An interesting thing happened on Tues. July 14th; the Irvine City Council approved in a 4-to-1 vote to display two phrases in their City Hall. They are; e pluribus unum and, In God We Trust. The former is Latin for, ‘Out of the many, one’.
This is a breath of fresh air especially when viewed against the assault over the past several decades on our town squares, city halls, municipal buildings, and our public schools. Every reference to God, allegiance to our flag, and holidays such as Christmas is considered ‘offensive’ because some don’t believe in it. The result is that much our heritage and history is being meticulously scrubbed away.
Anyway, local residents showed up to debate the pros and cons until 10 p.m. One resident who represents skeptics and atheists urged strongly against it since not all people believe in God he said.
Mayor Pro Tem Jeff Lalloway who voted in favor said, “People who don’t believe in God should be tolerant of those who do.” And I believe this is a key point – naysayers (on any issue) forget that tolerance works both ways.
Mayor Steven Choi, who proposed that the phrase, In God We Trust be put in the council chambers, said our country was founded on these principles.
As a resident who has lived here since 1994, I personally want to thank Mr. Choi and the City of Irvine for having open debate on this issue, taking advice of others to include the other phrase, and for approving of this in a civilized, democratic fashion. Thank You!
Some may forget that we live in a democracy where it’s okay to argue, fuss and fight, – in fact, it’s not always pretty – but we do so by the rule of law and usually by vote where the majority rules.
Chalk one up for the Gipper!
With Faith there is Hope.
P.W.
Patricia Wenskunas
Click Here for the Orange County Register Article
