Which constitutional clause is central to rulings in Engel, Abington, and Lee regarding religion in public life?

Which constitutional clause is central to rulings in Engel, Abington, and Lee regarding religion in public life?

• A. Free Speech Clause
• B. Equal Protection Clause
• C. Establishment Clause
• D. Due Process Clause

Answer: (C)

The Establishment Clause of the First Amendment prohibits the government from establishing an official religion or otherwise endorsing religion in public life. In Engel v. Vitale, the Court struck down a state-written prayer in public schools as an unconstitutional act of government endorsement. In Abington School District v. Schempp, it struck down school-sponsored devotional Bible readings for the same reason. In Lee v. Weisman, it invalidated a clergy-led prayer at a public high school graduation on the grounds that it coerces participation and effectively endorses religion. Taken together, these decisions show how the Establishment Clause limits government involvement with religion in public institutions, maintaining neutrality and separation between church and state.

The Establishment Clause of the First Amendment prohibits the government from establishing an official religion or otherwise endorsing religion in public life. In Engel v. Vitale, the Court struck down a state-written prayer in public schools as an unconstitutional act of government endorsement. In Abington School District v. Schempp, it struck down school-sponsored devotional Bible readings for the same reason. In Lee v. Weisman, it invalidated a clergy-led prayer at a public high school graduation on the grounds that it coerces participation and effectively endorses religion. Taken together, these decisions show how the Establishment Clause limits government involvement with religion in public institutions, maintaining neutrality and separation between church and state.