Vashti McCollum’s brave stand to protect her 10-year-old son from religious instruction in public schools stands as one of the most important and landmark Supreme Court cases in U.S. history. The 1951 case of McCollum v. Board of Education effectively established the separation of church and state in public schools, setting a precedent for how religion should be handled in American institutions that continues to this day.
The Lord Is Not On Trial Here Today is a powerful documentary about Vashti McCollum’s fight for religious freedom, which earned both a Peabody and Emmy Award for its impactful storytelling. The film chronicles the events leading up to her landmark Supreme Court case, delving into the personal struggles she endured as a result of her decision to challenge the school board’s practice of teaching religious instruction in classrooms. It also examines how her case has had lasting ramifications on modern conflicts over religion in public institutions, from Ten Commandments displays in courtrooms to student-led prayer at school graduations.
The story behind Vashti McCollum’s historic victory is an inspiring reminder that our Constitution is not self-executing—it takes someone with tremendous courage and conviction to fight for what they believe in despite all odds. Her story proves that when we stand up for our beliefs, we can make real change happen. By watching The Lord Is Not On Trial Here Today, viewers will gain an appreciation for not only what Vashti McCollum accomplished but also why it remains so relevant today.
