Christians in deep red state proudly tote crosses at July 4th parade after lawmakers tried to ban display of religious symbols
Christians in Idaho, who were banned from wearing religious symbols during the Fourth of July parade, showed up en masse on Thursday, proudly carrying their crosses.
Visitors to the Independence Day Parade in Coeur d’Alene, a state painted dark red, could see crosses proudly waving alongside the star-spangled banner.
While some carried the cross next to Old Glory, others wore T-shirts with the symbol of the cross on them.
The locals’ action came after the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce reversed a policy banning the use of religious symbols during the Fourth of July parade.
New rules had been introduced banning and declaring as unacceptable “symbols associated with specific political movements, religions or ideologies”.
Those attending the Independence Day parade in Coeur d’Alene in the deep red state could be seen proudly waving crosses alongside the star-spangled banner
Linda Coppess, Chair and CEO of the Chamber, told the Coeur d’Alene Press that the policy change was implemented after they received complaints last year.
According to Coppess, the chamber received more than 50 complaints last year about signs and symbols that were considered offensive.
These included Confederate flags, derogatory illustrations, harsh political language and shocking images.
To address that, the chamber consulted with national organizations to bring about a policy change, Coppess said.
She said: ‘The original policy was not intended to isolate individuals or be seen as an anti-religious policy.
“Our goal with this policy was simple: create an environment where everyone feels welcome and respected.”
There were already protests against the policy in the city last weekend, but it was quickly changed last week.
Coppess opposed the policy, saying: ‘As someone of deep faith, the recent events and allegations are particularly heartbreaking.
While some carried crosses next to Old Glory, others wore T-shirts with the symbol of the cross on them
New rules that had been introduced had banned ‘symbols associated with specific political movements, religions or ideologies’ and labelled them unacceptable
“Our goal for the Fourth of July Parade is to create a celebration that honors our military, promotes family fun, and is respectful to all in attendance.
“This year we have implemented guidelines to ensure we honor the United States military and do not open the door to offensive displays.
“While we understand the meaning of different symbols, we want to keep the parade attractive to everyone.”
Paul Van Noy, president of the Kootenai County Ministerial Association and pastor of Candlelight Christian Fellowship Church, said he was pleased with the turnaround.
He told the outlet: “All religious symbols should be allowed.Everyone should have the right to fair and appropriate representation.’
Before the change, permitted signage consisted only of slogans such as “Happy Independence Day,” messages honoring the unit, and other messages honoring veterans, active military personnel, and first responders.
According to the chamber, failure to comply with the rules would have resulted in ‘immediate removal from the parade’.