TODAY: Enfield School Board to Re-Vote on Possible Appeal in Fight for Church Graduations

“Holding a secular event at a religious facility does not constitute an endorsement of or entanglement with religion. We believe we have a strong case to appeal.” - Vincent McCarthy, Sr. Attorney, American Center for Law and Justice

WASHINGTON, June 8, 2010— The Enfield School Board will reconvene tonight to re-vote whether to appeal a preliminary injunction issued by the U.S. District Court of Connecticut in the case of Does v. Enfield.  The preliminary injunction prohibited two Enfield School District high schools from holding their graduation ceremonies in a local church this year.  The initial vote last Thursday resulted in a 5-4 decision not to appeal.  But when a member of the board requested a re-vote, the school board decided to reconvene. 

The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), which specializes in constitutional law, is representing the school district in the case. 

"A member of the Enfield School Board requested another vote to clarify the options," said ACLJ Sr. Attorney Vincent McCarthy.  "The school board is conducting a re-vote because they want to ensure they have considered all options and are giving the students the best possible outcome." 

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WHAT: Enfield School Board Meeting

WHEN: TODAY, Tuesday, June 8 at 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Henry Barnard Elementary School - 27 Shaker Road, Enfield, CT 06082

INTERVIEWS:  ACLJ Sr. Attorney Vince McCarthy will be available for on-site interviews after the school board meeting.  To schedule a phone interview, contact Kelly Wells or Kelsey Ware at 770-813-0000.

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Five school districts in Connecticut-including the Enfield School District-had plans to hold graduation ceremonies at First Cathedral in 2010.  However, after the districts received letters from the ACLU threatening legal action, all but Enfield changed their initial plans.

Enfield School District's decision to hold graduation at First Cathedral was primarily based on financial and facilities considerations.  Even though other venues were explored, each could not meet the low cost and high facility standard offered by First Cathedral. 

Led by Chief Counsel Jay Sekulow, the American Center for Law and Justice focuses on constitutional law and is based in Washington, D.C.  The ACLJ is online at www.aclj.org. 

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