In a recent segment on ABC’s “The View,” the hosts discussed Louisiana’s decision to display the Ten Commandments in public schools, generating quite the debate. For those who feel strongly about the separation of church and state, this move has struck a nerve.
Whoopi Goldberg was quick to voice her skepticism, wondering if this decision was just for show or if Louisiana genuinely believes this will withstand legal scrutiny. “Is this theater? Or does he think this is going to stand up in court?” she asked.
Sunny Hostin chimed in, confidently saying that this decision will face judicial review based on previous Supreme Court rulings. “I think he really does think it’s going to stand up in court. Because if you’re going to follow the rule of law, then you really need to follow the US Supreme Court,” she explained, pointing to a 1980 ruling that found similar displays unconstitutional.
Hostin expressed concern that Louisiana seems to be relying on a “reactive, very partisan Supreme Court” to overturn precedent. “We should be very afraid of that, because we’re now an upside-down world,” she said, suggesting a future of judicial instability.
Continuing the conversation, Goldberg questioned whether displaying the Ten Commandments means other religious texts should also be included. “If you’re putting the Ten Commandments, does that mean we’re putting the Quran in? Does that mean we’re going to put in the writings of Buddha?” Goldberg asked, highlighting potential inconsistencies in promoting religious texts in public domains.
Sarah Haines added her thoughts, saying that displaying Biblical principles in schools could be seen as an endorsement of Christianity, potentially violating the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. “The school posting it becomes a stance or an endorsement of sorts. And I think that is inching into a very problematic place,” she stated.
However, it was noted that the panel did not deeply discuss the historical and cultural significance of the Ten Commandments in American society. From the nation’s founding to the principles written into the Constitution, Christian values have indeed played a considerable role. The panel’s criticism reflects a broader trend towards pushing for a more secular public space.
The Ten Commandments serve not just as religious benchmarks but also as foundational elements of moral and legal frameworks that have guided Western civilization. Displaying them in schools can serve as a reminder of these ethical foundations, rather than an endorsement of a specific religion.
In today’s climate, where moral relativism and secular values are becoming more dominant, Louisiana’s decision to display the Ten Commandments can be seen as a stand for the enduring values that shaped America. While “The View” cast’s criticism was anticipated, it may miss the broader point of remembering the moral and ethical foundations that have historically benefited society.
As the debate continues, it’s crucial to remember that the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, not freedom from religion. The Ten Commandments in public schools reflect the values that have helped shape the nation’s character, and their inclusion should be seen as a celebration of these historical foundations rather than a point of contention.
