Thursday, June 07, 2007

Will A Disclaimer Avoid Establishment Clause Issues In Graduation?

Some public high schools in Connecticut are holding their graduation ceremonies in church buildings in order to provide sufficient space for all who wish to attend. Yesterday's Jewish Ledger reports that both the ACLU and the Anti Defamation League have expressed Establishment Clause concerns. At least two schools have decided that placing a disclaimer on their website is the way to handle the matter. South Windsor High School's disclaimer reads: "The selection of First Cathedral as the site for graduation offers the best facility for our needs at an acceptable cost. The selection of this venue in no way represents an endorsement by the school district of a specific religion or religion in general."