Biographical note: Vernon Elfbrandt taught for four Tucson Unified School District junior high schools, beginning in 1957. His wife, Barbara, taught eighth grade in the Amphitheater School District. In 1961, when the state passed a law requiring all public employees to sign a loyalty oath in order to receive salary, the Elfbrandts refused and took their case through the Courts. The statute was a reflection of a national concern about the threat of communism at the time. In 1966, the United States Supreme Court ruled in their favor and they were eventually paid for their years of teaching. The Emergency Committee to Defend the Liberties of Arizona Public Employees was formed to raise money for their cause.
From the description of Elfbrandt vs. Russell loyalty oath case papers, 1948-1996 (bulk 1961-1966). (Arizona Historical Society, Southern Arizona Division). WorldCat record id: 48067023
