Student Sues School For Zero Grade on ‘Religious’ Art

by TheBigRuski | April 1, 2008 at 10:22 am | 701 views | 7 comments

Yet another church and state story out of Madison, Wisconsin. At issue: a student's art landscape piece that included a cross and the words "John 3:16 A sign of love."

This from the Associated Press:

MADISON, Wis. — A Tomah High School student has filed a federal lawsuit alleging his art teacher censored his drawing because it featured a cross and a biblical reference.

The lawsuit alleges other students were allowed to draw “demonic” images and asks a judge to declare a class policy prohibiting religion in art unconstitutional.

“We hear so much today about tolerance,” said David Cortman, an attorney with the Alliance Defense Fund, a Christian legal advocacy group representing the student. “But where is the tolerance for religious beliefs? The whole purpose of art is to reflect your own personal experience. To tell a student his religious beliefs can legally be censored sends the wrong message.”

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amyjudd

at 11:00 on April 1st, 2008

good stuff:

TheBigRuski, I like this story. It's amazing how many people file lawsuits these days. I'm not saying this one's not justified, but I'm not sure a lawsuit is the best option.

TheBigRuski

at 19:48 on April 1st, 2008

But, a wake-up call is...and that just may mean this lawsuit!

BigT

at 16:54 on April 1st, 2008

good stuff:

Is it bad if I am praying the school district gets sued and loses big time?

As I see it the school is totally destroying this kids first amendment rights to free speech and to practice his religion.

TheBigRuski

at 19:50 on April 1st, 2008

I'm praying there is a huge national uproar and backlash to the school! Stupidity can never win in the end.

politisite

at 17:28 on April 1st, 2008

good stuff:

TheBigRuski, We fight for the first amendment when it comes to freedom of press. The first part of the amendment ; however, is the establishment clause. Schools have misinterpreted the clause as meaning that a teacher cannot allow expression of religous art or speech by a student. The High Court has never rulled that a child cannot express him/herself spiritually in a school setting. The issue is that the teacher is not allowed to push a belief system as he is representing the government. Isn't it interesting that the same teacher allows children to draw demons and dragons. If he stopped a Muslim from drawing a Moon and a star, they would send the teacher to sensitivity training and probably sue the school system.

Thanks for bringing this story to NP

TheBigRuski

at 19:52 on April 1st, 2008

Absolutely! I thought "art" was one of those things that has the most latitude when it comes to expression. But you know...there were people that were offended by Jesus some nearly 2,000 years ago...so why should anything be different now?!

Rhonda J Mangus

at 05:42 on April 2nd, 2008

good stuff:

TheBigRuski, stupidity never wins in the end:)! The teacher here obviously used poor judgment and likely due to a falsely held belief/interpretation as Politisite stated. I agree that this should be cause for National uproar. Student rights to free expression are being usurped daily by public school institutions and this student should certainly be commended for having the presence of mind not to let this one slide.

Thanks for bringing this story to NP! Look forward to updates!