A religious liberty group in Connecticut is contesting a state policy that prevented it from displaying a Nativity scene in the Capitol. The Family Institute of Connecticut (FIC) claims that the policy violates the First Amendment by prohibiting religious displays. On Monday, First Liberty Institute sent a demand letter to the Connecticut Joint Committee on Legislative Management, arguing that the policy allows for displays unless they are "religious in nature." The FIC had applied to exhibit a Nativity scene but was denied due to concerns that it could be seen as government endorsement of Christianity. Roger Byron, senior counsel for First Liberty Institute, stated that the policy infringes on First Amendment rights, asserting that barring religious viewpoints from public forums violates the Free Speech Clause. Andrew Lelling, lead counsel for the FIC, emphasized the need for equal treatment for religious viewpoints. The Joint Committee on Legislative Management has not yet commented on the matter.
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Connecticut religious group challenges Capitol Nativity display ban
The Family Institute of Connecticut is challenging a state policy that barred its Nativity scene display in the Capitol, claiming it violates the First Amendment. The group argues that the policy, which prohibits religious displays, constitutes viewpoint discrimination. Legal representatives are advocating for equal treatment of religious viewpoints in public forums.
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Connecticut bars Nativity display in state Capitol because it's 'religious,' lawsuit threat says
Connecticut religious group challenges Capitol Nativity display ban