Stick to your principles. ONE student objects and hundreds of students and their families must knuckle under? Absurd! Hold the graduation at Elmbrook Church and I'll be glad to contribute to your defense fund. This has got to stop! And let's name that plaintiff.

Yes, just what we need, more ridiculous lawsuits. The event is a public event that just happens to be located in a church, which was chosen because of its size needed to hold the event with room enough for everyone to sit comfortably. They are not attending a religious event, they are not going to be handing out bibles, they are not going to have ministers there. Nobody is going to be asking you at the door whether or not you're a Christian or believe in God in order to be able to enter. It's not a religious event, the school isn't promoting religion. It's having a high school graduation ceremony! To say that this is an issue of separation of church and state is absolutely ridiculous. I hope the Brookfield school district sticks to its guns and doesn't let the few who need attention for their own radical political agenda, ruin it for the rest of the graduating class and their families.

As a 1982 graduate of Brookfield East, I understand the issues and constraints of holding graduation at the high school - it was miserable in 1982 I can only expect it is that much worse in 2009. I do however support the suggestion to find a nonsecular location - there are many in the area. The church is beautiful but I myself would not want my graduation in a church as I know I had friends that would not have been comfortable attending in a church. Be realistic and find a location that everyone is comfortable in. Also, if the church refuses to let the district cover the crucifix, then absolutely do NOT hold it there.

Yes, if only to avoid spending unnecessary dollars on this issue.

No student should be forced to graduate in this mega-church. The message it sends is government and the church are all part of the same thing. What if this place was a Muslim mosque or Hebrew Temple? Keep religion out of school and schools out of religion. There are no "principles" up for debate, the law bans this kind of thing and if you don't like the Constitution, then you really don't believe in America. Today a church, tomorrow a mosque. Think before speaking.

They absolutely should NOT stop utilizing Elmbrook Church for graduation ceremonies to appease a group of people whose only real purpose is to foment hatred against all people of faith. The district has used Elmbrook Church for these ceremonies for over 15 years without incident or insult to the participants or the surrounding community, and doing so has in fact been an absolute boon to all involved. You do not defeat hatred and intolerance (which is what the AUSCS is all about) by bowing down to it; you only do that by standing up to it until it crumbles under it's own weight.

NO, yhere is not No, there is nothing wrong with renting the facility. these people need to stop trying to impose their will on others! hing wrong with renting thr facility

I am a public school teacher and agree with the separation of church and state. However, in this situation, this lawsuit is ludicrous. Who does it hurt?? And what responsible parent files a lawsuit like this knowing that the resulting legal fees will siphon funds away from their child's classroom? I have attended graduations at Elmbrook and found the venue to be quite comfortable, particularly for the many older and disabled adults who attended -- including those who were relatives of non-Christian students, who incidentally didn't care that they were in a Christian church. The event, not the venue, is what's important here. Good luck, Elmbrook.

No. They should hold it at the nearest Kabbalah, People's Temple, or Islamic center. All this people who are in favor of allowing the "freedom" to hold governmental activities (yes, public schools are a government activity) to be held at churches quickly change their tune when the faith turns out to be non-Christian. I have these debates with people all the time- it's always the same. If it's Christian, of course it's okay. If it's non-Christian, it's "why are all these people trying to force their religion down our throats". Same old, same old. Keep it out of all religious centers.

Yes. Move the ceremony out of a religous setting. Imagine how uncomfortable those who are not of this religion. I thought there was separation of church and state?

OUr son graduated from Brookfield Central and we had the same the same issue and the graduation was held in the Gym at BC. It was 90 degrees and sitting on the bleachers was almost unbearable - peole did faint. If the group can find a suitable place with A/C, lets get this controversy over with - it comes up ever year. They always tell us where not to have the ceremony but never have a solution.

Absolutely NOT! The ceremony should go on as scheduled. The venue is use by many non-religious organizations for various functions. This is a ridiculous wast of time and energy.

Yes! I was forced to attend a commencement at this tacky church and it was gross beyond description. There are plenty of plush secular places in the area where commencements may be held if the gyms aren't good enough. BTW, they were good enough for more than 40 years! Superintendent Gibson is a member of the church and this practice is nothing more than a way for him and other benighted true believers in the city to insinuate Jesus into every second of what should be a purely secular event.

From Jane in Cudahy: "What if this place was a Muslim mosque or Hebrew Temple?" If the mosque or temple held 3,000 people and had AC, then I would have no issues with holding it there either.

I believe the district should move the graduations to a secular setting. Having graduation for a public school in a clearly religious setting is inappropriate. There is much more at issue here than space needs. I am surprised that the administration doesn't understand that. By the way, I had three children who graduated from Brookfield East in the 1980s and I would definitely have objected if the graduations had been held at ElmBrook Church...a church that is noted for its proselytizing. It is no secret that a certain faction in our country wants to undo the separation of church and state. Again, why doesn't the ElmBrook administration understand that?

No! And it should be none of this third party's concern.

Pure and simple, the kind of people who make issues out of things like this are just nut jobs who find ways to be "offended" by just about anything. The decision to hold graduation at this facility most likely had everything to do with the physical aspects of the facility (size, A/V requirements, disabled accessibility, etc) and nothing to do with religion. Some people obviously have either too much time on their hands or too much money than they know what to do with if they actually have the time/resources to create controversy out of situations like this.

In Response To Jane: You also should think, or at least research before you speak. No where in the constitution is anything mentioned about separating church and state. That term is derived from a letter Thomas Jefferson sent, which is not the constitution. What the constitution does read in the 1st amendment is "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ". No where in this idea to use a physical facility for a school function does this create a law that establishes a religion. Regarding the question: Of course this should be allowed. If I were attending, I would much prefer the ElmBrook facility (or insert any other facility including a mosk if it were comparable in size and function) to what is typically done, cramming way too many people into a stuffy hot gym with metal folding chairs and bleachers.

The graduation should be allowed as planned, unless there is some scheduled religious activities during the ceremonies. The separation of church and state has been twisted to the extreme by these little groups. The separation is to disallow any government group from "practicing" or "pushing" one specific religion, not from using a building as a temporary meeting place. There are ways to be respectful to both the church and all attending the graduation program.

The Americans United for Separation of Church and State seems to be an advocacy group that is not necessarily concerned with the separation of church and state but just taking God out of everything in society. It seems like this group might have had a good basis but this lawsuit seems to go too far, much like what the ACLU is supposed to be about. Their idea is to sue if things don't agree with their agenda. That's democracy at it's greatest right there! Everyone gets their voice heard, well at least if you belong to those advocacy groups. Coming from a Christian background I may seem biased on this front but it is a little silly. The only thing I do understand is the Cross concern. If I went to a public school growing up and my school decided to have graduation at a Mosque instead of a public venue, I think I would have objected too. I would not want to graduate in a building that supports the Koran and Holy Wars. It's a sticky situation for both parties but there can be a better resolution than a lawsuit, this just makes the US look more and more stupid.

Give me a break, the school should be able to hold it at the church period.

The school superintendent said there were other locations that would have suited their needs. They never should have used the church to begin with. The religious zealots need to settle down since they squeal whenever they disagree with something.

Yes, keep it at the church, this should be a non-story!

Don't cave. Have the gaduation as planned. This stuff has to challenged.

Why should Muslim or Jewish or Hindu or Athiest kids be forced (yes, FORCED by their government school) to have their last memory and photograph of graduation be under a giant Christian cross? Can you imagine the howls of outrage if this was being held in a mosque or synagogue? There would be riots from all the "good" Xtian parents. This should be a no-brainer for the courts: injunction to immediately stop this government endorsement of religion.

Elmbrook church should Not cover the cross. They are altready moving church "symbols" not permanently fixed in place. This isssue is only for this year's graduation as the high school expansion of the gym will be completed for next year' graduation. Don't cover the cross or other fixed "religious symbols". If forced to moved to a hot crowded gym, then the 330+ families can discuss their displeasure with the 9 families who filed the lawsuit, if these cowards would identify themselves!

My3 children graduated from Brookfield Central. 2 graduations were held in the gym...horrible environment for everyone, especially disabled and elderly. OUr last child's was held at Elmbrook...beautiful graduation. Comfortable and NOT at all a religious environment for the graduation or intimidating. Stop this madness fight this lawsuit. This group is infringing on our rights to choose!!!!

While this starts out as separation of church and state, there is also the affect it has on students and parents who belong to other religions. They should not be forced to participate in a ceremony at a place that offers alternate views. Students who do not belong to this church should not have to have religious symbols from there in their high school graduations photos. Unless every one expected to participate in the ceremony belongs to the same religion offered at Elmbrook Church, this was a very poor choice of venue.

I don't think some of the people who are posting here understand that the church never removes anything that it normally has in place. Last June I checked and all the posters, bibles, banners, hymnals, crosses, etc. were in place. It's a church. Anyone reading this who is in one of the school systems that is still planning on using the church for commencement should contact Americans United as soon as possible.

This is really just another example of a left wing fringe activist group (they're probably all Obama-ites) flying in from the east coast to meddle in every day peoples' activities and lives. This event should ABSOLUTELY continue as planned just to defy these wackos. There is separation of church and state, but the school is not forcing them to attend a church service, they are merely holding their ceremonies in a building. What makes a church a church? Is it different from any other building when you really think about it? No one is going to have religion forced down their throats here, and if seeing a cross makes them squirm, it is still not a reason to hold hundreds of families who are fine with it being in a large, comfortable, climate controlled environment from doing that. Why should the church be treated like a disease? It is not. No one will be forcing religion on anyone, and to not have the ceremony in this building would be stupid. The parking and seating capacity is comfortable for everyone, so why not.

Does anyone really think the Elmbrook Schools chose Elmbrook Church as the site for graduation for any reason other than to accommodate the community? I find it sad that the effort the district has taken to accommodate the the large number of family and community members that attend graduation is now threatening to sue. Who would ever think that the community would force the district money to be spent on a lawsuit instead of the children..... think about that. You should be ashamed of yourselves.

The Silent Majority better wake up and smell the roses. Who are these people that are trying to run our lives? Enough is enough!

No, the ceremony should be allowed to held at Elmbrrok church. This is the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. if one small group doesn't like it or it offended ; then they could opt out of attending. It is not a religious event. i haapen to come from a large family and would like to see Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, Aunts and Uncles attend.Apparently my rights are not being considered only this group with their agenda.The person thry are representing is a coward or they would say their name and stand up for what they believe. They do not know what they believe that is the problem. Whoever the person in the lawsuit is doesn not realize that they are being used.

YES!!! I think that the people of Elmbrook should hold their graduation in any building that they choose. When we have an election, that majority rules, right? The same should apply in this case. A church is just mortr and stone, as is any other building. It is the activity that takes place within the building that makes it a church. As a house is not a home, without love within it, a church is only a building without a church service or mass within it. Are the Atheists so threatened by a cross, or the fact that 90+% of this country believes in God? People too often interperet what the meaning of "seperation of church and state" really implies. What it really means is that the government has no right to endorse any religion over the other, and the church has no real rights to influence the government, with its religious beliefs. The "STATE" and "CHURCH" must operate independantly of each other. LET THE MAJORITY RUL, AND LET'S MOVE ON!!!!! If it were up to the Atheists of this country, churches and religion would be banned completely. Don't for one second think that the problems that we have in this country, don't revolve around anti-religion efforts and beliefs. HOLD YOUR GRADUATION IN ANY BUILDING THAT YOU WANT!!! LET THE MAJORITY SPEAK AND RULE.

One more point. Are the people that are against the people of Elmbrook having their graduation in a church, the same people who would refuse to attend a wedding of their friends, because they either have a different religious belief, or they are athieists?

Yes, graduation should be held at Elmbrook Church. The gym is too small, so family would be limited. The bleachers are not grandparent friendly and it is usually to hot to put that many people together in an unairconditioned building for so long.

Whilst, I DO have problems with a church being used for graduation, I think that it would be grossly unfair to the gradating class, their families and school district to change the venue for this year. As both High Schools are in the midst of being remodeled, it would be impossible to hold the graduation ceremony there. However, if the plaintiffs, would like to give the money for an alternative site, as well as donating their time to all the re- arranging of the graduation ceremonies, in a place that is capable of meeting the seating requirements , is air-conditioned and easily accessible for all people, then maybe a change could be considered!

If these people really feel they are speaking for the majority, why do they feel the need to remain anonymous? That right there says everything you need to know about this. Suck it up, buttercup.

Common sense says it should be at Elmbrook Church. It has the size and facilities needed and a convenient location. If it were a 3,000-seat, air-conditioned mosque or temple (Hindu or otherwise), I would not object to it. Another venue would limit the number of people or those with disabilities or some other group. Mitchell (dog) Park, the ice rink, Best Buy or the school itself really aren't options.

I can't believe this farce. I've attended many graduations at hot, cramped high school gyms and have attended graduations, including my son's, at Elmbrook Church. There is no comparison. I am not of the "faith" that Elmbrook preaches and it does not offend me one bit. The people of Elmbrook Church do not force their religion down anyone's throats and remove all religious articles except the cross. The cross is NOT in the background of the graduate's pictures. The people who have filed the lawsuit are cowards. If you want to make a fuss about this nonsense - stand up and be seen. Show us who you are and defend yourselves. Don't hide behind "anonymous". How will your graduate feel if only two people can attend their graduation? Because if they are moved to the school gyms (which are extremely small) there will not be enough room for more than two people from each graduate's family. Some will not abide by that so it will be totally overcrowded. I will be attending both Central's and East's commencement ceremonies this year and having them at an air conditioned, comfortable facility that can hold ALL the graduate's family and friends is awesome. If the graduation were to be held at a Temple or other religious facility, it wouldn't matter to me. The school district is holding the graduation at this facility for that purpose only - it is a FACILITY that can house the needs of that many people! This is the last year that the graduations will be held at the church. Why bother now - a little more than month before the ceremony? How about we all come to your house and have it there? Would you be happy then?

How riduculous! Back in 1967 our high school graduation was held in a church also. No one complained and everyone turned out just fine. It is a graduation ceremony not a church service. Schools do not need to spend this kind of money to build their own building for a once a year celebration. It is time a few people are stopped from ruining things for many people over such riduculous reasons.

Americans United for the Seperation of Church and State are violating their own rules. They are all Atheists and promoting their religion against Christianity by suing anybody who they feel is promoting their religion or even helping out the public.

As a graduate of a Brookfield High School, I saw the ceremony held in the small gym at Brookfield East and one held at Elmbrook church. When it was held in the gym, it was hot and stuffy and there was a limit to how many family members could attend the ceremony, plus many elderly could not attend because of the heat and the uncomfortable seating on the bleachers. Elmbrook was air conditioned and had plently of room for family and friends, plus easy access to seating. This was an issue when I graduated from there as well and I can tell you that there was no reference to religion at all and the cross in the center was not videotaped in the broadcast. I was not a member of Elmbrook at the time and I was not offended having the graduation held there. This is a group of people out to make a quick buck, when this won't even be an issue next year.

Of course they should hold the graduations at Elmbrook Church. A tiny, insane minority with an anti-Christian attitude should never be allowed to tyrannize the majority. Would they do the same if the graduations were held in a mosque?

We attended our son's graduation at Elmbrook. Our focus was on him and his fellow graduates and their accomplishments. The building just kept us dry and comfortable. I feel bad for the children of the parents who have made this an issue. Obviously, their own childrens' graduations were less important than the "cause".

Use the building. It doesn't sound like anybody is trying to convert the students. They are just holding their secular graduation there. A couple other comments: 1. It's freedom OF religion, not freedom FROM religion. 2. Atheism is considered a religion by the government. So stop forcing it on those who have other beliefs.

Those clowns are so afraid that someone might "bump into God". They don't really care about the constitutionality (NOT) of the issue but rather prefer to force their religion of Godlessness on America. If the Elm Brook church is volunteering their facility to save the town some cash, don't let Reverend (?) Barry Lynn and his lynch men spoil the party.

Umm. . .No. They live in a metropolitan area and there are no other places suitable to hold a high school graduation?

The fundamental thing about constitutional rights must be that such rights are not subject to majoritarian opinion. Separation of church and state must be respected whether a majority of bloggers like it or not.

Both my kids graduated from Br Central and had graduation at Elmbrook Church. It was just a facility that had enough room to hold grandparents, etc. in a very comfortable air conditioned room. It was a graduation ceremony that was easy to get to, big enough and weather wasn't an issue as other schools have to deal with. The school board has 60 days to reply to the lawsuit pushing it past graduation so it won't matter this year anyway...

Both my kids graduated from Br Central and had graduation at Elmbrook Church. It was just a facility that had enough room to hold grandparents, etc. in a very comfortable air conditioned room. It was a graduation ceremony that was easy to get to, big enough and weather wasn't an issue as other schools have to deal with. The school board has 60 days to reply to the lawsuit pushing it past graduation so it won't matter this year anyway...

The ceremonies should go on as scheduled. If the parents and students of the high schools dont have an issue then no one else has the right to make it an issue. Elmbrook is used for many non religous activities.

This argument is idiotic. A true athiest would never feel threatened by being in a church since he does not believe in God...I would compare it to a person being threatened by being in the Bradly Center for UWM's graduation because they are sitting under a giant scoreboard and they really hate sports. My guess is that these people really do have an inkling that God exists and just are too stubburn to admit it. And I also agree that the cowardly families who are participating in this lawsuit should be named.

Holding graduation ceremonies in a church is no problem. The first amendment says nothing about "separation of church and state" as many confused people say. What the first amendment does say is Congress shall not establish... Congress shall not infringe... It says nothing about not being able to hold public events in a church building. It is only people who hate God and our savior Jesus Christ that want to continue in confusion and force their confusion on the rest of us.

Hold it in the church. Hold it wherever you want, as long as it will comfortably hold the number of students and family required. This nation has become ridiculous with the way everything has to be "PC". Lets not forget the principles this nation was founded on. Are they going to be holding a sermon or serving communion during the graduation? No. Nobody is asking the students to show up and pray the rosary or drink the blood of Christ. These petty lawsuits are really getting annoying. Find something else to do with yourselves, something constructive.

These churches should probably take down their crosses on the outside of the structures too so nobody driving by gets offended... Everyone involved in this lawsuit is reading WAY too much into the actual magnitude of the issues here.

It's not the building that makes it "religious", it's the people who come and go. I'm against just going to bars and hanging out on a Friday night, but if the school chose to rent a large hall in the bar for graduation, I certainly wouldn't think twice about going. I'd be there for my child. Aren't there more important things to be spending our time and money on? How about feeding and clothing those who do not have. How about helping those who have lost their jobs due to the economy? I say to the group..."GET A LIFE"!

How many would object if the graduation was being held at a Jehovah's Witness Hall? or Islamic Temple? or Mormon Tabernacle? A place of worship is dedicated for the sole purpose of providing a place for those of that religion to worship. If the the Elmbrook Church or any church is in the business of renting out its property for anthing other than worship then they should lose their tax exempt status and start paying property and income taxes. Forcing anyone to attend a place of worship to graduate from high school is a violation of an individuals first amendment rights. The will of the many should not dictate that of the few.

This is a graduation ceremony and the Elmbrook Church should be viewed as a "building". "Americans United for Separation of Church and State" please stop wasting vaulable time and money. To the previous comments of "Why should Muslim or Jewish or Hindu or Athiest kids be forced to attend this event" ~ I have friends that are Muslim, Jewish and Hindu who have no problem attending events in a church. I would have no problem attending a graduation ceremony in a Mosque or Synagogue either. But I believe the "Americans United for Separation of Church and State" again would have the same problem. It's not a religious event and no one is promoting religion. They're simply trying to have a high school graduation ceremony. Quit making this non-issue an issue!

okay, seperate church and state right? Then why do we give the kids a week to 10 days for "Easter" vacation...legally that is a RELIGIOUS celebration. if you can't use that church and I know they cover up all religious stuff, then quit the easter time off!

As a 1982 graduate of BCHS, I find this lawsuit ridiculous. There is no mention of a prayer service, which we had during our ceremony, nor any religious affiliation. This is a building. Any student not comfortable in a 'building' doesn't need to participate in the ceremony; he/she will still 'graduate'. The 'building' is air conditioned and large enough for students to invite parents, siblings and grandparents which the schools cannot accommodate. This is not forcing religion on anyone!

Of course not! Religion is a crutch for the weak minded. State and religion should always be strictly separate. Keep religious superstition out of educational functions.

This is ridiculous. IT'S A BUILDING. Get over yourself. Or move it to a smaller venue and tell the whiner he can't come b/c there is not enough space. I am so tired of people being offended by religion. I am not offended by his lack of religion, why should he be offended by someone's desire to have religion - or to hold a non-secular ceremony in a building where religious events take place? It's not like they're are all of a sudden break out into worship and brainwash him. Uggg. So tired of this.

YES they should hold the ceremonies at Elmbrook. If the largest available place was a Mosque, Synagoge, Legion Post, I don't care, EVERY family member who wants to attend should be able to, and the Gyms do not hold enough people to allow it. So, at the risk of everyone being rained on (it's Wisconsin afterall) or it being 100 degrees outside and having someone have heatstroke, they decided to move it to an air conditioned very lerge venue. The cross is covered, basically this amounts to a convention hall with stadium seating. But for one person, this makes sense to all other parents? Ridiculous and a waste of taxpayer money, but for the principle of beating these irresponsible people.

Jane | Cudahy Apr 23, 2009 12:03 AM No student should be forced to graduate in this mega-church. The message it sends is government and the church are all part of the same thing. What if this place was a Muslim mosque or Hebrew Temple? Keep religion out of school and schools out of religion. There are no "principles" up for debate, the law bans this kind of thing and if you don't like the Constitution, then you really don't believe in America. Today a church, tomorrow a mosque. Think before speaking. Jane, Have you ever read the Constitution? I think you might find God if you did..

To "Reverend" Barry Lynn and the folks at AUSCS -- Get a life!

Interesting that, once again, the decision to hold the graduation in a church is "unfair to non-Christian community members". Why is it "unfair"? Can't a non-religious event be held in a church?

The people behind this suit are morons. This is a building. They'e dragging in a whole different agenda and ruining the prospect of graduation for this year's seniors. The kids of these parents should be handed their diplomas at school and told to stay home, if it's so abhorent for them to step foot in a church.

Focus should be on facilities available. Have protestors suggested better facilities? Or are they simply afraid of the cross displayed at Elmbrook Church?

Unreal. Keep it at the Elmbrook facility. It is a better option for all the people involved. Think of the elderly who come to see their grandchildren and don't need to be in a hot gym with their heart conditions...the disabled, who can barely get around in a crowded gym, and in the gym bathrooms, there are no changing tables for infants and Elmbrook also has nice bathrooms for nursing mothers. These idiots will eventually rot in hell...how incredibly stupid to make this an issue!!!

Unreal. Keep it at the Elmbrook facility. It is a better option for all the people involved. Think of the elderly who come to see their grandchildren and don't need to be in a hot gym with their heart conditions...the disabled, who can barely get around in a crowded gym, and in the gym bathrooms, there are no changing tables for infants and Elmbrook also has nice bathrooms for nursing mothers. These idiots will eventually rot in hell...how incredibly stupid to make this an issue!!!

Apologies, but my first reaction was that those who filed this suit are being asses simply because they can and want to raise a stink. The suit should be thrown out on the grounds of gross stupidity and a complete and a complete and total lack of understanding of our nations constitution.

What a bunch of bullies! I hope they don't celebrate Christmas in any way or any other Religious Holiday! These troublemaker groups need to get a life!

To Patti in Kenosha - Speaking of the will of many - are you not familiar with the concept of democracy?

Brookfield should go forth with their plans. As a tax payer I would be more than willing to use tax money to fight this stupid law suit. In the case the insurance company would be the one fighting and would shoulder the cost.

Absolutely Not! It is a graduation ceremony not a church service.

Please do your part to stop the alarming and growing trend of our nation becoming pagan. Stay the course decision makers.

I'm getting sick and tired of this rule by the minority. If someone is offended, tell lthem to shut up, they can stay home and not attend the graduation and then get their diploma in the mail. Then the rest of us who are sane can live in peace. Also, why is the coward hiding ... if you're so proud of your cause, step forward and receive your just recognition.

Please do your part to stop the alarming and growing trend of our nation becoming pagan. Stay the course decision makers.

My child had her graduation at Elmbrook Church and it was not offensive to me or anyone else in my family. This is absurd.

If the President of the United States can speak at Notre Dame ,Elmbrook can hold graduation at Elmbrook church.

NO! i don't think anyone at the ceremony even realizes they are in a church setting or building.The rather simple architecture and non-ornateness of the building is completely overshadowed by the hoopla and excitement of graduation. There is never any mention of anything remotely religious in the graduation ceremony. Having been involved in both of my childrens' graduation ceremonies there I was almost surprised by how very few rules or decorum limitations, if any, were imposed by the church itself. It did what churches are supposed to do,simply help anyone who needs help. In this case the school district needed a place where elderly grandparents could actually see their grandchildren graduate, families could sit together and people weren't passing out from heat exhaustion and the church provided such for the community. Has anyone ever tried to get any elderly grandparent,perhaps with a cane or walker, into the bleacher seats? Disabled floor seating in a gym splits up the families and shouldn't graduation be about families and being together? In past years in the gym the weather has been so oppressive that all anyone wanted to do was get the ceremony over and get out of there. That's hardly what anyone would want for their graduation. In the end, a building is JUST A BUILDING! It's only bricks & mortar, it is what each group does inside the building that makes it count for what it is and that can be so many different things. I feel this group could be putting their time, effort and money to much better use than opposing a graduation that allows everyone to be together and enjoy what should be a very happy ceremony. No one is really hurt or damaged by the building in which a graduation takes place. Whatever happeded to co-operaton? In 2005 someone suggested that those opposed to the ceremony at Elmbrrook Church have their own ceremony by themselves in the gym. I say, go ahead, enjoy, but just think of what you are doing to your children.

Have the ceremony at Elmbrook!

If this group is so powerful and influential, why does the president of the separated united states place his hand on a BIBLE when accepting the office??? Not to mention the congress in our seperated united states begins each of their sessions with an opening prayer!! A practice upheld by the Supreme Court (of our separated united states) offering: "The Supreme Court ruled on this issue in Marsh v. Chambers[1] in 1983, finding that the opening prayer is not an "establishment of religion" prohibited by the 1st amendment, but merely "a tolerable acknowledgment of beliefs widely held among the people of this country."

If they were mailing diplomas someone would want theirs delivered by U.P.S.

Yes, keep government out of religon, not religon out of government and these non believers of the Lord force their religon of mother earth with green, green, and earth day. I'm just tired of any government telling us how to live and taxing me for it!!!!!

For all those people who are claiming their rights are being trampled upon, answer this question: If the building in question were an abortion clinic that performed hundreds or thousands of abortions per year, and they were willing to clear out all their equipment for the day and donate the buildings use for this graduation, would you then have the same response? I'll bet my life you wouldn't. Identical buildings, different purposes, none of you would be for holding graduation there. Hypocrites.

I am a 1974 graduate of Custer High School in Milwaukee. Our graduation ceremony, like most high schools at the time, was held in our football stadium. Outdoors. Yes, there may be the threat of rain, and yes, some classes had to move their ceremony indoors. But, that is what can happen when the weather can be a part of the equation. Both Brookfield High Schools have stadiums, and both have gyms. Make use of them, and stop paying rent to the church which, as evidenced in Sunday's paper, does NOT need the money. Sure, some family members may have to be excluded from the ceremony (if it is moved indoors), but until your child's name is called, it's all just pomp and circumstance.

As the saying goes somewhat, "The last time we didn't have separation of church and state they burned people at the stake." Absolutely we need to be very careful that poliitics and religion and that government and religion and education and religion be kept clearly separate. These boundaries are vital in a democracy. Also, having such a state public event in a religious building of any particular faith or demonination has overtones of partiality toward that faith. I am surprised and disappointed that Elmbrook would even consider such a move. Better to hold the graduation ceremonies outside if the community of Elmbrook can't afford other indoor facilities.

This does not need a lawsuit. They have the option to not attend if it offends them. Enough of the majority having to suffer and pay for a few.

Have a special ceremony on the football field for those objecting to the church venue. Then the hundreds of graduates who recognize that this church is just a nice place for a large event can have their ceremony. Many comments are from people who continue to buy into this "Constitutional" prohibition issue. Get educated about what our founding documents really say and mean. Many must have cut their history classes. And no one is "forcing" any one to do anything. You'll get your diploma whether you attend or not.

They've been doing it this way for a long time, now... no one has cared before. They've already said that they don't do any churchy stuff during the services, that's just where they hold the ceremony. Why is some group that has NOTHING to do with it even getting involved? These groups have gone too far. If no one has has a problem with it, and continues to not have a problem with it, then what is the problem here?!

That building is probably the least "preachy" church in the area. It wouldn't be hard to make it a nuetral setting.

The school is not conducting a religious ceremony at the church. This is NOT a violation of the 'separation' clause. This is an excuse for a narrow minded, single issue pressure group to attempt to intimidate average citizens with the threat of a lawsuit. As a retired teacher I believe in separation of church and state. This clause was added to insure there would be no 'Church of America' forced upon all citizens by an over-powerful government. Holding non-religious activities in a large community church, for the benefit and comfort of the public and students attending is valid. I hope these single minded 'Athestic Terrorists' do not succeed with their scare and intimidation tactics in Brookfield...(as they did in New Berlin).

I strongly hope that Superintendant Gibson keeps our graduation ceremony at Elmbrook Church. Our daughter is in the Central class of 2009 and we are looking forward to having our family attend this important event in a comfortable setting. There is clearly no law or wording in the constitution that prohibits this. A graduation is not religious in any way and sitting in a church does not at all constitute forcing religion on anyone. Elmbrook is renting an appropriate space for this large event, that is all. How silly that some outside group can even try to say that walking into and sitting in a church can cause mentral distress or harm. How sad that the "un-named" families from Elmbrook would participate in this lawsuit that will waste precious district funds. I would be happy to attend my daughter's graduation in June in any spacious and air conditioned setting and am happy to go to Elmbrook church. I want this ceremony to be held at Elmbrook church as scheduled. We can all believe what we beleive no matter what building we are sitting in and this graduation in no way forces religion on anyone nor does it cause any damage that is stated in the suit. As the parent of two Brookfield Central students, one who will graduate this June, I hope that our superintendant and school board stick to their principals and original plan to hold our graduation at Elmbrook Church. Do not let a group from outside our community and a very, very few people from Brookfield change this for the thousands of us who will be there. I just think this whole lawsuit is absurd and has absolutely no merit.

My daughter's best friend is Native (her preferred term), Oneida specifically. I cannot fathom asking her to step foot inside a Christian church for ANY reason. For those who didn't pay attention in history: Native children throughout this country were stolen from their reservation-bound parents by Christian missionaries and forced to adopt "civilized" ways, leading to the decimation of the myriad Native cultures. This young lady has already refused to say the pledge to the U.S. flag in school - her right, as a citizen of the Oneida nation - despite peer pressure. I can't imagine she would have wanted her high school graduation, a right of passage she earned, held at a Christian church. I guess it's a good thing she didn't go to school in Brookfield. Conversations like this one make me glad my children attend Milwaukee Public Schools. Yes, I said it.

Graduation day is supposed to be a special event for the students acknowledging the many years of hard work and the honor of walking across a stage to get their diploma with their classmates/friends. When the facilities at the school are not large enough to accomodate everyone we find another place, close to the original facility. I can't believe that some idiots take this way beyond what the day is meant to be, and now lawsuits!!! How about if you just embarrass your own child and not let them attend a CEREMONY OF CELEBRATION and let the other students and the teachers that have given our children a great education a very important day in THEIR life. Why do these people have to make it something it's not. Nobody is praying, nobody is asking you for money. Stick to your guns. Please don't make a special occasion be ruined by yet another ridiculous situation just trying to get their name in the paper.

Why are people outraged at the advocacy group filing the lawsuit? The anger should be directed at the shortsighted idiots who booked and approved the ceremony at the church in the first place. They are the waste of your tax dollars.

If the school, community, students, parents are fine with it, why does a third party feel it necessary to stop it for one year? Spend the money somewhere where there actually IS no separation between church and state. Good for you, Elmbrook School District. May common sense prevail.

This is ridiculous. Hold it there! If a student or parent don't want to attend...they can stay home. If anyone has ever been to Elmbrook they'd realize this hardly looks like a church as most of us envision a church and even if it did, so what. Stay home if you don't like it...you'll still get your diploma.

As a community full of crazy christians, I'm kind of glad the lawsuit was brought on - to bring attention to the subject. However if the ceremony is purely secular, I understand the practical implications of holding at Elmbrook Church, and the plaintiff(s) should probably lose.

Perhaps the fascist AUSCS should build Elmbrook a large enough auditorium so they don't have to use a church. Obviously, this group has failed to understand the separation doctrine - last I checked, Elmbrook wasn't trying to force religion on anyone. Unfair is the waste of taxpayer dollars that this frivolous lawsuit brings.

Several people have mentioned that the people that have a problem should not attend. I think that is a valid option. I do not see anywhere written that the graduation ceremony is required to get their degree. They can create a nice ceremony in their back yard or whatever venue they choose and take all the pictures they want. Again, the government does not have to remain separate, just not chose one religion over another or try to stop one. Have the location put out to a bid process. I would guess that venue is extreemly cheap compared to renting any other venue of that size. I am sure they could come up with a backdrop to cover any symbols that may be offensive. While they are at it they should make sure none of the students wear any offensive political or religious jewelry.

It's not appropriate and as many readers pointed out the outrage from the Christians if graduation was being held at a Muslim Mosque or Hebrew Temple. The district has a long term agreement with the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center where it pays six figure contributions to the operating costs yearly and receives a set number of events which from my understanding have never been fully utilized. Why is not being held there? While its a pity the school will have to waste valuable funds on this lawsuit its equally bad that the School District put the graduating seniors and their families in a position of graduating under a cross.

For those advocating the separation of church and state in this place where a graduation will be held, I ask this question..What's in your wallet? Every coin and paper currency the US mints has the words "In GOD we trust" printed on them. Do we have to remint our currency so not to offend anyone? What agnostics or atheists are so offended by those words that they don't spend US dollars? The graduation is not a religious even, and having it held in a church in nearby proximity to the district,that comfortably holds the proud family and friends of public school graduates SHOULD not be an issue.

Schools that use Elmbrook church for graduations are doing so in an effort to accommodate families of the graduates. There is no religious agenda in doing so. The group that advocates the separation of church and state is only promoting a negative impression of their efforts by limiting the number of family members who are able to attend this important event. When I graduated from high school, we were only allowed to have two guests attend the ceremony. I wasn't able to invite siblings, aunts, uncles or grandparents to share this special event with me. Although the facility hosting our graduation was very nice, I would have preferred to have been able to invite more loved ones to the occasion.

There is nothing wrong with using a Church for public non religious activities .

To all of those saying they should find another site and that plenty are available, name one. I can't think of any other places in Brookfield off the top of my head that would hold 3000 people in air conditioned comfort. Enlighten us.

Ridiculous. They are renting it. I keep reading and hearing people say that those opposed are 'uncomfortable' with the setting. C'mon, really? Is it that bad. I go to plenty of weddings and am not religious at all (zilch). I sit, watch and move on. No one is forcing me to pray, stand, sit, stand, sit, stand, sit. If you can't handle being in a building where people worship then it sounds like you have other issues regarding your 'sensitivity'. A nation of offended wimps.

I agree with Wk in Oak Creek! Get over it,it's a graduation ceremony not a church service. Think of something better to do with all of your pent up energy and money that will be wasted with this ridiculous law suit. Help people who really need the help and money and stop embarrassing your children and ruining a once in a life time moment!

As long as the graduation program is exactly the same as it would be if it were held on school grounds have it at Elmbrook Church. If the attendees were to be asked for donations to the church, engage in any praryer, then of course this would not be the proper facility for the graduation. I'm tired of the silent majority having to bend to the demands of the outspoken groups. Let the ceremony be held where scheduled. There are greater issues out there to be concerned with - bring those to the forefront.

Hold the grad in the gym. I graduated in 89 and i find this ridiculous. Fack the church> How much is this costing? Leave it in the Gym, easy, plenty of room. The superintendent should be fired.

Big deal...hold the ceremonies at the Marcus Center downtown if people are that offended.

Yes, who cares where the event is being given, the event is about education and graduating not religion. What on earth is the matter with society? Washington DC keep your nose out of it. Why not take a vote on where it should be held?

I graduated from Brookfield Central and was forced to be in a hot, muggy, and very uncomfortable gym. My brother graduated 2 years later, and it was at Elmbrook Church. What a difference!! Some people need to stop being offended by every little thing. We live in a society where people have such thin skin and get offended so easily. Certain people are always preaching tolerance and complassion, yet they're so unwilling to bend and see things from a view of practicality. Why make hundreds of people suffer in stiffiling conditions all because maybe one person me be offended? I'm offended that we're all being forced to bend to the fringe, outside the norm nuts who want to force us into an uber steril enviroment. If you don't want your picture taken underneath a cross then GO OUT SIDE and stand next to a tree. Don't make everyone suffer just because you don't agree. What happened to majority rules. Why are we letting a group from Washington DC deccide what is right for our community? They don't even live here!!

Yes, it should be moved. Read any Supreme Court ruling on seperation of church and state regarding state run education. Public education = public forum, not christian supported arenas, such as Elmbrook.

The plantiff seems to think that Elmbrook church is a sacred space, a position that the church itself does not hold. Why should the plantiff get to impose his/her understanding of sacred space on everyone else? What makes holding an event at a church auditorium any different from holding an event at a high school gymnasium in which a church meets? The beliefs of those who own it? The way it is normally used? What if a conference room that was used every sunday for a Christian worship service was held at Mormon owned Marriot? Would it be illegitimate to have a public event there? Or must the plantiff and those who agree bring in some notion of sacred space? If so, then they should have to show why their idea of sacred space (which is the reason for their discomfort) isn't itself a religious idea that they are imposing on everyone else.

How much money is the church getting for the use of their building? I kinda doubt they are doing this out of the goodness of their hearts!

Hold it at the church and start the ceremony with the Our Father. Let the non beleivers leave!!!

So the attorney's statement this morning on 620TMJ was that there would be Hymnals in the pews and a big cross hanging from the ceiling. OK, have the church take the Hymnals out the pews and put a cloth cover over the cross. Now it's just a building to hold the ceremonies. It's not as if the graduation ceremony is going to break out in a sermon.

It's a building. I'm a Christian. Would I object to having graduation held in a mosque or a temple? No. I don't think holding the ceremony in a church or other place of worship is unfair. You could hold at Miller Park, but then somebody would object that doing so sends a message to kids that steroid use is ok.

I am a Brookfield tax payer, a church is just a building. There is not any plan for any religious content in the ceremony. I think that people who do not live in or pay taxes in Brookfield should not any say in what happens in Brookfield!

I congratulate Matt Gibson and the school board for their stance to continue to the graduation at Elmbrook Church. My daughter graduated last year and it was a wonderful event, the building was beautiful and comfortible for all. I find the comments that are negative to be pathetic and short sighted. They need to get a life, there was no other feel about the ceremony that was anything but a highschool congraduation.

It is to bad that 1 or 2 people can dictate for the rest. If elmbrook caves in then I hope the weather is really hot. I then hope the people that pushed for this are very uncomfortable and maybe their families can't attend because the facility might be to small and not have air conditioning. Deal with it or get out of the country.

This is so upsetting. They are using a facility that is for size and accomidating all of us, not because it is a church. I appreciate being able to have a large number of family members being able to attend. I also appreciate not being stuffed into a small hot area with only 4 people to watch the graduate - as it was when I graduated from Brookfield East. I can not believe how crazy people are getting. We are not trying to infringe on anyone's constitutional right. We are trying to make a great graduation for the kids. Yes the kids - did we forget this day is for them. If someone is so opposed, they do not have to attend the ceremony in this fashion. I am sure the administration would accomodate another private ceremony during the school day to "present" that students diploma to them. Let us stay focused on the fact it was the use of a larger space, more comfortable for all involved. Also the district has stated that after construction there will be a different venue. I think we all need to take a break from worrying so much and drawing attention to the fact it is a church. If a student objects let us find a way to make their wishes happen in a different ceremony curtailed to meet the needs of that student.

People make a church - Not a building!!!

The size of Elmbrook is ideal for a large gathering. It is located in a nice area and can be easily accessed. If there is objection to a non denominational church building being used then try to compromise and have it be outside if the weather permits. They have plenty of parking space and have a beautiful scenic grounds to hold this on instead if one wanted. Try the view by the water as it's very relaxing with the ducks in it and the fountain flowing out as well as the trees near it. I've been to this location, it's beautiful. Why ruin it for kids with malking it an issue when they have a beautiful outdoor scenery to holld this at if the weather behaves that day or to gather outside and take photos at? It is a lovely place to plan an event and fortunate if they let you borrow it to hold this at.

Hey Chris from Milwaukee, I'm glad your kids go to MPS, all the nutcakes like you fit in there. America, Love it or Leave it!

No!

if you are an athesit, and have no belifes. Then why do you care where graduation is. How is holding something at a building an endorsement, or even imposing a religous view on any body. There is no 'seperation of church and state' in the consitution.

It is a great venue for a graduation and it is only for one more year. Let them do it.

Of course they should hold it at Elmbrook Church. Everyone states "separation of Church and state". However, anytime there is a tragedy at a school, everyone prays for the victims. Think about that and now you can make a better decision.

Jane from Cudahy, FYI, "separation of church and state" is NOT in the Constitution. Read it.

Its a buidling people. Get a grip. We don't our courts full of silly lawsuits.

As a recent graduate of Brookfield East High School, I am greatly relieved that someone has finally stood up and taken action. A church is simply not an appropriate place to hold a graduation for a public school. As a non-Christian, I was forced to choose between missing my own graduation or going to it in a place where I felt incredibly uncomfortable. The beauty of the government of the United States is that it was designed to protect the rights of the minority, and in this case, those rights are clearly being violated. I now attend college on the east coast, and when I tell people that my graduation was held in a church with a giant cross in the background, they are shocked. It's time for the Elmbrook School district to embrace secularism and find a new graduation venue.

I don't know what they're worried about. Salvation isn't something you can catch -- like a virus. You have to want it!

According to the petition time and today's date the point is really mute. I feel you can take a believer out of the building but you can't take GOD out of the believer. It's one day ppl, get over this. Are they going to next want believers and atheists to have seperate schools to not blend them in graduations later as well? lol. What a way to divide the state and church further..how ironic this is posted from this group: The case was filed by Americans United for Separation of Church and State, an advocacy group based in Washington, D.C. According to a press release from the group, the suit was filed on behalf of a graduating senior, who wishes to remain anonymous. Americans United sent a legal challenge to Elmbrook and three other districts on Feb. 11, arguing that holding a public ceremony in a religious setting is unfair to non-Christian community members. The group requested a formal response by Feb. 27. In February, Gibson said Brookfield East and Central high schools still planned to hold the graduations at the church in June.

Unless any of the members of Americans United has a child graduating in the Elmbrook School District they should MIND THEIR OWN BUSINESS! This has nothing to do with religion it's all about capacity and comfort the venue offers the graduates and their families. I'd like the plaintiff's name published also. If they have such a problem then don't attend graduation that hundreds of others with common sense will. United Americans for More Stupid Lawsuits and Wasted Taxpayer Money is what these watchdog groups should be called.

It's a hard core evangelical church. You can't get away from that by saying it's a secular ceremony. KM has a huge new air conditioned gym - maybe they can rent that. Just because they've been doing it forever doesn't make it right, and the school district should have realized they will lose a lawsuit and just moved the ceremony instead of spending scarce resources defending something clearly unconstitutional.

Hold the graduations at Elm Brook Church. This is a large building that has ample seeting for grads and their families and friends. Though some students 'thank god they are graduating" this is NOT a religious service. It is a graduation ceremony. I attended a WCTC graduation ceremony there a few years ago. No prayers or hymns, just deserving students receiving diplomas. Build a bridge and get over it !

George from Brookfield: Nutcakes? Are you saying I'm a nutcake for supporting a Native in her beliefs? You say: America, love it or leave it. Perhaps you should GIVE IT BACK. btw, we live in the U.S., which is only a small part of America. Apparently, you haven't noticed...?

Yes. It's a bigger facility and will seat more people. It will not be a church service.

After reading all the hate and vitriol expressed here toward the plaintiffs, I can understand their desire to be anonymous. Get a grip Christians - even if you are the majority, love thy neighbors, even if they are in the minority, and respect their desire not to be subjected to your version of salvation. Churches, synagogs, mosques, tabernacles, prayer lodges and wiccan temples are not appropriate settings for public school functions.

Don't given in like the spineless New Berlin school district. Are we to react to every threat received from an outside source who has their own political agenda? What has happened to common sense and values that this country was founded on? Liberalism is a mental disease.

Graduation should be held at Elmbrook Church. Again, the minority's squeaky wheel gets the grease. I am tired of this catering to a small group of people. We elect our government officials with the majority let that guide us in making this SIMPLE decision.

If the kid who is suing don't want to partake in graduation at a church - tell him/her to stay home. It should be held at the church. We have to stop buckling under all these stupid lawsuits. Because one or two don't like it - so what! The majority does!

If there are other suitable, non-religious venues in the metropolitan area that meet the requirements, why wouldn't you move it to one of those. My biggest concern is whether the church is receiving some type of financial contribution for the use of the facility. That would clearly be an issue with public money going to the religious institution. I would agree with the arguement that it is only a building if it was just a church hall or something. This is the main sanctuary of the church and they will not remove the religious artifacts for the graduation. I would think they could of found a less controversial location.

If Dr. Gibson really is a doctor then he should know that having a graduation in a church is wrong. His attitude shows his arrogance and ingnorance. If they want to take tax dollars and give them to a church in the form of rent then this profit and all pofits from the church should be taxed. Churches shouldn't be competing against the private sector. My children attend Elmbrook schools. I'm offended by this and will proudly support this lawsuit.

Why is it that we have to accomidate every religion and that no one can look at this as GRADUATION not a Religous Issue? I can remember saying the "Pledge of Allegence" in school and stating "One Nation Under God" , kids who chose not to say the pledge of allegence just remained seated and there was never an issue. Now this alliance has been able to get this removed and Now they want to be involved as to the location of a graduation people these days need to get over their issues for one day and let the graduation go on as planned!!!!! Since most religions beleive there is a higher power they just refer to it differently this does not mean anyone is being judged by what they beleive or not beleive the school district just wants everyone to be comfortable for this graduation ceremony. So let bigons be bigons and continue this religous war after graduation.

No, this year's cermonies should not be moved. Do these people never go to weddings or funerals where there are religious symbols? Can they ignore the religious beliefs for those occasions? Do they want the graduation cermony held on a football field? What if there is a car parked in the lot with a cross hanging off the mirror? Are they offended when they drive down a street and see a chruch, synagogue or mosque? This is a ridiculous lawsuit. Grow up people.

It amazes me that 9 malcontents who don't have the balls to identify themselves can disrupt what should be a joyous occasion for so many. Another classic example of political correctness run amok.

A couple posters hit it right on the mark. If the school district rented out a Mosque, then folks who see no problem using a church would sing another tune. Total hypocrisy.

If a family feels it is against their personal beliefs then let them opt out of the ceremony at Elmbrook Church and hold a ceremony at the school. Allow the families, that for space reasons, have no problem going to Elmbrook Church enjoy the day with their extended families because they can all be there! Pretty simple.

This won't be an issue once public schools are abolished.

Yes,I think the school should hold it at Elmbrook it sounds like this building meets all the needs to have a beautiful graduation ceramony.I think this advocacy group needs to stop looking for a fight. I also think if the athiest people are so afraid of this building they are not truley athiest ,if they were, the religious symbols would'nt mean anything to them and they would look at this building as just a building. Elmbrook is not shoveing their beliefs onto you by haveing the ceramony there I resent you shoveing your beliefs down my throat by bullying me with a law suite. What a waste of time and money!

I hope it rains and the New Berlin School district is out of luck!!!!! I have never heard of anything so ridiculous as this lawsuit!

The schools should hold their graduation wherever they darn please. I'm sick of these overblown advocacy groups. Unless they are watching over helpless children or animals I have no use for them.

As a student at a Brookfield high school, I am incredibly angry that this lawsuit is even taking place. The anonymous plaintiffs and the AUSCS apparently have no regard for the thousands of district students who will be deprived of funds intended to further their education, not to defend the will of the majority against that of a few who cannot see past their own intolerances. Maybe the plaintiffs would like to explain to the students using decades-old history books why they cannot get new ones due to lack of district funding.

As a current East student, I can tell you that around 90% of the entire school population is Catholic or another religion based off of it. And most likely around half of those students worship at Elmbrook Church. Just because a few Atheists feel uncomfortable with services being held in a facility which can hold more people than both East's and Central's gyms, with complete air conditioning, and that is accessible to the disabled, shouldn't mean that graduation should be moved. Plus, the media has failed to mention that this will probably be the last year graduation will held in the church, since the field houses are expected to hold them next year. So one more graduation at the church? How much does that hurt?

An earlier poster says: The will of the many should not dictate that of the few. And, the wil of a FEW should not dictate that of the many. When will people stop letting a few who think their pseudo rights mean more than anyone else's get away with this. If I was a parent at the school, I would publicly voice my support of any lawsuit defense and would also contribute to the fund. Also, for those of you who have not been in Elmbrook, the space they are talking about using is called the ampitheatre. It has no kneelers, it has very little in the way of any church symbols at all. It's a very minimalist, modernist environment that happens to have elevators, disabled parking and seating, air, and plenty of room and good acoustics. If converting someone to Christianity was as easy as getting them to sit in the same room as a cross, I believe there would be many more Christians.

This is so ridiculous. Granduation could be in a mosque, temple or church and no one should complain. There is no worship service involved. Elmbrook church is just a building as are mosques and temples. The worship service is what makes it religious. Don't let a couple of complainers spoil this event for hundreds.

Why do we let 1 or 2 people ruin it for everyone else? Is this still a democracy? Take a vote among the people involved. Why let a group of people who are not even from our area tell us what to do? If a member of Americans United is invited to a best friend's wedding at a church, do they not go because they are not of that religion and hurt their best friend? There are plenty of us who are sick and tired of having self-interest groups tell the rest of us what we should or shouldn't do! I'm very disappointed that New Berlin has caved in to this group - I hope the rest of the schools stick to their plans. I have sat outside in the sun on a football field and have been squeezed into an auditorium when it rains to watch graduations and it wasn't fun! If Elmbrook Church is gracious enough to let our local schools use their building where everyone would be comfortable and enjoy the festivities, we should thank them for it. Americans United are just one more group who are ruining it for the rest of us! And, as has been said before, if you don't like it here, LEAVE!!!!

Elmbrook Church does NOT charge schools to use their facilities. Maybe the families objecting should be willing to pay for the rental of a facility. And iif there is a mosque big enough, with free parking and air conditioning within the Elmbrook district, I would nopt be offended in anyway.

although I am a devout Christian, this graduation should not be held a Elmbrook Christian Church where a cross overlooks the ceremonies. It is highly offensive to any other believers who may be Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Aethist, or other faith. No Christian would wish to receive his or her diplomasin similar facilities displaying a major symbol of non-Christianity. Ther hardly seems to be any question as to the negative impact this would have on non-Christians.

In response to Ralph | Brookfield Apr 23, 2009 7:30 AM "I don't think some of the people who are posting here understand that the church never removes anything that it normally has in place. Last June I checked and all the posters, bibles, banners, hymnals, crosses, etc. were in place. It's a church. Anyone reading this who is in one of the school systems that is still planning on using the church for commencement should contact Americans United as soon as possible." I was also at the graduation last June. I didn't "check" all the posters, bibles, etc that were in the church. I was there for the graduation ceremony!! I was involved with my child and her peers and all the pride and joy of the day. I did not walk around to "check out" the church facilities. My family, which included 8 individuals, some of whom are elderly, were able to enjoy THE CEREMONY. We were seated in comfortable seats, in air conditioning, with exceptional viewing on big screens! Not to mention the parking facilities are excellent and it is conveniently located in central Brookfield. I do not think it is possible to find another venue at this late date for this year's graduation ceremony. Now our school district has to spend money and resources fighting a lawsuit brought by a group from Washington DC. Sad.

Since the vast majority of students have voted in years past to have their graduations at Elmbrook Church, they should be allowed to do so. The facility is large enough to accommodate students' families and friends in comfort, regardless of weather conditions. There is plenty of parking. The fact that there is nothing "religious" involved in the graduation ceremonies makes their location irrelevant.

Tough call for any school district not wanting to face the potential expense of a lawsuit. The real offensive aspect of this tiresome argument is that the federal judiciary apparently lacks the backbone to issue rulings based on the true intent of the constitution and send this group and others like it packing. The language 'separation of church and state' exists nowhere in the constitution. What the establishment clause states is that Congress (IE: The federal govt) can make no law respecting the estblishment of religion. This prevents the US from becoming like England or Iran with an official state sanctioned/endorsed religion. There is no conceivable way that any school district or local unit of government can establish a religion by renting a building for an event or hanging a depiction of the ten commandments on a courtroom wall. If someone is truly offended by the presence of a wooden cross while they are sitting on an upholstered seat in a climate controlled theater-like building for their childs graduation, they need to weigh that against the joy they will feel sitting outside on the hard bleacher seats of the school football field enjoying the sun/rain/heat/cold/wind. The court should not be in the business of ruling on 'feelings'. If Elmbrook Church wants to make the marketing decision to remove or cover the large cross to allow for the hanging of school banners or make other accomodations to groups renting their facility, that should be their decision alone.

After comparing my own graduation in 1976 in the BEHS gym to my daughters BEHS graduation at Elmbrook Church, I've experienced both graduation settings. From personal experience, hold the graduations at Elmbrook Church. What is comfort? When does the "moral" comfort of a few outweigh the physical comfort of the pleasing setting Elmbrook Church offers the community. Why don't the famiilies/individuals come forwad and make themselves known to the community? Thank you Elmbrook Church for your tolerance.

Elmbrook church is the largest affordable indoor facility prepared for large groups in the vicinity; if the AUSCS is so concerned about the issue, why don't they provide the defending party with both an alternative location, as well as the funding to afford the (most likely higher) rental fee? And so the plaintiff(s) requested to keep their names hidden; had they not, imagine the consequences, not only for the parents, but for the students listed under the suit.

Our early American settlers greatly honored their churches, and biblical quotes are carved into many monuments out in public display. Recently some radicals think the world owes them homage and their every desires should be the norm or they will be offended. Me thinks the majority sets the rules. That cross on the wall isn't going to grab anyone unless they honor and respect it.

Yes they should. This whole business has gone to far!!! People don't have the right to not be offended. Especially if everyone has the right to say what they want! Enough is Enough!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I graduated from Brookfield East last year, and as a non-Christian, getting my diploma under a giant cross was a bit unnerving. I'm glad to see students this year are doing what I was too lazy to do last year. It should definitely be moved.

The backward thinking evident in many of these posts and the threats against the plaintiffs should instruct rational people who stop here why it is essential to keep the state completely separate from religion. Many religious people are hopelessly brainwashed--blinded by the "light." Don't get between them and their drug of belief. It's sad. I understand addiction as an ex-smoker. I was a smokers rights activist, even. But now that I've been off for more than five years I can clearly see what a terrible addiction it was. Religion is the same. Forcing non-Christians to go to a church or miss a one-in-a-lifetime event is rude and unconstitutional. If you are in one of the districts--Brookfield included--where the administration is forcing citizens to attend the church, please contact Americans United as soon as possible.

There sure are a lot of people with too much time on their hands who are offended by every little thing.

Here's another splinter group forcing taxpayers to pay to defend an inane lawsuit. I've been to a graduation at Elmbrook Church - it was entirely secular. Using a building is not blending Church and State - goodness people - get a life and stop wasting taxpayer dollars!

Have the graduation at Elmbrook. If some people don't want to go there let they stay home with their children. They are only using the building. I belong to a church locally that has the building used for other purposes with no problem.

Absolutely NOT!!! Groups such as Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Atheist group based in Madison, aided by activist judges, continue to erode our religious freedom, by distorting the meaning of the 2nd amendment. There is NO Constitutional prohibition against public schools holding graduation ceremonies, or any other events in buildings owned by religious institutions. Americans United for Separation of Church and State, the Freedom from Religion organization, and leftist judges should cease and desist from "prohibiting the free exercise thereof" (Read the first Amendment).

You Rock Jan in New Berlin! How come it is ok for gay people to get married and not ok for Schools to hold graduations at a church. Gee, why can't I play this church card when the Jehovah Witnesses bother me at my door step? Yikes!

As a non-Christian, I would not feel comfortable attending a graduation ceremony in a building surrounded by Christian icons and would likely choose to not attend. While I doubt that many students would find themselves in this uncomfortable situation, why should any?

So what I am gathering from the gist of these comments is that "the majority" of Elmbrook families will sacrifice "the minority" for their own personal comfort. Sitting for three hours in a/c is more important than ensuring all your children's fellow graduates feel welcome at their own graduation ceremony? Shame on you.

Unbelievable .... The plaintiffs don't have the courage to put their names in the lawsuit. An easy solution is to have the ceremony simulcast. The church facilities can support the simulcast on the big screen. Those that dont want to go to the church can go to the school and sit in the hot gym for the ceremony, that way people can choose rather than wasting resources for a warrantless lawsuit.

Chris In Milwaukee - You're missing the point entirely. And twisting the logic to boot.

It is highly inappropriate to conduct a non-sectatarian state high school graduation in a sectarian venue. This is more than symbolically disturbing, indeed it is an offense to the secular, non-denominational philosophy upon which this republic was founded.l

Not only is the use of churches for civic events permissible under the constitution, it has strong historical roots in America. Despite the John and Jane Doe's appearing as plaintiffs in the suit, this matter has been instigated by a bunch of outside trouble makers who have no stake in our community and no voice in our decisions. If atheists don't like graduation in a church, take their diplomas over to the nearest bar and graduate them there! Let's not allow them to decide where or when we graduate our kids. Happy graduation day to the classes of 2009!

Imagine if a school decided to hold their graduation ceremony in their gym but decided to erect a large Cross on the wall behind the speaker's platform. In this case, I think we'd agree that this was a deliberate act by the school officials that would no doubt be an Establishment Clause violation. Yet when the school officials deliberately choose to move the ceremony to a church with a large Cross at the front of the room, you want to say it's not a violation. I think the school officials are responsible for making the choice either way. And what if a school actually decided to hold graduation in the Devil's Workshop? I can imagine other situations where school officials should be just as sensitive to places that might violate their other policies. They wouldn't hold it in a hall with a 30-foot tobacco or alcohol advertisement, or in a political hall with a 30-foot Obama poster on the wall. They wouldn't hold it in a theater at a casino if we all had to walk past the gambling. They wouldn't hold it in a place with 30-foot Satanic symbols on the walls, would they? They wouldn't hold it in the Freethought Hall if it had a 30-foot "There is no God" banner, would they?

If ANY group of religious zealots hand out materials at a public graduation because it's "their" building, or fail to temporarily removed their sects artifacts from plain site for the public school's graduation ceremony----I think parents/students who are offended have a right to sue for a change of venue........freedom of shoving religion down your neighbors throat seems to have become more American than our other freedoms.

Good to see a "teacher" (Fed Up??) ... who believes in the mythical separation of church and state -- Good Lord! no wonder some of these kids need to be taught at home! Read the actual Constitution and get back to me. As for wanting a brick and mortar building so grandma and grandpa can sit in a comfy seat and actually HEAR what's going on. I don't care if we're holding it in a mosque, a walmart or a synagogue. I'm there for my kid's graduation. Again. Can we stop pandering to the few who don't even know what our Constitution SAYS??? ARGHH.

As a child I was subjected in public school to prayers and other demonstrations which were of the majority religion. It was a very public statement that I was not part of the majority, therefore different. The laws drawing a line between religion and state are meant to protect the minority from the majority's lack of mindfulness that not everyone is the same. The comment that "ONE student objects and hundreds of students... must knuckle under" shows a lack of respect and awareness that not everyone in the Elmbrook Schools is of the majority faith. It's a statement of dismissiveness and demonstrates ignorance. I've heard this is the last year the district will use an off-campus location; but even for only one student- for only one year- it's not right. A non-religious venue should be used.

I've had two kids graduate from Central. I agree. Simulcast the event. The "offended" can sit in the gym, the backers of the Constitution can sit in the church. As for Ralph in Brookfield? I think you should start smoking what you USED to smoke, Ralph, because what you're smoking now is clearly doing some damage.

Yes. Public school functions should not be held in churches or facilities of other religious organizations unless all participants agree to this arrangement. To do otherwise is to suggest that the school district endorses, supports or otherwise agrees with the teachings of that religious organization. Convenience should not be an excuse for effectively establishing Christian faith in the minds of the graduates and their guests. If one of the school principals is a member of this church, and the superintendent indicated that other venues were available, these are two more reasons not to go there.

I'm still waiting for someone to answer my earlier question. Or is it that you know your wrong? If the circumstances were exactly the same except that instead of a church, the building was an abortion clinic, would you still be in favor of having graduation there? Come on people, if your confident in your position, answer this question.

Ridiculous, this is a graduation ceremony in a building that can accomadate a large group. If you don't want to be in a church than don't attend the graduation. When are we going to stop the absurdity of this ridiculous law suits. In GOD WE TRUST needs to stay on our money, perhaps the morals of those few who don't believe will begin to change. Limited radical people who want everything done for them, what about the majority. If you don't want to believe in God leave for a country where the majority of the population believes as you do.

We do not belong to Elmbrook Church and we do not have a problem with the graduation being held there. Our children are very secure in their faith and we do not see their faith threatened or compromised in any way by attending a graduation at a Christian church. We would feel the same way if the graduation was held at a temple or a mosque. A couple of hours attending a NON-RELIGIOUS function in a religious establishment is not a threat to our faith or our religious principles. Obviously it is a threat to the plaintiff. How sad for them that they don't have that same sense of security in their own faith.

Thinker, If you know of an abortion clinic, mosque, synagogue, or church of jehova's witness that can accommodate for 3000 people (alive, grown people), is air-conditioned, wheel-chair accessible, and in close proximity to the families of graduating. Brookfield students, I am confident that the school district of Elmbrook will consider a change.

Those who are offended by references to God, please open your pockets, purses, and billfolds and send me all denominations of currency that use words or symbols that recognize a higher power.

I think that they should hold it at Marquette. Is that not seperation either? Hold a seperate ceremony for the ones that can't have a cross in their life. Tell the complainers to think of the children not themselves for once. Let it be held at the church and get on with life already.

Diane from Muskego, graduation is a major part of a teenager's life. Why should non-Christians not be a part of their commencement ceremonies just because they don't believe in the same things that others do? I find your comment "If you don't want to believe in God leave for a country where the majority of the population believes as you do." very unnerving. This country is known as a "melting pot" for a reason, because all are welcomed, not just those who share your world view.

OK, "Thinker" ... I'll bite. If the graduation ceremony is being held in an abortion clinic -- I'm there for a graduation ceremony. As long as nobody is performing an abortion on stage and nobody is telling me to HAVE an abortion and nobody is PERFORMING and abortion on my graduate and I can sit comfortably in air conditioning and hear the speeches and SEE my graduate and I can park my car in a ginormous parking lot that goes on for miles and the situation is just ideal (like it IS, hello???) ... I'M THERE. OK? There. I answered your question. Move on.

Very easy to say Mary. Would never happen in real life. But it's nice to know we are a people willing to through out the Constitution in exchange for some air conditioning and "ginormous" parking. I hope to God you're over 40 years old with that kind of mentality.

"Thinker" ... and I'm using quotation marks for a reason. It's good to know that you're so on top of things. You're right. Thankfully, there aren't too many spacious abortion clinics. And, incidentally, while you're hanging out over the weekend, why don't you take a peek at that Constitution I'm "throughing" (sic) out and find the part that says there actually IS a separation of church and state. I'm willing to pay you cash if you can produce it. I'm over 40, so I have money. Plus I'm not using too much electricity at the moment because my A/C isn't turned on yet, so I can spare the change. -- FYI, I'm willing to go to any length for #1) my comfort, and #2) to irritate you.

Once again, observe how nasty the supporters of hosting commencements at the church are in these posts and you'll instantly know why the constitution calls for a high wall between state and religion. 'Course expecting civil behavior from cultists who think "faith" is far more important than "works" is an exercise in futility. Fundamentalists have told me even Hitler might have earned a spot in heaven simply by believing before he died. No torture-execution devices at commencements; no tax dollars in support of dogma, superstition, and right-wing politics.

It's time to stand up against the ACLU who are dedicated to the overthrow of the U.S. Constitution. Read their history if you think otherwise. Holding the graduation at Elmbrook Church is not a religious event. It is merely a convenient location for a facility of adequate size. Elmbrook Church doesn't have many religious icons or crosses on display.

Then you won't mind holding the ceremony at Milwaukee's Church of Scientology next year.

The Constitution reads- “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof” {this is termed the establishment clause}. This clause has been interpreted by the Supreme Court of the United States (from here on SCOTUS) to mean a “separation of church and state”. In 1948 SCOTUS ruled in McCollum v. Board of Education that religious instruction in public schools was a violation of the establishment clause and therefore unconstitutional. In 1971 the Courts ruled that actions violate the Establishment clause if they do not have a secular purpose, if they inhibit or to advance religion or if there is excessive entanglement between government and religion {Lemon v. Kurtzman}. In 1992 they ruled in Lee v. Weisman, that it is Unconstitutional for a school district to provide any clergy to perform nondenominational prayer at elementary or secondary school graduation, because it involves government sponsorship of worship. As a member of the Brookfield community I find it irksome that the graduation location is being questioned, but the plaintiff has a legitimate case. Regardless of the convenience of Elmbrook Church, the fact remains that the Supreme Court has seen similar situations various times and always ruled against the ceremony. In Lee v. Weisman they even ruled that it was incorrect to ask students not to attend the graduation if they had concerns over the religious nature. The legitimacy of the Elmbrook Case cannot, and should not, be questioned.

I think it's crazy to hold the graduation in church. My daughter graduates in 2 more years and I hope it won't be at the church. I am an athetist, and the last thing I want to see is a picture of my daughter getting her high school diploma with a huge cross in the background. Symbolism does count. Would you like a picture of Osama Bin Laden or HIlter in the background? I would think not. It would offend you, wouldn't it? Well, the cross offends me. I don't want to see it in my daughters graduation pictures, period.

'Stick to your principles', great suggestion Bob and I think that is what the individuals who prefer to have this function at a non-religious venue are doing. As far as a teenager who is brave enough to step up and challenge this, but conceal their identity should be rightfully allowed to do so, especially when we read thru many of these posts. I strongly support the moving of the ceremonies on two fronts, I do not feel that this will end after this year with potential delays in the construction of the new venue, since delays on projects of these scale are routinely delayed and secondly, it would be extremely uncomfortable having to sit through a ceremony in a venue that is willing to take your tax dollars but is deeming your soul to be unworthy.

It's not about religion. It's not about preaching. It's not about prayer. It's just a PLace that can comfortablely hold graduation service. REALLY? Well, then let me suggest a PLACE that can also hold a the ceremony. How about renting out a large, comfortable hall, all paid for from advertisements from Planned Parenthood and Pro- Choice groups. After all, it's just a place. What's inside really doesn't count!!!

I see that in my haste I screwed up my answer this morning. My "Absolutely Not!!!" referred to the last question "Should the district move this year's ceremonies to location other than the church?" To the original question, "Should the school district hold '09 graduation in Elmbrook Church?" , my response would be "Yes!!!". Also my reference to the 2nd Amendment should have been the 1st Amendment -- It has been over-interpreted far beyond the intent of the founding fathers over the last several years.

Why not just have the parents at the school vote. I'm sure the majority would want the space and to actually be able to SEE the graduates. Majority rules. How about the people against it find a solution and come up with other sites instead of just complaining. I'm so tired of people who complain but refuse to help find a solution.

Please find a way to publish the names of the local (nine?) families who are attempting to force THEIR minority opinions on the majority ... I for one would like to attend my granddaughter's graduation at Elmbrook Church without this hassle. I already pay outrageous taxes to this District and REALLY would like to know and be able to confront these few individuals who think they should decide for all of us ...

Good comments, but a public high school should have their major events in secular locations. If the chosen location had been a mosque, do you think Brookfield folks would be pleased with the choice?

Thinker - why bring GOD into your comments? Isn't that exactly what you're trying to avoid??

Thinker, your not thinking clearly, you clearly need psychotherapy, or are you off your meds . Go Elmbrook, Nice facility for a graduation ceremony.

Shouldn't we be more worried about the drugs being found in our high schools instead of offending a couple of over-sensitive people that like to complain?

The first amendment does not say "separation of church and state." It says: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances." For a school district to borrow a church auditorium for a graduation is not a case of government establishing a religion. No one is being forced to believe anything simply by being there. The "Americans United for the Separation of Church and State" are simply a bunch of anti-religious bigots who want to use the harassment of lawsuits to remove any trace of religion from public life. They need to be fought by every means possible.

Come on. This is out of hand. Put it to a vote-let the parents decide. There is one big cross in the church-there are plenty of other places to take a picture-like off to the side. I'm so tired of people complaining about things but not helping to find a solution. Don't say 'have it somewhere else'....find somewhere else to have it and then approach the school. Seriously people.....

Separation of Chruch and State is a form of political correctness. If one searches the US Constitution, word for word, he or she will not find 'separation' or 'church' within the Constituion. It does not exist. However, the Constitution is clear on two issues regarding this issue. First, there shall be no religious test required for public office. Secondly, the Constitution strongly implies government must remain neutral on the issue. It shall make no law for or against religion. If one checks out American history, he or she will quickly realize why govenment must remain neutral. Sadly, we have groups who wish to impose their will and wishes on the majority. Perhaps it is time we all read the Constitution, chuck political correctness and stand up for our liberty. If I am incorrect in my statement about the words 'church' or 'separation' not being contained in our founding document, please correct me. Lastly, I have attended three graduations at Elmbrook. Contrary to what some say, the church had no one handing out pamplets or preaching to the masses. Given the deplorable space at MHS, I as one am most pleased to sit in Elmbrook, in comfort. And I thank Elmbrook for opening its building for graduations.

When I heard that our daughters graduation from Brookfield Central would be held at Elmbrook Church, I thought that it was an inappropriate place. Inappropriate because a public high school graduation should be held in a neutral setting with no religion involved. However, after attending the graduation in 2006, I was pleased. First of all, the area where the ceremony was held did not look like a church. i would describe the place as an auditorium. I do not remember seeing any religious statues or crosses. Here's what I liked about it, there was plenty of comfortable seating, the place wasn't too hot or too cold, they had big screen t.v.'s (we could see our daughters face while receiving her diploma) and the sound was perfect(no strain hearing someone). After graduation, there was plenty of room to gather, take pictures, talk and enjoy the moments. My husband and I were both negative on the idea originally, yet we went with the flow and were pleasantly surprised. Too often we have attended graduations and seating was tight, we couldn't hear, the lighting was bad, it was hot, uncomfortable, no parking and no place to run a video camera. The Elmbrook venue was none of that and I can say we were very surprised. My second daughter is graduating from Brookfield Central this year and we were looking forward to going to Elmbrook. I hope that does not change. I cannot imagine how attending graduation at Elmbrook could make someone uncomfortable. Ideally, public school graduations should be held at a secular place. I would say this place is pretty much that or pretty darn close. I really liked the Elmbrook venue, parking was great and it was close to our house. Dawn Hass

Wow. Organized religion seems to consistently cause problems everywhere.

NO, NO, NO. ANY school needing a place for graduation ceremonies should definitely not let this frivolous attempt to impose the will of a few people who don't even have their facts straight over the comfort,convenience and the use of the great audio-visual facilities of many hundreds of graduates and relatives and friends. Do nt cave-in to this power-grabbing group who oppose the use of Elmbrook Church. Being parents of 4 students and grandparents of 7 students , we have sweltered in hot,stuffy,uncomfortable gymnasiums where only 3 or 4 family members can be admitted. It is my opinion that banning the use of Elmbrook Church for graduation ceromonies is a violation of my own civil liberties and I would gladly contribute to the defense of the brave schools who challenge this affront to our fredoms.

The graduation should be at the school. God forbid a Brookfield soccer mom might be uncomfortable due to the heat or get her designer shoes ruined from a soggy stadium.

I'm Jewish and would never ask them to move the ceremony. Its about the graduation not the church. Make it comfortable for the grandparents and older adults that attend who are there to celebrate not learn about Jesus. People need to find more important things to sue about, not take money from the education of their children.

As a student graduating this year, I believe that this lawsuit is absurd. I know for a fact that there will be many students objecting to walk across the stage if we have to hold our graduations in our gymnasiums, which has been stated before in many posts that they are hot with uncomfortable bleachers that I know I can’t stand sitting on for less than an hour at an assembly. So if I can’t stand sitting on them for less than an hour, what makes you think my grandparents are going to want to sit on them for almost two hours. Please. Let’s be logical, Elmbrook Church is a very nice facility with comfortable seating to accommodate more people then both East and Centrals gyms can hold combined. I would love to have my grandparents there to watch me graduate, but if we are forced to have them in our gyms, we are going to be limited to the number of people per family that can attend. Another thing that I think is wrong is that what they did was file this ridiculous lawsuit a little more than a month away from graduation. Let’s be real people, tell me there will be another location big enough to hold everyone that’s still available with a little over a month away from graduation. Even if we do move it to another location, there will always be that ONE person who has a problem with where the event will be held. Once our field houses are done, graduation will be held there and we will not have this problem ever again. But watch someone else have a problem with hosting it in a field house. They’ll say sports and academics should be kept apart.

Just because one student or parent does not want it there is no reason to give in. Majority rules. The place that Elmbrook is holding their graduation is just a building. When the Elmbrook graduation is being held it is a "School Graduation Hall" and when there is a church service it becomes a "Church" again. I say it is just a building and if the future graduate can not deal with that they have the freedom to chose not to attend. This is the next step in becoming a adult, if they can not deal with this little problem how will they handle a real problem. This is the United States of America, land of the free. Feel free not to attend but do not cause the whole rest of the class to suffer just because of one person's principals. If we cave into everyones problem we will never accomplish anything. Matter of fact maybe just to make it easy on everyone the school should just send their diplomas to them in the mail after they took there final exam. No ceremony , no party, no whoopla of any kind. Matter of fact this could also save the school district lots of money and help save my taxes. I could continue to go on and on. In short I think the "Americans United for Seperation of Church and State" should be told to "Pound Sand"! Good Luck and GOD bless the class of 2009!

Public high school holding graduation at a Mega-Christian Church...Public high school holding graduation at a Mega-Christian Church...Giant cross...Church...Public School...Church...Mega-Christian...Public high school graduation...Why is the school even fighting this? Even if it is constitutional, why make students, families and attending faculty uncomfortable? There should at least be a non-church alternative, which would also probably be cheaper than litigation.

To Ralph and to "C" and to "Thinker" and to many others ... you are criticizing the supporters of keeping the commencement at Elmbrook church for being nasty and wanting to push religiion and all the rest. Admittedly, you are seeing frustration come from our side. Specifically, it shows in sarcasm when I become infuriated when people do not stay on point. But truly, can we stick to "REAL WORLD" circumstances?? We are not suggesting pictures of Osama Bin Ladin, abortion clinics or any other of these outlandish scenarios that are being tossed around. I'm sure there would be public outcry if there were some awful circumstance suggested for commencement. The facts are that we live in a society where there is a God represented on our currency. Churches stand all over and in many denominations. Aetheists are free to express their non-belief. When I choose to not believe in something -- I simply don't believe, no big deal - live and let live. That being said, my child who DID graduate at Elmbrook has no crosses or religious icons in her photos and no memory of any religious indoctrination in any way, shape or form in her ceremony. She just loved the moment. Further, she loved knowing that as much of her family could be there to share the moment. This was something I could NOT have, since I graduated in the gym at BCHS and my parents were in the crowded and uncomfortable bleachers. Space was limited. No grandparents allowed. I appreciate that you may no "believe" - that's fine. I don't understand how you function. That's just me. But I certainly don't mind your way of thinking and if you had an icon to represent your way of thinking -- it wouldn't offend me, because I am not a believer. If you don't try to indoctrinate me, your icons mean no more to me than a picture on the wall. And please don't start with "offensive pictures on the wall" arguments. Then we'll start all over again. I'm done.

Aren't there more more important issues at our schools that need attention? As the parent of a grad from Mukwonago, I applaude the use of this space so many family members can attend.

Graduation from public school should not be held at a church -- any church. Period. That being said, it's probably too late this year to make other plans. The District should announce the use of the megachurch for one last year of graduation, and then find a secular alternative for future ceremonies.

Thanx to Mary who seems the voice of reason. You people are coming up with ridiculous ideas and for what??? Honestly. Abortion clinics and Bin Ladin photos. What next?? Just have the ceremony and get on with it. For goodness sakes.

I graduated from BEHS in 2002 at Elmbrook Church. Yes, the school should continue holding graduation there. I remember my class doing research on the alternative venues in the Milwaukee area to hold graduation after our class chose to move it from the school gym. Elmbrook Church -- by far -- was the most comfortable at the best price.

Graduation should not be held at Elmbrook Church. I know because I graduated from Brookfield East in 2002. I know that a number of students, parents and faculty members felt uncomfortable in that religious setting. It was impossible to avert my eyes from the giant 20 foot cross over the stage, and the bibles conveniently located within the pews did not aid either. This is a public high school graduation ceremony, and it should not be held in a church. There are many reasons why people attend public schools. One reason is to avoid religious institutions, such as the Elmbrook Church. By having graduation at Elmbrook Church, the district is forcing students, parents and faculty to enter a place of worship. That is wrong. Additionally, this isn't an issue where the majority should rule. No one should be forced to enter a church to participate in a public high school graduation.

Most of the comments by those who are irreligious are laughable. The comment by Thinker comparing Elmbrook to an abortion clinic is so ludicrous that it doesn't bear rebuttal. If you want to take your chances and either deny God or claim He doesn't exist, that's your right, but please stop trampling on the rights of the majority. In this case, the issue should be strictly one of the facility being the best available choice. There will be no proselitizing goiing on, so no one has to hid in fear!

This is ridiculous, it should not even be a conversation, much less a lawsuit. I believe the solution is quite simple, if you don't want to attend the ceremony at Elmbrook Church, don't participate. There are far more important things in this world than starting a frivolous lawsuit because someone doesn't like the location of the graduation ceremony. Elmbrook Church just happens to be large enough to accomodate the students as well as their guests; there is no religious service taking place during the event. Maybe if they just changed the name to the "Elmbrook Building" for the dates of the graduation ceremonies everyone would be happy and just "get along"!!

I do not think we should hold graduation in the Elmbrook Church. It is time we start thinking about others in our community and schools. Just because you are okay with it doesn't mean others are. As a avid church goer, I would be fine if my child attended their graduation in this church, but many others are not. For the good of our community we need to see issues through the eyes of the minority, not the majority.

To Betsy/Milwaukee - I am offended that you assume that all of us in Brookfield are "soccer moms" who wears "designer shoes". My husband and I are parents who have worked hard to be able to afford to live here and want our children to get a good education. This situation has nothing to do with your warped perception that everyone in Brookfield has money. It's about accommodating the large number of people who want to attend the graduations. This really should be a non-issue since the field houses will be completed for next year's graduations. Get over yourself!

Mary, what in the world make you so PC? Why should the majority give up their rights for the minority? That makes absolutely no sense at all, and just how small of a minority would we have to give up our rights for? I can't comprehend your position at all since it makes no sense at all. I suppose you think the losers in elections should be allowed to disqualify the winner and take office? Get real!

Re: Grant. You shouldn't attack Mary like that. The Bill of Rights is a very serious thing, and protecting the minority isn't always a bad thing. In a democracy, minority groups will generally be powerless against the majority. If you look at elections this should be clear. Third parties, e.g., libertarian, green or constitution party, rarely garner the majority of the votes, but certain rights protect the these minority positions from the majority in particular ways. The Bill of Rights, which includes the First Amendment, is a great example of this, because it provides individuals the right to be free from particular government actions. As the majority put those officials into office, the Bill of Rights protects the minority from their actions. Here, the majority isn't really giving up any right, unless you are suggesting that there is a constitutional right to graduate from a public high school in a church? Here the school is forcing students, parents and faculty members to enter a place of worship to participate in a public high school graduation. That is the real issue. At the very least, the school should provide a secular option for families. It wouldn't cost that much more to have a smaller secular ceremony on campus.

As someone with a child who is graduating this year, PLEASE PLEASE do not make us pile into that cramped gym. Keep it at the church. The people responsible for this mess should stand up and make themselves known.

Yes, hold it at Elmbrook. It has the size and comfort needed for everyone. Why cram everyone into a hot gym, like many schools do? I hope Elmbrook does not cave into this.

Great! Now I have to change my name to "Mary I" because there's a new Mary with a really nonsensical viewpoint. Uh, NO, we don't have to look at it through the eyes of the minority. We live in a republic and we vote on stuff. That's the point. Elections. Hello?? I feel another wave of sarcasm coming on, so I think I need to stop now. But really. What are you thinking? -- Nevermind. I don't want to know, you're scaring me.

Elmbrook Church is a beautiful, comfortable venue. If this stupid lawsuit goes through, we'll be having the event in an ugly, unfortable gymnasium. Be careful what you wish for.

It's a wonderful gift this community provides to honor and support the children. The community that owns and operates the church should be commended for their support. I suggest that if someone were offended, that the church community defer to those offendeds alternate proposed location if it properly accomodes the ceremony and is acceptable to the kids and the families who are graduating. If not, then a proper thanks is rightly due for the generous support extended by that Elmbrook community. I have no doubt that church isn't proscelletizing anyone by offering their facility. They are merely being generous citizens and neighbors to share the use of the facility. This isn't a seperation of a church and state issue. The seperation of church and state is a matter of the state imposing a preference for a religion. Where the courts would rule in favor of this individual, however, it then does become a church and state issue. That is, because it then promotes a preference for this one individuals religion, that being aethiesm or whatever other faith he wishes to exercise at the expense of his classmates. So in his wish to excercise his constitutional right to faith, he solicits the state to promote his own faith above the community that sought only to be a good neighbor.

People, the issue is not a matter of comfort. The Supreme Court of the United States has ruled that the first amendment, though it never uses the phrase 'seperation of church and state' means just that. The Court also ruled in a previous case that high school graduations cannot have religious speakers or take place in a religious center. They even ruled that the school could not just ask those who were offended to leave. The fact of the matter is regardless of how hot and stuff the gym maybe THE SUPREME COURT and the CONSTITUTION demand that we change the location. I don't like it, but if we violate the constitution whenever it makes us 'uncomfortable' the country would be in anarchy. Sometimes you just have to grin and bear it. It's the cost of freedom.

I was involved in searching out other venues/options for graduation for one of my kids - all of them proved to be too small (Pabst Theatre, Wilson Center, etc.) or too cost prohibitive (Expo Center at State Fair Park, Midwest Express Center). The gyms prohibit grandparents and siblings from attending the graduation ceremony. And if the grad was from a blended family, not all "parents" could attend. Not too mention that the weather always seems to be HOT and MUGGY. If the facility were a Mosque, Synagogue, or any other type of building, I would not care. As long as it offered comfortable seating for the entire family in an air conditioned venue with audio visual equipment that gave us a close up of our grad getting their diploma. The graduation ceremony should be held as planned - besides the graduation announcements have all been sent out.

Re: TO ALL who found my opinion offensive. First of all, I love this city and know we can be and do better. My comment comes from wanting us to start thinking about others and not just ourselves. Let's open our eyes a little bit and see the other side of this issue. We shouldn't be doing what is best for most, but what is best for all!

Harold, your statement expresses what the litigants want to have happen, not what the Supreme Court has ruled on. Very false statement on your part. If the supreme court had ruled as you state they have (just a lie) there would be no issue here. Go Back on your med's it shows when you don't take them.

It would be ridiculous to move the graduation ceremony from the comfortable, accessible environment of Elmbrook Church (which looks more like an auditorium than it does a church, anyway). To me, the complaint of the group from Washington, D.C. has no legitimate basis. If I don't like baseball, that doesn't mean I can't go to a concert at Miller Park and have a good time. I wouldn't be offended by any symbols of baseball there- I'd ignore them and focus on the event I'm there for. It's about time we start standing up to the "politically correct" and atheist agitators that stretch to find offense in every little thing in our society and stop allowing them to dictate.

Separation of church & state??? Just what does the incoming President of the United States do at the inauguration? Stand in front of a Supreme Court Judge, place his hand on a bible and state SO HELP ME GOD! Holding the graduation at this church has NOTHING to do with a church service. It's a building for crying out loud! And, has been said many times before, this is the last graduation in the church one month from now.

Hats off to Americans United for Separation of Church and State for having the courage to bring this lawsuit. I'm going to send them a donation. The graduation should definitely be held in a public facility.

Not so fast, Harold. The Supreme Court applied a few contingencies here. The separation clause has to meet a few litmus tests. We are fine if it lacks secular purpose, if it does not promote/inhibit religion, if it does not excessively involve government and religion, if there is no coercion involved and if no religion is being favored or promoted. We pass all of these. We are using a building, generously being provided to us for the purpose of allowing ALL of our family members the joy of seeing our graduates on their special day. There is no agenda here. Now you may argue that the mere sight of a crucifix repels you and this is a form of coercion to your way of thinking. But this is where the "vote" enters into the mix. I vote for Elmbrook Church.

Religion is a person's personal preference no matter how ridiculous it is. All religion is myth and one should accept that. With that said, who cares if a graduation ceremony is in a church, you dont have to beleive in that nonsense anyway.

As a student of Brookfield East, i can tell you that prety much everyone except those small amount of kids is perfectly fine with the ceremony being held there. Do we really care that much about these tiny issues any more? We're not talking a cathedral here people. It's a modern day church, if it weren't for the giant cross up front and a few stained glass windows at the top, you couldn't even tell this was a place for some sort of holy gathering. If those 3 kids don't like it, tell them to suck it up for the 3 hours of their life they'll spend in a church, or transfer to some other school. Please...

Jane | Cudahy or ANYONE ELSE... show us all where the "law" or "The Constitution" come into the argument. The truth is there is no law and there is NOTHING in The Constitution that supports your position. You are a fool if you believe that a high school graduation establishes a religion. "JUST READ IT!!! Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof... Americans United for Separation of Church and State are simply bullies. I say we call their bluff.

Mary and "Smoke and Mirrors" In Lemon v. Kurtzman, (1971) the Supreme Court ruled that an action of government violates First Amendment's separation of church and state if there is excessive entanglement between government and religion. Additionally, in the case Lee v. Weisman (1992) the Court ruled it is unconstitutional for a school district to provide any nondenominational prayer at elementary or secondary school graduation. It involves government sponsorship of worship. Court majority was particularly concerned about psychological coercion to which children, as opposed to adults, would be subjected, by having prayers that may violate their beliefs recited at their graduation ceremonies. The schools were not permitted to hold a separate graduation or ask those offended not to attend, this was deemed a violation of the objector’s rights. Having the ceremony at the church violates the 'entanglement' test, because it represents the convergence of a state ceremony on church grounds. The Weisman case sets precedent for the Elmbrook suit. Also, I am not on any medication. But thanks for worrying.

1. People need to understand the difference between a building and a church. The graduation ceremony is being held in a building, not a church service. 2. I hope the courts respect the rights of the majority of students and their relatives. If the ceremony is not held in this building, then the rights of many people will be denied because of the lack of space, or poor facilities. (80 year old grandparents would love to see their grandchildren graduate and really appreciate the comforts of the building on south Barker.

Re: Steve. You seem to be missing the point. The building that you refer to is called "The Sanctuary" by Elmbrook Church, has a twenty foot cross above the stage, and has bibles set out in pews. The issue is whether the Elmbrook School District can force students to enter Elmbrook Church in order to participate in a graduation ceremony. You seem to suggest that Elmbrook should have that power, but do you really want to give the government that authority?

Keep the State out of the Church and the Church out of the State!

Elmbrook is renting the facility for its own purpose, not the purpose of those that own the building. Wake up people , are you going to make churches and other religious facilities locate so far off a road that you don't have to drive by a cross and maybe have influence on your driving. Really the level of intelligence being used here is very low. So what if there is a bible in the pew, maybe some one will leave a copy of the Shepherd Express there also. Who cares. Just using the building for a graduation event, would love to see this go through. Hopefully our school board will not listen to the very small minority here that obviously have mental problems of having a fetish against a cross some where in society. Sounds like the Muslim attitude of hating all Christians and wanting to do away with them . God Bless America !

This idiocy needs to stop. Elmbrook Church is only a building when it is hosting graduations. It is a church when it is hosting church activities. I will contribute to a defense against these lunatics.

Absolutely hold the graduations at ElmBrook Church. Why does the"comfort" of a few have to outway the comfort of the many. Would these same few not attend a family function such as a wedding for funeral if it were held in a church?

261 responses. That is fine, but how about focusing our attention on things that are more important? I am not trying to offend anyone. I am just hoping to channel some of our efforts, passion, time and talent. How about: Cooking something for a food pantry so a few less families will have to go without dinner this week? Sending a small gift to a child at Children’s hospital with an incurable disease? Organizing a group to walk/run for breast cancer, heart disease, or ... ? Sending your children to volunteer at the new Waukesha Habitat for Humanity store? Visiting a senior citizen who is confined to their home? Donating to Lake Country Caring in Hartland who distributes clothes & household items FREE to poor families? There is so much need for you as well as for your high school student out there ...

I think that the school district should stick with the Elmbrook venue. It's size and amenities suit the event. I would have no problem sending my child to other religious venues for graduation. I've never heard a sermon at any graduation in my life and I don't think it'll start happening now. Bseides, let's not forget how helpful Elmbrook church is to our community and metro Milwaukee. We're dealing with the malcontent. You can't please everyone but we can stop wasting time and money on the issue.

Re: Rick & Steve, why must their only be one ceremony and why must it be held in Elmbrook Church? And Steve, if it isn't a church when service is not going on, why won't the Elmbrook Church cover the cross when service is not happening. You have to admit that the building is a place of worship and that continues whether or not service is happening. Rick - you're missing the point of state action. If someone didn't want to attend a funeral because it was a private event held at a location that didn't make them feel comfortable, that would be the person's choice. Here, the School District is either forcing students to attend graduation in a church or not attend graduation. The involvement of the government- the school board, changes the circumstances. Re: Open Your Eyes, your comments openly display your prejudice and hatred. This has nothing to do with Muslims. NOTHING.

Graduates are not being asked to express any sign of faith during the ceremony. The current lawsuit is focused on a graduate being required to be exposed to Christian symbols in order to attend graduation. US Citizens are constantly exposed to symbols of Christianity (along with signs and symbols of many other religions). These symbols (i.e. cross, etc.) are only meaningful to those that believe in them. Without faith, the cross that seems to be a focus of this lawsuit is just a piece of wood. It is unfortunate that any reasonable adult would spend taxpayer dollars on a lawsuit and inconvenience the entire graduating class and their families over a symbol that they don't even believe in.

Why is everyone fixated on the cross? It is a symbol! If it does not mean anything to you, why are you bothered by it. What if we take that same symbol and put it in the middle of a field and set it on fire. What does that symbol represent now? Something totally different. It is how we are viewing this. Unless someone can come up with a viable option (which Dr. Gibson stated will be done next year), let's keep the comforts of its current locations. With all the articles and letters going around, no one has given an option that works, besides the gym, which the students have voted not to hold there. Besides all this bickering on this venue, my biggest issue is; what are my two daughters losing out of because the district has to funnel money to a defense fund? The superintendent already has stated it will move next year, what is the issue? Drop the law suit and let’s get on with educating our children.

Have two ceremonies. Let students and families make the decision where they want to go.

The responses to this issue simply highlights how irrational and damaging religion can be. Whether it is the religion of belief in a so-called supreme being or the religion of non-belief. You have extremists on all sides, whether they be muslim, jewish, christian, hindu atheist etc. This is extremism is why civilization will crumble as we know it, as these groups fight over more and more control of our lives and for power. All religion is based upon myth and not fact. So who cares where the ceremony is held. One is exposed to religion in every aspect of one's life so one can either choose to believe or not, but dont thrust your beliefs upon another no matter what side you may be on. Let the kids enjoy their graduation and then move on. You cant please everybody, so suck it up and play nice. Dont be a Democrat.

For my HS graduation at East we had a speech talking about the class president's "Best Friend" who by the end of the speech was revealed to be God. I would much rather have a ceremony in a church without that sort of speech than be crammed in a hot gym and be preached at.

Billy I do have EXTREME PREJUDICE against a religious group such as the Muslims that want to do away with ALL Christians, You bet . Call it what you want. The golden rule here prevails, do them in before they do you in. Century s of fighting them. Absolutely EXTREME PREJUDICE. I would have to presume at this point the only way you would get shot in a war of survival would be in the back. I am glad that Elmbrook is going ahead with the ceremony at Elmbrook Church's Facility. So at this point we just have to wait and see what kind of judgment is issued by a judge. Those that don't want to attend can have their diploma sent to them by snail mail and cry about it the rest of their life. Next year we can hold it in each gym, you know they are being air conditioned, rent some chairs, done deal dot com. That will shut up the cry baby minority in the system. Not going to cater to the few who's opinions are so wild and useless. Move on. No more time for stupid rhetoric by the minority. That is why they are in the minority. Short circuit in the brain.

Seriously, Billy? So the district pays for two ceremonies? We'll have most of the class at Elmbrook and then you and your friends at the other. I'm sure all the kids will have some memorable to look back on. Al has it right on. Just wait until next year. In the meantime, let's use this adequate facility that is reserved for a great occcasion and deal with the concessions we have to accept due to complainers next year. This is just silly.

In response to Ralph..calling any church tacky shows a lot of class and all of it low. It is a place they rent to hold graduation. Plain and Simple but if God would be mentioned perhaps it would this country some good.

John - the district is spending millions on upgrading the two high schools. They can't budget for a 2nd smaller secular ceremony in the gym? Re: Open-Your-Eyes. This has nothing at all to do with Muslims, and you are horribly uninformed regarding Islam. I just don't understand why there is so much hostility towards those that don't want to enter Elmbrook Church for a graduation ceremony. There are legitimate reasons to not like Elmbrook Church, right? To the extent that Elmbrook Church subscribes to particular views, individuals have the right to disagree with those views, yes? The world doesn't need to agree with Elmbrook Church, do they? I just don't understand why a school would want to make any student feel uncomfortable in a religious setting or force a student into not attending graduation to avoid that religious setting. Why not have two ceremonies?

Elmbrook Church is its members, gathered together in unity and worship... the building is nothing but brick, mortor, and glass.. There is no church in attendance while the gradutation ceremonies are taking place.. So the issue of seperation of church and state is not even an issue. Why waste the taxpayers money, ruin what would other wise be a wonderful event for graduates and families who wish to comfortably attend?