Aug 12, 2012
Rhode Island is the birthplace of American religious freedom and
the wall of separation between church and state. Sometime between
its founding and 2010, however, Rhode Island seems to have
forgotten this proud part of its history. That was when a new
student noticed a banner at Cranston High School West that read:
Our Heavenly Father. Grant us each day the desire to do our best.
To grow mentally and morally as well as physically. To be kind and
helpful to our classmates and teachers. To be honest with ourselves
as well as with others. Help us to be good sports and smile when we
lose as well as when we win. Teach us the value of true friendship.
Help us always to conduct ourselves so as to bring credit to
Cranston High School West. Amen. This student was Jessica Ahlquist,
and her challenge to the legality of the banner under the
Establishment Clause of the First Amendment made history for for
her poise and determination--and for the viciousness with which it
was met. Jessica is in town for the American Atheists Regional
Convention this weekend, and she will join us in the studio to talk
about her court case and about how life has been since it was
won.