We need your help! The Kern County Board of Education is considering a proposal to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom in the county. This alarming initiative threatens the secular foundation of our public schools and undermines the constitutional principle of separation between state and church.
The Board will entertain the proposal at an upcoming meeting on Dec. 17. Please join us in helping to oppose this misguided effort.
Public schools serve both students of all faiths and none. Imposing religious displays violates the religious freedom of every child and family, creating an exclusionary environment. Courts have consistently ruled that such actions are unconstitutional, as they promote one specific religious viewpoint over others. No court has upheld the display of the Ten Commandments in a public school, even when the Ten Commandments were among other displays.
The District’s promotion of the 10 Commandments would turn any non-Christian or non-believing student, parent, or staff member into an outsider. Schoolchildren already feel significant pressure to conform from their peers. They must not be subjected to similar pressure from their school, especially on religious questions.
What You Can Do:
- Contact the Kern County Board of Education
Urge board members to vote no on this proposal. Make it clear that promoting religious doctrine in public schools is inappropriate, divisive, and unlawful.- Email: You can use the “Take Action” button below to send a customizable email to the School Board. We have provided suggested language, but you are able to modify the email as you see fit.
- Attend the Board Meeting
The vote will take place on December 17 in room 1A of the City Centre Building, 1300 17th Street, in Bakersfield. Show up to express your opposition and demonstrate your support for secular education. - Spread the Word
Share this message with your friends, family, and local community. The more voices the board hears, the stronger our case will be.
Your action today can help protect the integrity of our public schools and uphold our constitutional rights.
Thank you for standing up for secular education.
(Note: You must live in Kern County to take part in this action alert.)