[5] In July 2010, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) sent a letter to Cranston School District superintendent on behalf of an unnamed parent who complained about the banner.

At the end of the November meeting, out of safety concerns, a police escort was provided for Ahlquist and one other person who spoke in favor of the banner's removal.

[9] At a contentious meeting of the full committee, she argued the case for the removal of the banner and a similar display at Bain Middle School.

[12] The Cranston School Committee had made defense arrangements with Joseph V. Cavanagh, Jr. and The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty which represented them without charge.

At the hearing, Lagueux remarked that Ahlquist "is clearly an articulate and courageous young woman, who took a brave stand, particularly in light of the hostile response she has received from her community".

Following the ruling on the case, police involvement has increased, both escorting Ahlquist to classes[15] and investigating threats, mostly originating in Cranston.

[18] Religious leaders from the Rhode Island State Council of Churches rallied to defend Ahlquist and condemn the language used to describe her.

[20] On the day following the ruling, Rhode Island State Representative Peter G. Palumbo spoke on a local radio show and referred to Ahlquist as "an evil little thing".

[24] The banner was removed, intact, during the first weekend in March, and the school and city agreed to pay the ACLU $150,000 in legal fees.

[25] On the day of the agreement, a group consisting of three students, three alumni, and a North Providence resident filed a motion to stay.