Trump-Linked Groups Distribute Bibles and Outdated Constitution in OK Schools
Several Oklahoma public schools recently received copies of the Bible and an outdated U.S. Constitution as part of a conservative-backed initiative endorsed by former President Donald Trump. The move has ignited debates over church-state separation, historical accuracy, and political influence in education.
Who’s Behind the Distribution?
The materials were provided by The Danbury Institute, a Christian conservative group, alongside Project Blitz, a coalition advocating for religion-based legislation. Trump has long supported placing Bibles and Constitutions in schools to promote “patriotic education.”
However, critics flagged a major issue: the distributed Constitution excluded pivotal amendments, such as:
– The 14th Amendment (citizenship for formerly enslaved people).
– The 19th Amendment (women’s suffrage).
This omission raised concerns about misleading historical narratives.
Reactions: Support vs. Backlash
Supporters, including Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters, argue the materials reinforce “Judeo-Christian foundations” of U.S. law.
Critics, including the ACLU and Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), highlight three key problems:
1. Legal risks: Distributing Bibles in public schools may violate the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause.
2. Historical gaps: An outdated Constitution erases progress on civil rights.
3. Political timing: The 2024 election cycle suggests a push to mobilize conservative voters.
Oklahoma’s Conservative Education Push
Oklahoma has been a testing ground for right-wing education policies, including bans on critical race theory (CRT) and LGBTQ+ discussions. Governor Kevin Stitt and Superintendent Walters have framed such initiatives as combating “liberal indoctrination.”
What’s Next?
- Legal challenges may arise if schools use the materials in curricula.
- Some districts are reviewing whether accepting the donations complies with state and federal laws.
- Similar efforts could spread to other Republican-led states ahead of 2024.
Key Takeaways
- Bibles and an incomplete Constitution were distributed in OK schools under Trump-affiliated programs.
- Critics call it a violation of church-state separation and historical revisionism.
- The controversy mirrors nationwide fights over religion in schools and education politicization.
Should religious texts and edited historical documents be allowed in public schools? Share your perspective below.
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