Okla. legislator issues moral proclamation

OKLAHOMA CITY, July 3 (UPI) -- Oklahoma state Rep. Sally Kern used the Statehouse as a backdrop for the release of a proclamation urging the United States to return to biblical values.

Kern drew about 250 people Thursday, some to support her and sign her proclamation while a smaller group came to protest it, the Daily Oklahoman reported. Critics said she violated separation of church and state by holding the event in the Capitol.

The proclamation criticizes President Barack Obama for not taking a more active role in the National Day of Prayer and blames the economic slump on moral failure.

"This nation has become a world leader in promoting abortion, pornography, same sex marriage, sex trafficking, divorce, illegitimate births, child abuse, and many other forms of debauchery," it says.

Only four members of Oklahoma's 149-member state Legislature joined Kern, all Republicans.

Protesters chanted "Shame on you" and "Love thy neighbor." Kern's supporters responded by singing "God Bless America."

The exchange became so noisy Kern ended the event and moved a news conference into the press office.