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European unity tested over crucifixes in classroom
If European court's ruling stands, symbol will be removed from schools

by VICTOR L. SIMPSON

updated 7/2/2010 1:44:52 PM

ROME — An emotional debate over crucifixes in classrooms is opening a new crack in European unity.
It all started in a small town in northern Italy, where Finnish-born Soile Lautsi was so shocked by the sight of crosses above the blackboard in her children's public school classroom that she called a lawyer to see if she could get them removed.
Her case went all the way to Europe's highest court — and her victory has set up a major confrontation between traditional Catholic and Orthodox countries and nations in the north that observe a strict separation between church and state. Italy and more than a dozen other countries are fighting the European Court of Human Rights ruling, contending the crucifix is a symbol of the continent's historic and cultural roots.
"This is a great battle for the freedom and identity of our Christian values," said Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini.
The court case underlines how religious symbols are becoming a contentious issue in an increasingly multiethnic Europe.
French legislators begin debate next week on a draft law, vigorously championed by President Nicolas Sakorzy, that would forbid women from wearing face-covering Islamic veils anywhere in public. Belgium and Spain are considering similar laws.................>>>>..............>>>>............http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38062809/ns/world_news-europe/