Christian kids show kicked from public square

Christian kids show kicked from public square
Officials, worried about religious content, back down after lawsuit filed

After its attorney warned that "government officials do not have the right to single out Christian groups for discrimination," a New Jersey community has reversed its previous denial and now granted a Christian ministry the right to perform in the town's public square.

Members of a local Christian ministry called Care and Share wanted to hold an event at a public square in South Orange, N.J., but were told only non-religious groups can use the space.

Attorneys tied to the Alliance Defense Fund intervened.

"Government officials do not have the right to single out Christian groups for discrimination," said attorney Demetrios Stratis. "We are very pleased that village officials have decided to remedy this situation and allow Christian organizations the same opportunity as other groups to use public facilities."

The Christian group – which performs skits, live music and puppet shows for children – was denied access to the square despite permission given to groups such as Road Devils, NJ.

The Road Devils event included live bands using vulgar language with electronic sound equipment, female mannequins dressed only in underwear and public consumption of alcohol, ADF said.

ADF attorneys filed the lawsuit Feb. 14, and Thursday village officials backed down, promising they would never again discriminate against a religious group on the basis of its viewpoint.