All Kids First! Kicks off Campaign
Statement prepared by the ACLU of Michigan

Public education is the cornerstone of American democracy. An educated electorate is necessary to sustain our democratic system. Public education is the principal institution in American society that is designed to create a unified nation with a shared understanding of democratic values.

We must continue to improve public education, not abandon it. The ACLU strongly opposes any scheme that would further damage the neighborhood schools that the vast majority of Michigan students attend.

We oppose policies-like the proposal to amend the Michigan Constitution to eliminate the prohibition on indirect funding in order to support private and parochial schools-that would damage the communities in which those schools are located, and funnel taxpayers' money into schools that can discriminate on the basis of religion, race, academics, mental or physical ability, or income.

Every parent already has the right to choose a religious education for his or her child, but taxpayers should not be expected to pay for that choice. Since 85% of private schools in Michigan are parochial, it is obvious that tax dollars will eventually flow to parochial schools. Allowing even indirect taxpayer funding of private and parochial schools is a clear violation of both Michigan and U.S. constitutional principles.

Some are now proposing to use public finds to subsidize private and religious education. But unlike public schools, private and parochial schools are largely unregulated and unaccountable to taxpayers.

We should not even consider draining the funds needed to educate ALL of our children. The pro-voucher campaign, "Kids First, Yes!" should really be called "Some Kids First."

For further information, contact:
Wendy Wagenheim, Legislative Director
(517) 372-8503 or (313) 961-7728

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