Louisiana has ignited a heated debate over the separation of church and state with a new law signed by Governor Jeff Landry, requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom. The legislation, a first of its kind in the nation, has drawn both support and criticism, sparking discussions about religious freedom and constitutional rights.
The bill, known as HB 71, mandates that the biblical text of the Ten Commandments be prominently displayed in all public school classrooms, ranging from kindergarten to state-funded universities, starting in 2025. Governor Landry emphasized the historical significance of these commandments, stating, “If you want to respect the rule of law, you gotta start from the original law given — which was Moses.”
According to the bill’s text, the Ten Commandments must be displayed as a poster or framed document in a large, easily readable font, ensuring visibility for students and educators alike. However, this move has not been without controversy.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) swiftly responded to the legislation, expressing intent to challenge it in court. The organization argued that the law violates the separation of church and state, a fundamental principle enshrined in the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which prohibits the establishment of a national religion or the preference of one religion over another.
“The law is blatantly unconstitutional,” stated the ACLU in a firm statement, reflecting the concerns of many who believe that public institutions should remain neutral in matters of religion.
While Louisiana’s HB 71 marks the first instance of such legislation being signed into law, similar bills have been proposed in other southern states within the US “Bible Belt,” highlighting the ongoing tension between religious expression and constitutional protections.
Sources By Agencies
