tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606201113344523885.post4877663531124016530..comments2024-03-28T13:08:26.494-04:00Comments on Religion & American Law: Jessica Ahlquist, Atheist, Receives Threats Over Prayer Banner Ruling; School Board May AppealBrantley Gasawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02894338478934982958noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606201113344523885.post-90023550809301311942012-01-31T20:08:34.018-05:002012-01-31T20:08:34.018-05:00Angela's comment brings into light the distinc...Angela's comment brings into light the distinction between favoritism for a specific denomination over another and appreciation for local history. As we have discovered in our recent readings, religion in general has played a significant role in shaping our nation, and for that reason can be utilized to honor our past.To me, the intention behind the hanging of the banner is what can determine the constitutionality. If the banner was hung in order to explicitly promote a specific denomination over another, then it is obviously unconstitutional. If the banner was hung in order to honor local history, perhaps it should stay. Will we next refuse to speak of all influences religion has had on our world for fear of choosing favorites?Nicole S.https://www.blogger.com/profile/03767538237706101324noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-606201113344523885.post-27193542308693826382012-01-31T08:13:25.947-05:002012-01-31T08:13:25.947-05:00The argument was not just that the banner was hist...The argument was not just that the banner was historic having been written by a student in the past, but that it promoted secular values that are valued in the community. In my opinion though, that does not change the fact that it is still a very Christian prayer. The first line tells you who it is addressed to and the last line confirms that. If those lines had been replaced with something secular then the actual message of the banner would not have been such an issue, but the message seems to have been lost based on the fact that police have to escort her to school.Angela S.https://www.blogger.com/profile/06728324639447624021noreply@blogger.com