Decalogue Debate

I have accepted an invitation from the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life to participate in a debate concerning the constitutionality of public displays of the Ten Commandments.  This event occurs February 24th -- just days before the Supreme Court hears oral arguments in two cases involving the display of the Ten Commandments.

This will be an interesting and important opportunity.  On the other side of the issue is Doug Laycock of the University of Texas School of Law.  I debated him last year at a similiar event concerning the constitutionality of the Pledge of Allegiance and the phrase "under God."

As you know, we have filed amicus briefs with the Supreme Court in the two Commandments cases to be heard March 2nd -- a case out of Kentucky and one out of Texas.  At the Pew Forum event, I will get an opportunity to present the facts concerning the history and importance that the Commandments have played in the formation of our legal system in this country.  In fact, in the U.S. Supreme Court building itself there are numerous displays involving Moses and the Commandments -- including inside the very chamber where the Justices will hear arguments.  And, as we have pointed out in our brief, on at least seven occasions, members of the Supreme Court have noted the foundational role of the Ten Commandments in the development of our legal system.

I look forward to the opportunity to present a case supporting the display of the Commandments in communities across America.  Without question, the Commandments are a part of our heritage - our culture - and our legal system.