America is rediscovering something that was pushed out of our public schools decades ago: the Ten Commandments as a foundational moral and legal influence. Across the country, legal battles are underway that could determine whether states are allowed to require the posting of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. States like Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas have already passed laws attempting to require these displays, challenging policies that have effectively blocked them nationwide since 1980.
This issue is about more than religion. The Ten Commandments represent a moral framework that shaped Western civilization and influenced American law and culture. Scholars and legal commentators, including Phyllis Schlafly, have long described the Commandments as one of the most influential law codes in history. They are not simply a religious document, but a historic source of moral principles like respect for life, property, and truth. They are part of the foundation of our Western legal tradition and helped shape the American understanding of justice and order.
Historically, public schools were not hostile to religious ideas. In fact, many Americans were taught moral and civic values rooted in biblical tradition. Supporters of bringing the Ten Commandments back into classrooms argue that students should at least be familiar with a document that has played a major role in shaping our civilization and culture. Teaching or displaying the Ten Commandments is about understanding history and heritage, not forcing anyone to adopt a particular faith.
Of course, this debate exists because of past court decisions. In 1980, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a Kentucky law requiring Ten Commandments postings in classrooms was unconstitutional because it lacked a secular purpose. But today, the legal landscape may be changing. Acknowledging the historical influence of biblical principles is consistent with America’s founding traditions.
Right now, courts are deciding whether states can once again recognize that heritage in public education. Restoring awareness of the Ten Commandments is part of restoring the moral and historical knowledge that helped build our country. This is about ensuring future generations understand the ideas that shaped Western civilization and the United States.
When America turns our back on our Christian heritage, we shouldn’t be surprised when values like honesty, respect, justice, and freedom are abandoned. At PhyllisSchlafly.com, we still believe in “rights endowed by our Creator.” If you agree, join with us at PhyllisSchlafly.com and sign up for our timely alerts! Thanks for listening to the Phyllis Schlafly Report.
