This is not an issue of denying anyones rights to their own beliefs and behaviors, but of silencing most Americans to avoid offending someones feelings. They also gain leverage to intimidate government officials with the threat of new lawsuits. The Edmond seal case is likely to spark a new wave of lawsuits by persons intolerant of acknowledging any heritage relating to faith. Ive heard conflicting histories on whether theyre intended to be Christian crosses, Indian symbols, or Indian religious symbols. All but five of the 50 state constitutions include explicit references and appeals to God.
Religious references are common in official state mottoes.
Scriptures are also commonplace on public monuments and in public buildings, often chiseled into stone. There are plenty of other examples. Symbols are valuable. Simple acknowledgments have always been used to recognize our religious traditions and heritage, common to most if not all of us, and are not intended to promote a particular faith. The Religious Liberties Amendment I have introduced in the House of Representatives, with over 100 co-sponsoring Congressmen, has clear language to resolve this, to permit such acknowledgments beyond a doubt.