First Amendment Under Fire: Oklahoma School Chief’s Controversial Actions

Have you noticed how those who loudly champion the Constitution often end up disregarding it? Ryan Walters, Oklahoma’s superintendent of public instruction, offers a striking example. His actions, framed by fervent religious and political beliefs, have plunged the state’s education system into turmoil.

Walters has managed to infringe upon at least four of the five freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment, showcasing an alarming disregard for constitutional principles. This article explores the controversies surrounding Walters and the lessons they offer neighboring states like Kansas.

Key First Amendment Violations by Ryan Walters

Ryan Walters’ leadership has been marked by actions that challenge fundamental constitutional freedoms. Below are the key areas where Walters’ policies and decisions have come under fire:

Freedom Violated	Controversial Action
Freedom of the Press	Banning KFOR-TV from public meetings over unfavorable reporting, later losing a lawsuit that restored media access.
Freedom of Religion	Purchasing 532 “God Bless the USA Bibles” using state funds and mandating their use in classrooms.
Freedom of Religion (2)	Requiring students to watch a video of Walters praying for Donald Trump and his administration.
Freedom of Speech	Enforcing curricula that glorify Trump’s presidency while banning discussions of January 6 events.
Freedom to Petition Government	Firing an employee for speaking to a school board about mental health concerns, leading to a lawsuit.

Freedom of the Press: A Legal Defeat for Walters

Walters attempted to bar KFOR-TV, an Oklahoma City news outlet, from covering public meetings, claiming dissatisfaction with their reporting. This led to a lawsuit that KFOR-TV ultimately won, securing full access to all public meetings and press events. The station was even awarded $17.91 in damages, a symbolic nod to the year the First Amendment was ratified.

Religious Controversies: Bibles and Prayer Mandates

Walters allocated state funds to purchase 532 copies of the “God Bless the USA Bible,” a product linked to Donald Trump. His broader plan to distribute 55,000 additional Bibles was shelved after criticisms over its cost and clear preference for a specific version. Walters also attempted to force schools to show a YouTube video of him praying for Trump, a mandate he later rescinded after public backlash.

Freedom of Speech Under Threat

Walters introduced new social studies standards requiring teachers to highlight Trump’s achievements while forbidding any mention of his role in the January 6 Capitol events. Walters explicitly stated, “We will not allow discussions that imply President Trump incited an insurrection.”

Public Pushback and Legal Battles

Resistance to Walters’ policies has been swift and widespread:

1. Legal Victories: Parents, teachers, and faith leaders have sued Walters, citing violations of the separation of church and state.
2. Supreme Court Intervention: The Oklahoma Supreme Court blocked Walters’ initiative to establish publicly funded religious charter schools.
3. Community Involvement: Public comments on Walters’ new social studies standards suggest mounting opposition.

Lessons for Neighboring States

Walters’ controversial tenure serves as a cautionary tale for states like Kansas. His disregard for constitutional protections has sparked legal challenges, public outrage, and policy failures.

As Kansas observes from across the border, the message is clear: safeguard the First Amendment to ensure balanced and inclusive governance.

FAQs

1. What freedoms has Ryan Walters been accused of violating?

Walters’ actions have allegedly violated freedom of the press, freedom of religion (twice), freedom of speech, and the freedom to petition the government.

2. How did Walters handle media criticism?

He barred KFOR-TV from public meetings, leading to a lawsuit that reinstated the station’s rights and awarded symbolic damages.

3. Why were the Bible purchases controversial?

The “God Bless the USA Bibles” were purchased with state funds, raising concerns over favoritism and the separation of church and state.

4. What’s happening with the new social studies curriculum?

Walters has mandated the curriculum to highlight Trump’s achievements, with public comment and legislative approval still pending.

5. How can citizens stay informed on Walters’ policies?

Oklahomans can participate in public comment periods and follow updates from organizations challenging Walters’ initiatives in court.