Benton County, Arkansas, is set to display the national motto, “In God We Trust,” in all public buildings by October 1, 2023. The Quorum Court voted unanimously, with a count of 12-0, to approve a resolution mandating that the motto be prominently displayed in county-operated facilities. This decision aligns with state law outlined in Act 911, which encourages the inclusion of the motto alongside the American and Arkansas flags.
According to Act 911, school superintendents, state agency officials, and local building administrators are required to display durable copies of “In God We Trust,” provided that funding is available. The acquisition of the posters must come from donations or voluntary contributions, ensuring no taxpayer dollars are utilized for this purpose.
Benton County resident Mark Rockwell has taken an initiative by donating 25 posters featuring the motto for display, at no cost to the county. During the public comment segment of the Quorum Court meeting, Rockwell emphasized that his support for displaying the motto does not equate to endorsing religious coercion or the exclusion of nonbelievers.
Community Perspectives on the Motto
“The objective is not to impose belief, but to invite reflection on the deeper sources of our common values,” Rockwell stated. He pointed out that the county’s population primarily consists of Protestants, Catholics, and Jews, all serving the same God. He expressed that citizens desire leaders who rely on divine principles rather than personal moral judgments.
Rockwell’s comments highlight a collective sentiment within the community, suggesting that referencing God serves to reaffirm shared values and symbolize a commitment to fairness, compassion, integrity, and respect for pluralism. His remarks resonate with many in the county who see the motto as a reflection of their values rather than an imposition of belief.
In a formal opinion issued on February 13, Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin clarified that the law applies broadly to all public buildings and facilities maintained with taxpayer funds, not just those operated by the state. This includes county courthouses and offices overseen by local judges acting as building administrators.
Implications of the Resolution
While the vote was unanimous, two justices of the peace, Jeff Dunn and Richard McKeehan, were absent during the proceedings. As the county prepares for the implementation of this resolution, it remains essential to consider how this initiative will be received by the broader community.
The Quorum Court’s decision reflects an ongoing dialogue about the role of religious expressions in public spaces. As Benton County moves forward, the motto’s display will likely serve as a focal point for discussions about faith, community values, and the intersection of religion and government.
The full meeting and agenda details are available for public access, allowing residents to stay informed about further developments regarding this and other local matters.
