In reality, I think it could be two things. First, it could be people afraid that their “way of life” is threatened. We’ve seen that with the “OMG teh Mexicans R coming!” before. People want to maintain the status quo, no matter how illogical and unrealistic that may be. Since they can’t DO much to make people “be like them and think like them” – they do what they have the power to do, pass silly laws that add their superhero to the city shield/logo/slogan/song.

Second, it could be that they think, now stick with me, that money is “trusted” because it says “In God We Trust” on it, and they are trying to market the city as wholesome and trustworthy.

But, whether they mean it or not, it’s just another form of discrimination that I hope we eventually overcome!

Nice post!

I also wonder if it is a direct effort to keep out some undesired element to begin with. Considering the comments on I Heart SCV about godless heathens, it’s clear that people of our belief set (or lack thereof) are not a welcome element to many. We already know Muslims are also apparently universally reviled among the conservative set, almost as much so as atheists. The remaining groups are, simply, too foreign for comfort. Wearing our city’s prejudices on its seal will simply make it that much easier to keep them from ever buying a home here.

The lack of understanding of our country’s history is saddening. One of the most fundamental reasons for our secession was an issue of religious freedom. These very people’s beliefs were once under attack, and it’s that adversity that led them to take action and create this “more perfect union.” And yet, once they’ve managed to establish the same level of power and majority that once ruled over them, they happily turn around and treat others much the same way. But I fear this is simply a human condition. We’re content so long as what we care about isn’t threatened, and those that don’t agree with us don’t share the same level of importance. I wonder sometimes if it’s something we can overcome, but then I look at the world around us and see examples from all angles. There are countries that have pulled it off and serve as a great example. But can our culture handle the shift? Only time and progress will tell.

Santa Clarita, I AM DISAPPOINT.