Jeb Bush Inaugurates Faith-Based Prison
Posted on Wed Dec 24, 2003 at 11:13:57 PM EST
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Check out Jeb Bush's comments as he spoke to the inmates Wednesday at the inauguration of Florida's first faith-based prison:
During the dedication ceremony, many of the prisoners jumped to their feet, smiled brightly and clapped in rhythm as a gospel singer performed "His Eye is on the Sparrow." Some shouted "Sing it!" and "Amen!"
Bush told the inmates, "I can't think of a better place to reflect on the awesome love of our lord Jesus than to be here at Lawtey Correctional. God bless you."
While many prisoners loudly applauded Bush, some remained seated throughout the ceremony, staring straight ahead with no expression.
We're surprised no one booed. Oh, right, those who didn't want to participate were given the option of transferring out before inaugural day. Where's the ACLU on this? Right here:
Howard Simon, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Florida, called the prison program part of "a major constitutional showdown on the legality of his preference to replace government programs with religious programs." He said the ACLU is waiting for the results of a test case challenging a state law authorizing school vouchers, which 85 percent of recipients use to enroll in religious schools.
So how is a faith-based prison different from all other prisons? Here's the revised daily schedule at the prison according to Palm Beach Post columnist Frank Cerabino.
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