Disagrees with Glacier Bank sign

Editor,

I am a Glacier Bank customer, with both a savings account and a security deposit box at Glacier Bank. As I drove by the Polson location yesterday morning, I noticed that the sign out front of Glacier Bank read "One Nation Under God." Of course I realize that is the line added to the Pledge of Allegiance by President Eisenhower in the mid 1950s. As well, I am well aware that American currency bears the slogan "In God We Trust."

Having said that, I am not sure why Glacier Bank has chosen to singularly, and out-of-context proclaim "One Nation Under God" on the message board in front of the location in Polson. I think it is in bad taste, and also that it is inappropriate for a financial institution to promote religion in this way. Whether or not I believe in God, or you do, is a personal matter and should not become part of the banking experience. I do not need or want my bank to define my religion for me.

I have seen things like, "Bless Our Troops" or "God Bless America" and somehow that is not as divisive and political "One Nation Under God." Is it a particular God? Is it Jesus Christ? Buddha? Zeus? In these highly charged, partisan times it could be construed that Glacier Bank is making an anti-American statement promoting the further blurring of the line between Church and State.

What of your customers who may not share those beliefs? Is Glacier Bank trying to say something to them as well? They are not welcome at your bank? They should go to some "heathen" bank? Is that really good business? And can you safely assume that only people who believe in God populate this area? One must ask these questions in your position, I would think.

I really do think Glacier Bank should respect all of its customers and use greater discretion, and frankly use tact and good taste in such matters. I do hope that my banking services do not decline for expressing my opinion.

Seth A. Bloom

Polson