In our opinion: ACLU: The big bully
Fifteen years ago, following the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, there was one song that became a rallying cry for our country. “God Bless America” was sung by Americans everywhere, regardless of their ethnic background or religious beliefs.
The most public places where this took place were at professional sporting events — before the start of NFL games and in the seventh inning stretch of MLB games. Fifteen years later, the practice still continues at many sporting venues in the United States.
Piggybacking on this practice, an elementary school in a local school district began saying “God bless America” following the Pledge of Allegiance, which, let’s not forget, also includes the word “god.”
But now, 15 years into this practice, the American Civil Liberties Union has said enough is enough, and Glenview Elementary School in Haddon Heights will no longer be saying “God bless America.”
The principal at the school, Sam Sassano, defended the practice, writing to parents that, “it has been our view that the practice is fundamentally patriotic in nature and does not invoke or advance any religious message, despite the specific reference to God’s blessing.” Alas, the school won’t be having its students say the phrase “God bless America” after they say “one nation, under God.”
Congratulations, ACLU, you have succeeded. While children will be taught about the founding of our country and the rights we as Americans have, they will be faced with the fact that if a group as big or as strong as the ACLU pressures you, you have no choice but to succumb to its wishes.
While our children will be learning about the dangers of bullying, they will be confronted with the fact that if you are big enough and if you bully hard enough, you can get what you want.
Thank you, ACLU. Keep fighting the good fight.
