Concord admits it had no choice but to include Satanic symbol in holiday display

In December 2024, the city of Concord, New Hampshire, announced that it would permit The Satanic Temple (TST) to install a holiday monument in the city’s town square. This decision came as a response to legal requirements under the First Amendment, which shields religious expressions from government interference. Previously, Concord had faced pressure regarding its policy on holiday displays, compelling the city to choose between allowing all religious representations or excluding certain groups, which could lead to litigation. After deliberating on its legal options, Concord determined it would continue its tradition of allowing unattended holiday displays, subsequently granting TST a permit for the installation. The acceptance of TST’s holiday monument sparked conversation about religious pluralism and equity in public displays during festive periods. The monument, unveiled on a Saturday, depicts Baphomet, a historically significant symbol often misrepresented or misunderstood in public discourse. TST has long been an advocate for the inclusion of their monument in holiday displays, emphasizing unity and countering exclusionary practices typical in various locations. Their activism typically involves both legal challenges and public protests against perceived injustices related to separate religious expressions, particularly when they are not given equal footing with more traditional displays like nativity scenes. Concord's decision highlights the ongoing discussions about religious freedom and diversity in America. While city officials noted the importance of following the law to prevent potential lawsuits, Concord's mayor, Byron Champlin, publicly critiqued the display, suggesting that TST’s motives were not rooted in genuine religious expression but rather an agenda that opposes traditional religious values. This perspective indicates a tension between differing views on secularism, religious representation, and what constitutes legitimate religious expression in public spaces. Ultimately, the installation of TST’s monument in the holiday display reflects an evolving understanding of religious freedom in American law and society. The lack of complete consensus on what religious expression should look like in public spaces signifies a continuing debate that could influence policy changes for years to come. As the city anticipates a review of its holiday display policies in the following year, community members, politicians, and advocacy groups alike will likely continue engaging in discussions about the implications of such display decisions on notions of religious equity and pluralism.