Governor Landry signs law requiring Ten Commandments in all Louisiana classrooms 

Louisiana has made history by becoming the first state to require the Ten Commandments to be displayed in every public school classroom. Governor Jeff Landry signed the legislation, which mandates that poster-sized displays be in place by 2025. The law is facing immediate legal challenges over its constitutionality.

Louisiana’s Governor Jeff Landry signed a controversial bill into law, mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom across America. This new law requires poster-sized displays with large, easily readable font to be placed in classrooms from kindergarten through state-funded universities. Governor Landry emphasized the importance of the Ten Commandments, stating they are foundational to the rule of law and have historical significance in American education.

The law also includes a four-paragraph “context statement,” highlighting the historical role of the Ten Commandments in American public education over the past three centuries. Additionally, the legislation authorizes but does not require the display of other historical documents such as the Mayflower Compact, the Declaration of Independence, and the Northwest Ordinance in K-12 public schools.

The implementation of this mandate will rely on donations, as state funds are not allocated for this purpose.

Analysis

Political: The new law underscores the conservative shift in Louisiana’s political landscape under Governor Landry, who succeeded Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards in January. With Republicans holding a supermajority in the state legislature and every statewide elected position, the conservative agenda has gained significant momentum. This move reflects a broader national trend among GOP-led states to integrate religious elements into public institutions, challenging the separation of church and state.

Social: Socially, this mandate has sparked a heated debate about religious freedom and the role of religion in public education. Proponents argue that the Ten Commandments are not solely religious but have historical and moral significance that can benefit students. Opponents, however, contend that this law alienates students of different faiths or those who do not adhere to any religion, potentially making them feel excluded and unsafe in their learning environment. The ACLU and other civil rights organizations are poised to challenge the law, arguing it violates the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

Racial: The law’s impact on racial minorities, particularly those who may practice religions other than Christianity or none at all, is significant. The display of the Ten Commandments could be seen as a form of cultural imposition, reinforcing a specific religious and cultural narrative that may not reflect the diverse backgrounds of all students. This could exacerbate feelings of marginalization among non-Christian students and parents, highlighting ongoing issues of inclusion and representation in public schools.

Gender: While the law does not directly address gender issues, it contributes to the broader conversation about whose values and beliefs are prioritized in public education. The enforcement of a predominantly Christian symbol can sideline the perspectives and experiences of those who might not align with these religious views, including women and LGBTQ+ individuals who may face different interpretations and implications of religious doctrines.

Economic: Economically, the requirement for donations to fund these displays raises questions about the financial burden on communities and potential inequities. Schools in wealthier areas might more easily afford the displays, while those in less affluent districts could struggle to comply. This disparity could lead to uneven implementation and further highlight economic divides within the state’s education system.