MrToast what you're claiming however is that there can be no altering of the symbolism, while simultaneously noting that the symbolism was altered. This represents it in no way except because of tradition, but tradition alone is not realistically a good reason to continue anything.

Now one could argue its origins are the reason for the symbol, since this speaks of the nationalization of Christianity for the first time, somewhat, but we return to the same problem.

And I rather like the idea of a Holiday tree, a gathering place for the exchange of goodwill and unity via gifts, not sparked by a specific religion but instead between all manner of people, during a season which tends to be filled with holidays. Anything wrong with that, then someone could shift Christmas more towards its actual day and we can make this a national holiday.

stebain because as a government entity they need time to do essentially anything, to get the funds, set the display up to specifications, etc. You cannot submit to them that you wanted a creche three days before Christmas and expect them to jump up and make exactly what you want exactly where you want in a way they can get approved.

They did approve essentially all other religious displays for specific times of the year, this man brought it three days before, the Menorah has not been up for a year it was discussed with the state last year.

And no public displays of private displays, should be the rule. Nativity scene is a private display as it is not symbolic to all citizens, an American flag on the other hand can be a public display.

stebain but they cannot go out to secure all symbols and post them themselves, they are the government entity, and believe that the crossing the separation line is in their endorsement, but they can use land for these displays if requested. Do we need Santa out there, or a Dreidel, Menorah, Kinara (Kwanzaa candle-holder), Christmas Tree, Angels, Nativity Scene, Star of David, A family altar (Tet), etc.?

As they note as well, they are walking a thin line for religious displays, they want the legality taken care of to not be endorsing or quelling any other religions, the issue of time and generality plays a massive part here because of that.

ChicoEscuala it is very simple to draw this line, because that is all the rule is, is figuring where to draw it, it is a general rule to live by in those displays. If one can argue that the Ten Commandments are at all important to all American citizens then they would be allowed to stay. However, those lack historical significance to our rules and enough of the population's observances that it is only a private display. An American Flag however, is the symbol of all Americans, and can be.

Of course I will note, the government is a lot more forceful and terrible in their slippery slope. I would rather the ACLU go overboard with removal of icons, though perhaps I am biased since I have none but realistically try not to be, than to err on the side of trying not to offend anyone with their legal action. Some believe public land should not be used, they are not less right, they need to convince me, as those who believe that private funds should be able to be used for public land, or as long as there is equal opportunity then public land and funds are fine to use. Convince me and that is where the line is drawn there.