As a young teen, William J. Murray became the central figure in the 1963 U.S. Supreme Court decision banning prayer in the nation's public schools. His mother, prominent atheist activist Madalyn Murray O'Hair, objected to any form of religious expression in the schools, and filed suit on behalf of her son. Today, William Murray has dedicated his life to safeguarding and extending the cause of religious freedom. Shot on location in England, France and the U.S., Murray traces the history and background of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and examines the roots of the "wall of separation" between church and state. This film essay will help your students gain a deeper understanding of the roots of free speech and the right to religious liberty envisioned by our Founders. They also will understand that religious freedom is intended to extend to all citizens--not merely those who practice the majority faith.

Outline:
Prayer discussed. First Amendment, its meaning and history introduced.
History: Religious persecution in England? Lack of separation of church and state.
Pilgrims and theocracy; No separation of church and state.
Why did US separate church and state? Locke's (and Jefferson's) belief intolerance.
US history covered from colonial rebellion to British surrender.
Constitution ratified with Bill of Rights insuring religious freedom. Why?
Catholic Riots in England explored and their effect on the writing of the First Amendment.
Introduce Madalyn Murray O'Hair, her atheism.
Story: Murray O'Hair's conflicts with school officials regarding school prayer.
...lead to Supreme Court involvement and decision. School prayer unconstitutional.
Discussion of removing sacred from public life.
Various attacks on religious freedom explored.
Did Supreme court, in defending one right, throw out another?
Understanding Secularism: a religion? How can any value system be value free?
Importance of restoration of religious freedom.
Examples of religious persecution in US schools.
A parable regarding possibility of banning all religious expression.
A summons to restore religious freedom.

Teachers tell us:
"Very good historical review of concept of separation of church and state. W. Murray was an excellent documenter as part of original S.C. Decision." - Assistant Administrator, California

"I liked the history the film incorporated. I also liked the personal insight into the main players provided in the film." - Teacher, Ohio

"This video tied in with our study of the Constitution and the First Amendment. Excellent discussion."- Principal/Government Teacher, South Carolina

"Got the information and message across without preaching. Excellent video. Well-done. Use of old news footage good. Bill Murray makes believable his views. Historical background of church/state separation good." - Journalism Teacher, Illinois

Student reactions:
" Found it informative. Students did not know about school prayer being allowed prior to 1963; did not know about this Supreme Court case."

" Held their attention."