For Immediate Release:
March 31, 2004
Senator Charles Laster
Committee Protects Posting of National Motto
The Senate Appropriations committee has given
its approval to language ensuring the right of schools to
display the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM” (Out of
Many One)” and “IN GOD WE TRUST.”
Senator Charlie
Laster is author of House Bill 2477, known as the “Reading
Sufficiency Act.” The Shawnee Democrat amended the
measure to include language declaring the right to display
the mottos.
“I believe that our schools are within their rights
to display those words, but I also know there are many teachers
and administrators who are concerned that they could wind
up in court if they do. This language simply reaffirms their
right to post the words in the classroom, an auditorium
or in their cafeteria if they so desire,” said Senator
Laster, D-Shawnee.
According to the United States Department of the Treasury,
the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” was placed on United
States coins during the Civil War era.
The phrase “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” which appears
on the dollar bill, was adopted in 1776 as the motto of
the Great Seal, alluding to the unification of the 13 original
colonies.
“Reach in your pocket and pull out a penny, or a dime,
or a dollar bill. They all have the words ‘In God
We Trust’ right there. Maybe there are a few people
who would take offense at that—but the fact is, it’s
our national motto and there’s nothing wrong with
displaying that in the classroom,” explained Laster.
The measure now moves to the full Senate for further consideration.
Senator Laster said he was hopeful the bill would be approved.
“This is very basic, common sense legislation. Our
national motto is part of our history and identity. I don’t
want any person or court to try and prevent Oklahoma school
children from learning about a fundamental part of our precious
heritage as a nation. This legislation lets our schools
know they have our support if they want to display these
historic words,” said Laster.
For
more information contact:
Senate
Communications Office - (405) 521-5774
