Public official to call for revamped policy on Christmas decorations in New York

Public official to call for revamped policy on Christmas decorations in New York City

A city councilman from New York City is challenging that city's policy that allows and encourages Muslim, Jewish and secular decorations in public schools during Christmas, but does not permit Christian symbols. Councilman Tony Avella will unveil a resolution this weekend that would change public school policy regarding the display of Christmas decorations.

In the past, New York City schools have allowed a Menorah, the Star and Crescent, and an evergreen tree to be displayed. However, officials have said a crèche, or nativity scene, is not allowed. Brian Rooney, an attorney with the Thomas More Law Center, says the case is a clear example of hostility toward religion -- and the Constitution, specifically the First Amendment, prohibits that, he asserts.

He contrasts that constitutionally guaranteed right with the stipulations outlined in the city policy. "It allows for other religious symbols, to include the Menorah and the Star and Crescent," the attorney explains. "It specifically disallows for a Christian symbol and only allows for a secular symbol, which does not signify Christmas at all."

Rooney believes that the nativity scene is the proper image that signifies Christmas, as the birth of a historical, religious figure: Jesus Christ.

"And that's the symbol that we as Christians want to be represented by, and not [by] some evergreen tree. We're not celebrating the birth of an evergreen tree," he states. "It's time that bureaucrats in the Department of Education and the city realize that, and the will of the people is going to be shown."

Avella's resolution was prompted by the refusal earlier this year of the U.S. Supreme Court to hear the case. Rooney expects the resolution to be adopted in time for this year's Christmas season.