— Public schools statewide would have to display the U.S. motto "In God We Trust" and the North Carolina motto "Esse Quam Videri" under legislation House lawmakers approved Thursday.

Sponsor Rep. Bert Jones, R-Rockingham, initially wanted to post the English translation of the state motto, "To Be Rather Than To Seem," but he amended the bill to include the original Latin phrase along with the translation because several House members asked for both.

"It's important that young people understand the history of our country," Jones said.

The American Civil Liberties Union has come out against the proposal, calling it divisive and suggesting students with different religious views might not feel welcome in school if they see "In God We Trust" posted there.

"I understand anytime the name of God is brought up, it's going to be divisive," Jones said, adding that motto "doesn't compel anybody to worship anybody."

"This doesn't establish religion. It simply acknowledges a general belief in God, which has been an important part of our history," agreed Rep. Larry Pittman, R-Cabarrus. "Our children need to know the history of our nation and our state."

Rep. Verla Insko, D-Orange, noted that "E Pluribus Unum" – "Out of Many, One" – had been the unofficial U.S. motto until Congress adopted "In God We Trust" in 1956, and she said that would be more appropriate to post in schools.

"We need to be understanding. We need to respect our diversity and get along," Insko said.

Rep. Harry Warren, R-Rowan, joked that anyone who feels "In God We Trust" is offensive could simply drop all of their cash off at his desk, and he would dispose of it for them.

Jones said the cost of posting the mottoes would be "negligible," noting public-service groups might purchase plaques for some schools, and others could simply post student art that contained the two phrases.

After the 94-15 vote, the proposal heads to the Senate.