in the classroom. “We don’t need to be entertaining legislation that divides us and puts those who don’t believe what I may believe in a position where they feel isolated. Because that’s what this does to the Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhists who don’t practice and believe what I do and their history is not posted on the wall but their Americans too,” Jones stated.
The Verdict
A heated debate ensued, but in the end, the vote favored the opposition to the law. The resolution was passed with a seven to four vote in favor. The resolution will now be forwarded to Gov. Landry and any entities intending to challenge the law in court.
Though the journey to the final decision was far from smooth, the call for maintaining decorum during discussions was skillfully handled by President Stormy-Gage Watts, ensuring an uninterrupted flow of arguments.
The climax of the debate was during Commissioner Kracman’s discussion interrupted by another commissioner. Kracman’s statement: “None of those religions were in the foundation of the founding of this country,” only further highlighted the varied perspectives on religion and its role in the public sphere.
This marked a milestone in the continuing dialogue on the interaction of state and religion, serving as a testament to the diversity of beliefs in Louisiana.
The resolution promises to be a ground-breaking guide for handling similar issues throughout the state in the future.
