The ACLU, Gideons, and Censorship

Fun And Games?


We have received a tip from our friend Robbie over at the Devil's Advocate . He has linked a most interesting story from Sunday's Washington Post. It's about a Maryland school district, the Charles County Board of Education, that has become embroiled in a controversy involving Bibles, the censoring of classic American literature, The Gideons International, and, as an extra special bonus included at no additional charge, The American Civil Liberties Union.

The EdWonk believes that this is just the beginning of what may be an interesting tale of intrigue, posturing, and legal maneuvering. Not surprisingly, press releases at the Charles County Board Of Education are silent regarding this matter, except that tonight's regular meeting is being moved to a bigger venue.

Regarding what is going on, a spokesman for the ACLU has declared, "What they're proposing is clearly unconstitutional. It is a violation of separation of church and state under the First Amendment."

Recently, the ACLU has zealously threatened a variety of small districts with lawsuits, on the assumption that they will settle with the ACLU rather that wage an expensive legal battle over such items as flag pledges, "moments of silence," and Christmas trees. The ACLU has almost always won, by default.

Interestingly, this district comprises some 32 schools and has an enrollment of 25,500 students. Since this District has an in-house legal counsel, they might choose to offer battle with the ACLU. Such a struggle would be very endearing for many to observe.

There are other items, but you should go over and check out Devil's Advocate to learn much more. The Education Wonks are Very Interested in the events surrounding this developing story, and are going to try to learn more via our Unconventional Methods.