A work of art has been hanging in an Oklahoma Middle School for 18 years. “Faith in America” by artist Donald Zolan depicts two children praying in front of an American Flag. The print has never stirred up attention pr received any complaints until recently when an atheist group called The Freedom from Religion Foundation demanded that it be taken down. They stated that it violates the U.S. Constitution, and forces chilren who are non-religious to look at it when they go to the office for school matters.
Attorney Anthony Childers responded to the group saying,”We cannot agree that the poster displayed in the office is a per se violation of the Establishment Clause of the United States Constitution. Though, as you’ve pointed out, the title given to the artwork by the original artist is labeled ‘Faith in America,’ there is no text displayed with the poster which imputes the artist’s intent, theme, or title.”
The school district further pointed out that the print does not allude to any sect or particular religious organization, and they will not be removing it.
The atheist group is not backing down however, and it continuing to push for removal of the art.
What are your thoughts? Is the school pushing religion on students by displaying this piece of art?
