Bowling Green, KY asked in Copyright for Kentucky

Q: Is the state motto Crossroads of America public domain?

I plan on using it as my script title

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: The phrase "Crossroads of America" is not the official state motto of Kentucky; it is actually associated with Indiana. Kentucky's state motto is "United We Stand, Divided We Fall." However, even though "Crossroads of America" is not Kentucky's motto, it is still a widely recognized slogan.

When using such phrases for a script title, it’s essential to consider that common slogans can sometimes be protected under trademark law if they are actively used by a business or organization. If "Crossroads of America" is used by another entity in a way that is protected, it might limit your ability to use it freely.

To be safe, you might want to research whether the phrase is trademarked or in active commercial use. If it is, consider choosing a different title or consulting with a legal professional to ensure you're not infringing on any rights.

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