CONGRESS URGED TO HASTEN ACTION ON PROPOSED FEDERAL AID TO EDUCATION

WHEREAS there is a definite and recognized need for federal aid to the states and territories to help maintain an adequate minimum program of education and to equalize educational opportunities in public elementary and secondary schools.

WHEREAS the American Ethical Union believes that the American tradition of the separation of Church and State should be vigorously and zealously safeguarded.

WHEREAS the American Ethical Union respects the right of groups, including religious denominations, to maintain their own schools so long as such schools meet the educational, health and safety standards defined by the states in which they are located.

WHEREAS the American Ethical Union believes that such aforementioned schools should be financed entirely by their supporters.

BE IT RESOLVED that the American Ethical Union urges the Congress of the United States to:

1. Hasten the passage of legislation to provide such federal aid to public elementary and secondary schools in the states and territories.

2. Provide specifically that such aid be limited exclusively to tax-supported and publicly controlled elementary and secondary schools within each of the states and territories receiving such aid.

3. Provide specifically for judicial review of the administration of the funds so allocated to prevent unlawful diversion of such funds for sectarian purposes.

4. Provide specifically that each state and territory so allocate the funds that each child regardless of race, color or creed will be entitled to a set minimum standard of education before additional funds are made available to any schools within such state or territory.

Source: Whereas ... 1962

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