Since the founding of our nation, public officials have often quoted scripture for the purpose of encouragement or inspiration.

Citing a quotation from any text – sacred or secular – is completely protected by the free speech clause of the First Amendment of the Constitution.

This right is confirmed by Supreme Court precedent and the longstanding history and tradition.

But the Peoria Unified School District in Arizona has been preventing School Board Member Heather Rooks from exercising that right since 2023.

This past Friday, First Liberty attorneys along with our volunteer attorneys from Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP urged the U.S. District Court of Arizona to uphold Heather Rooks’ right to recite scripture during the meetings.

Watch this interview with First Liberty attorney David Hacker to learn what happened in the courtroom, what’s at stake in this case and what comes next for Heather.

Public officials don’t have to “check their faith” at the door and abandon their beliefs simply because they work for the government. Censoring religious speech betrays what religious freedom in America is all about.

Unfortunately, that’s just what many state and local officials are determined to do.

That’s why getting a win for Heather and the countless Americans impacted by this case is so critical. We must send a clear message to these out-of-control officials that religious censorship won’t be tolerated.

Not now...Not ever!

But Friday’s hearing at the U.S. District Court of Arizona is just the first step in what could be a long legal battle.

A battle that we can’t win without your steadfast support.

Together, we’ve taken on state and local governments before and won big. And together, we can do the same for Heather.

Will you join us in the fight against religious censorship?

Yes, I will make a gift today! >>