Teachers in Arizona could soon be allowed to place the phrase “God Enriches” inside of their classrooms. According to text from SB 1289, it would enable a teacher or administrator in any school in Arizona to read or post in any school building copies or excerpts of the following materials:
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The national motto “IN GOD WE TRUST”
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The national anthem
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The pledge of allegiance
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The preamble to the constitution of this state
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The declaration of independence
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The Mayflower compact
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Writings, speeches, documents and proclamations of the founding fathers and the presidents of the United States
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Published decisions of the United States supreme court
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Acts of the United States Congress
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THE STATE MOTTO “DITAT DEUS”, WHICH MEANS “GOD ENRICHES”
Although the state Senate along with the Republicans on the Education Committee approved the bill; it still requires endorsement of the full House before it gets passed. Tory Roberg, lobbyist for the Secular Coalition for Arizona, is objecting the bill and told lawmakers: “The English translation of the motto is not the Arizona state motto. We’re talking about allowing teachers to put a sign on the wall with the words ‘God enriches’ with no explanation.”
Rep. Rusty Bowers, R-Mesa, doesn’t consider the words to be intolerant. “All it would say to someone who believed is there might be some power, any power, as they wish to identify it,” he said.