Atheist, Daughter Challenge Law

October 27, 2007

Author: Tara Malone

Source: Chicago Tribune

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-silentsuitnew_27oct27,1,178548.story

A 14-year-old suburban girl and her dad, atheist activist Rob Sherman, filed a lawsuit Friday in U.S. District Court that challenges the constitutionality of a law requiring Illinois public schools to observe a moment of silence.

Sherman and his daughter Dawn, a freshman at Buffalo Grove High School, contend that the law providing for "silent prayer or for silent reflection on the anticipated activities of the day" runs afoul of the constitutional separation of church and state.

The Shermans are seeking an injunction that would prevent the observance of a moment of silence in Township High School District 214, which is scheduled to begin the practice Tuesday. They also hope to reverse the statute statewide, said Gregory Kulis, an attorney representing the father and daughter.