To counter a live nativity scene planned for mid-December on the Michigan state Capitol lawn, a satanic group plans to resurrect its own “snaketivity” display begun in 2014.
At press time a nativity scene that Sen. Ted Cruz’s presidential campaign organized was planned for Dec. 12–13. The Satanic Temple of Detroit is awaiting approval from the Michigan State Capitol Commission to perform its own live display Dec. 19.
The commission would be obligated to approve the snaketivity display as long as it meets guidelines which limit the display’s size and prohibit permanent displays.
The Satanic Temple, a loosely organized national group, is an organization closely aligned with atheist groups in protesting religious displays on public grounds.
“Freedom of speech may be inconvenient, messy and at times offensive, but that is the cost of living in a free country,” said Wendy Day, Michigan state director for Cruz’s campaign. “America was founded on the principles of free speech and freedom of religion. … We don’t have to agree on religious principles to stand together for the right of free speech.”
At a Dec. 2 Rally for Religious Liberty, sponsored by the Christian group Salt & Light Global, a handful of satanists stood quietly at the back of the crowd with a large banner reading, “The Satanic Temple supports religious liberty,” in white letters on a black background.
(RNS)
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