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SCOTUS Ruling an Unambiguous Win for Religious Liberty

June 20, 2019

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) released the following statement after the Supreme Court decided in a 7-2 ruling that the Bladensburg Memorial Cross does not violate the Establishment Clause and may remain on public land:

"Today's Supreme Court ruling is an unambiguous win for religious liberty. Throughout the course of this case, I was proud to lead two amicus briefs to the court on behalf of concerned Members of Congress supporting the preservation of the Bladensburg Peace Cross. The Peace Cross is a testament to the sacrifice of 49 American soldiers who gave their lives in service to their country.

"When anti-religious freedom activists sued to deface or demolish this memorial, I am deeply grateful that the American Legion stood up to defend the role of religion in our history and way of life. The Establishment Clause should not be used as a weapon against religion. Religious freedom is nothing less than the bedrock upon which our nation was founded, and this ruling is a victory for all Americans."

In July 2018, Whip Scalise and Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), with the support of 109 fellow members of Congress, filed an amicus brief to stand up for religious freedom and the memory-of and tributes-to our fallen soldiers.