Investigation Concludes Jewett Nativity Scene Clearly Constitutional

Liberty Institute Attorneys Respond to Freedom From Religion Foundation Demand Letter

JEWETT, Texas, March 18, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, Liberty Institute on behalf of the City of Jewett, TX, concluded that a nativity scene located in the City's Eagle Scout Park holiday display is constitutional. Following a thorough investigation, Liberty Institute reported its findings in a letter to the Wisconsin-based Freedom From Religion Foundation, which demanded the removal of the nativity scene in late 2012. To review the letter online, visit: https://www.libertyinstitute.org/document.doc?id=50

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"After a thorough investigation, it is clear that the City's holiday display was well within the established parameters of the First Amendment," said Roger Byron, Liberty Institute attorney. "For future holiday displays in Eagle Scout Park, the City of Jewett can include its nativity scene in a similar manner as the city may choose, secure in the knowledge that its display is well within the parameters of the law."

Liberty Institute's report cited the cases Lynch v. Donnelly and County of Allegheny, which made clear that a city does not violate the Establishment Clause by including a nativity scene in a holiday display that includes both secular and religious symbols.

About Liberty Institute
Liberty Institute is a nonprofit legal group dedicated to restoring and defending religious liberty across America – in our schools, for our churches, and throughout the public arena. Liberty Institute's vision is to reestablish liberty in accordance with the principles of our nation's founders. Visit www.LibertyInstitute.org for more information.

SOURCE Liberty Institute