Ten Commandments Display Sparks Debate Over Separation of Church and State
A new exhibit at the state Capitol has sparked fresh debate over the separation of church and state.
The “Foundations of American Law and Government” exhibit consists of nine historical documents, beginning with a copy of the Ten Commandments.
It’s located on the basement level of the Capitol and includes the Magna Carta, the Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights. A recently passed state law enabled the display to be placed at the Capitol.
Earlier this week, many who viewed the exhibit seemed fine with including the religious text.
Acworth resident Taylor Bloomenthal said it’s all about context.
“It’s a tradition. It’s not about the religious aspects of it. It’s just a piece of how we’ve gotten here.”
A few, however, said they could see how the religious text could make some uncomfortable.
Cartersville resident Shirley Nixon said she personally didn’t have anything against it, but could see how it could bother some.
“It really all depends on how you look at it and how you take in the writing.”
Barry Lynn of the advocacy group Americans United for Separation of Church and State argues the display’s religious intent is clear. Moreover, he says, it’s bad history.
“We don’t make it a crime to covet your neighbor’s SUV although there’s a commandment against it. We don’t require people to worship God although one of the commandments is about that. So there’s no connection historically between the Ten Commandments and the Bill of Rights other than the number ten.”
Lynn says the exhibit effectively acts as an endorsement of the Judeo-Christian faith. His organization is considering a lawsuit.
Similar displays have been upheld in courts if ruled they serve a secular purpose and are based in actual history.
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