El Dorado Supervisors Rescind ‘Christian Heritage Month’ Declaration

El Dorado County supervisors have rescinded a resolution designating July as “American Christian Heritage Month.” 

As County News reported in August, District 1 Supervisor and Board Chairman John Hidahl introduced the measure, which then passed 4-1. Supervisor Lori Parlin cast the lone “no” vote.

The proclamation was condemned by civil rights groups like the American Civil Liberties Union and the Freedom From Religion Foundation. The groups said the resolution was a clear violation of the U.S. Constitution’s Establishment Clause.

Even some of Hidahl’s critics are now giving him credit for his change of heart. It was Hidahl who introduced the motion to rescind the resolution Tuesday.

“The intent of the proclamation was to recognize the importance of some of our religious heritage associated with July 4, 1776,” he said. “The intent wasn’t accomplished, and when that doesn’t happen, electeds have a responsibility to reconsider.”

He elaborated further in an interview with the Sacramento Bee.  

“…When anything that is meant to be strictly ceremonial or celebrational creates more divisiveness within our communities in El Dorado County, then it’s appropriate to remove it.”

The other supervisors who initially supported the resolution also acknowledged they had made a “mistake," with one calling it a “learning opportunity.”