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Sioux Center, IA 51250
I have made it pretty clear what I think of how the Centerville city council handled its Monday night meeting that included public discussion on the nativity scene controversy.
I watched the video until the end, and I’m glad I did.
After about 30 minutes of telling Centerville citizens why they can’t have a nativity scene on the square, every member of the 2020 Centerville city council, mayor included, was sworn in on a Bible.
But wait. Waaaaiiiit. Religion and government can’t mix, right? If they want to swear in on a Bible, they should do that on private property, right?
Councilman Jay Dillard brought the anonymous concerns over the nativity scene to city administrator Jason Fraser. Dillard told people on Monday night that as government, if just one person is offended, that one person needs to be represented.
Well, one person from Centerville was there on Monday who said he was a “proud atheist.” He said he did not believe in God or Jesus. Yet Dillard had no problem swearing in on a Bible in front of the atheist.
Hypocritical? Seemingly.
Elitist? Very much so.
The people of Centerville who wanted the nativity scene returned back to the square were told no over fear of legal action. Those people had to keep their private, personal faith out of the public square.
But when it came time for the elected officials to swear in for their public offices, suddenly it was A-OK to display their faith by swearing in on the Bible.
Folks, you can’t make this stuff up.
The Iowa Standard is a free online news source so we can reach as many people as possible. But we need to raise money! We are asking our readers to help support us as a news alternative entering 2020. If you could, please consider showing a sign of support to The Iowa Standard by making a contribution here. Or, you can use Venmo and make a contribution to @Iowa-Standard-2018.
You could also send a check to:
PO Box 112
Sioux Center, IA 51250
