Virginia Courthouse First-Come, First-Served Display Policy Produces Eclectic Scene

As described in a recent Washington Post piece, this year's holiday season display at the Loudon County Courthouse in Virginia features an eclectic montage that includes a Christmas tree, three manger scenes, five displays from local atheists, and a mannequin tableau featuring Luke Skywalker as "the chosen one" of Star Wars. One notable element is a large "letter from Jesus," penned by a member of the Northern Virginia Atheists. The letter begins, “Dear Christians, It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking MY name out of the season," and goes on to present what its author saw as an appeal for tolerance and civility during the frequently contentious December holiday season.

In 2009, the county's Courthouse Grounds and Facility Committee decided to prohibit unattended displays outside the facility, but the county Board of Supervisors, facing a wave of resident outrage, instead adopted a policy permitting up to ten groups to present displays on the courthouse grounds on a first-come, first-served basis.

JFB