On November 12, 2024, U.S. District Judge John deGravelles ruled against Louisiana's controversial law mandATING the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. This decision marks a significant moment for the state, as it reinforces the separation of church and state, inherent principles guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
The law, signed by Republican Governor Jeff Landry as part of his "Dream Big" Education Plan earlier this year, required all public schools to display the Ten Commandments starting January 1, 2025. The text was mandated to be posted prominently, ensuring students could see it every day. Governor Landry, during the signing ceremony, expressed his belief in the law's necessity, stating, "If you want to respect the rule of law, you gotta start from the original law... which was Moses."
Opposition mounted against the law from various groups, including parents and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). They filed suit based on the grounds of the Establishment Clause, arguing it exerted undue pressure on students to observe religious tenants. Heather Weaver, senior staff attorney for the ACLU, remarked, "This ruling should serve as a reality check for Louisiana lawmakers who want to use public schools to convert children to their preferred brand of Christianity. Public schools are not Sunday schools, and today's decision ensures all students, regardless of their faith, feel welcomed."
Judge deGravelles characterized the law as "coercive to students," highlighting the impracticality of opting out from viewing the Commandments if they are displayed universally. He emphasized this aspect of coercion necessitated the law's rejection based on legal precedent set by earlier Supreme Court rulings, particularly referencing the 1980 case concerning similar legislation in Kentucky.
While the law's backers may have anticipated legal challenges, the breadth of deGravelles' ruling has added urgency to the appeal process. Louisiana's Attorney General Liz Murrill, who has stated intentions to appeal the ruling, is expected to bring the case before the Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Judge deGravelles's ruling applies universally across the state's schools, even to institutions where no direct complaint was filed, and does not allow for any provision of legal changes to only affected districts. Critics of this universal ruling assert it could set a concerning precedent about the scope of judicial authority.
Critics of the law noted its overtly religious purpose, arguing it stood contrary to the public school system's ethos. The judge agreed, pointing out the lack of similar requirements for other foundational texts like the Constitution or the Bill of Rights.
Despite the state's plans to push back against the ruling, the initial decision has drawn widespread attention not only within Louisiana but also on national platforms, igniting discussions on the role of religion within public education.
DeGravelles' ruling encapsulates the wider tension surrounding religion and governance, especially pertinent within Louisiana, known for its conservative leaning. The state's attorney general has stated they will seek to narrow the scope of the ruling during appeals, potentially aiming for adjustments to limit its widespread applicability.
Legal experts are debating the potential ramifications of the case. Josh Blackman, constitutional law professor, highlighted the broader impact of universal injunctions specified by the court, questioning the appropriateness of remedies extended beyond the plaintiffs directly involved.
With another legal battle on the horizon, local and national observers are bracing for heightened scrutiny on legislative measures intertwined with religious practices within schools. The outcomes from this case may set necessary benchmarks for similar actions across the country, especially within states where religious legislation is increasingly gaining ground.
Overall, the blockage of Louisiana's Ten Commandments law reflects the judiciary's continued role as a check on legislative actions, especially those perceived as encroaching upon constitutional rights. The court's emphasis on protecting student rights within educational environments continues to resonate as lawmakers navigate the delicate balance between legislative initiatives and foundational legal principles.
The forthcoming appeal later this year will undoubtedly serve as a watershed moment within the intersection of religion and public education across the nation. Given the deep-rooted constitutional principles involved, the coming months will be pivotal for all stakeholders.
