A statue at a Georgia High School is drawing controversy after atheist and humanist groups complained that the monument’s biblical inscriptions are violations of the Constitution. The Freedom from Religion Foundation and the American Humanist Association are demanding that the county remove the monument or remove the religious inscriptions.
AHA legal director David Noise said: "It was a colossal lapse of judgment to allow the monument as part of the public school environment. It sends a clear message that the school favors Christianity, despite the fact that it is a public school that must welcome all students."
The statue at Madison County High School in Danielsville boasts two verse from the bible: Romans 8:31 and Philippians 4:13. It was paid for by a donor.
The Madison’s Red Raiders team has a tradition to touch the statue as they head to the football field.
"They think it gives them good luck. I say we live in a free nation and let's exercise our freedoms and beliefs," said Morris Stevens, whose sons play football for the team.
The school is reportedly looking into the matter.
Publication date: September 29, 2014