Faith or freedom? Wisconsin bill sparks debate over displaying ‘In God We Trust’ motto in public schools

A new bill introduced by three Wisconsin GOP lawmakers seeks to require public schools across the state to display the national motto "In God We Trust" in every classroom. The proposal, led by Republican Sen. Cory Tomczyk of Mosinee and Reps. Joy Goeben of Hobart and Nate Gustafson of Fox Crossing, would mandate that all public school buildings showcase the motto within six months of the bill’s passage and by the 2026-27 school year at the latest.
This move is part of a growing national trend, with several states, including Florida, South Carolina, and Arkansas, already enacting similar laws. According to the lawmakers, the initiative seeks to continue a post-9/11 movement where "In God We Trust" was increasingly displayed in public spaces.
In God We Trust: A Historic National Motto
"In God We Trust" has been the national motto since 1956, first appearing on US coins during the Civil War. It is still found on American currency today. As quoted by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the lawmakers noted that their bill is not an isolated case, but part of a broader wave of legislative actions across the country in recent years.
The proposed bill mandates that the motto be displayed in at least an 11-inch by 14-inch format. The measure also aligns with existing law, which already requires US flags to be displayed in schoolrooms.
Controversy and Legal Precedents
While the bill has garnered support, the inclusion of religious language in government buildings has sparked legal debates over the years. Critics argue that it may infringe on First Amendment rights regarding the freedom of religion. However, as reported by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the US Court of Appeals ruled in 2018 that the motto is constitutional, and the Supreme Court rejected a case in 2019 challenging its use.
The bill's future is uncertain, with Gov. Tony Evers yet to comment on the proposal. As Wisconsin considers joining the growing list of states requiring the motto's display, the debate over the separation of church and state continues.