Wednesday, April 22, 2009

AU Files Suit To Block Public School Graduation Ceremonies In WI

Americans United Files Suit To Block Public School Graduation Ceremonies In Wisconsin ChurchWatchdog Group Files Case On Behalf Of Local Families Who Object To Sectarian Venue For Public EventApril 22, 2009


Americans United for Separation of Church and State today filed a lawsuit in federal court to block a Wisconsin public school district from holding graduation ceremonies in the sanctuary of an evangelical church.The suit, filed on behalf of a graduating senior and several families in the district, challenges the Elmbrook School District’s decision to hold graduation ceremonies for Brookfield Central High School and Brookfield East High School at Elmbrook Church.“Public schools should schedule graduation ceremonies at public venues where families of all faiths or none will feel welcome,” said the Rev. Barry W. Lynn, executive director of Americans United.

“Some parents and children do not feel comfortable attending commencement in this religious setting. Graduation is too important to leave some families out.”Elmbrook Church displays a large cross in its sanctuary, and the facility includes other religious iconography as well. Church officials have refused to cover the cross. On at least one occasion, members of the church passed out religious literature to graduation attendees in the lobby.

Read the full press release at au.org
http://www.au.org/site/News2?abbr=pr&page=NewsArticle&id=10397

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