The city of Brevard County in Florida is embroiled in a controversy over the use of the slogan “In God We Trust” on sheriff’s department vehicles. Many residents and individuals in the wider state object to the phrase, requesting its removal from community law enforcement vehicles. The long-standing slogan, present on police vehicles since the early 1900s, is defended by Sheriff Wayne Ivey, who opposes its removal.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), an American non-profit organization based in Madison, Wisconsin, is advocating for the slogan’s removal. FFRF has championed the separation of church and state since the 1970s, emphasizing public awareness on issues related to atheism, agnosticism, and nontheistic traditions. While not against Christianity per se, the organization opposes the promotion of Christian beliefs in society. They argue that “In God We Trust”, a state and national motto, is inappropriate on city government vehicles. Annie Laurie Gaylor, co-president of the FFRF, insisted that taxpayer money shouldn’t fund religious messages on government property. Gaylor also emphasized that law enforcement officers should prioritize legal judgment over divine intervention.
Sheriff Wayne Ivey maintains his support for the slogan, citing its endorsement by the broader Brevard community. He underlines that the decals bearing the slogan come at no cost to taxpayers, with the Boniface Heirs Automotive Group partly funding the department’s vehicle decals. Sheriff Ivey, aware of the diverse perspectives on the slogan, acknowledges the FFRF’s stance but is determined not to be swayed.
Despite acknowledging that many disagree with the phrase “In God we Trust”, Sheriff Ivey stands by his legal right to retain the slogan on public vehicles. He emphasized that its presence on sheriff department squad cars does not constitute a breach of law. Sheriff Ivey reassures the people of Brevard County of his continued service, undeterred by organizations such as the FFRF, and he remains unwavering in upholding local choices and traditions. This situation spotlights the ongoing tensions between religious expression, community preferences, and concerns over the separation of church and state.
