Teen calls removal of banner rewarding

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The young woman at the center of an emotional controversy says she's happy with a judge's decision to remove a prayer banner at her high school.

“I’m so glad and proud that the right decision was made and that the constitution was upheld,” said Jessica Ahlquist, a junior at Cranston High School West.

A judge has ordered a prayer banner that has been in Cranston West High School for decades, to be taken down immediately.

“The district court carefully reviewed the record conclude as we had argued that the school prayer was installed to convey a religious message and that the decision to maintain it in 2011 was infused with a religious purpose and effect.” said Lynette Labinger, lawyer for the RI ACLU.

Ahlquist, an atheist, says the judge’s decision is deeply rewarding but not surprising.

“This country was founded to be a secular country. We’re supposed to keep church and state separate so people can have their rights and their freedom to choose. And I think that this lawsuit is a reflection of that.”

Throughout the two year court fight that triggered deep emotions on both sides, Jessica said she has lost friends and gained friends.

“A lot of the people that I have met because of this, have become really close friends. And the friends who I’ve lost I guess, weren’t really my friends anyway, if they weren’t willing to stand behind me in this,” said Ahlquist.

City officials have 10 days to respond to the ruling, and haven't decided yet whether to abide by the decision or pay the legal fees to appeal.

• Related: Text of Cranston West Prayer Banner

City officials claimed the banner was an historical artifact and serves no religious purpose.

The prayer banner has been hanging in the auditorium for nearly 50 years, after being written by a student. It contains reference to "Heavenly Father" and ends with "Amen."