re: #22 Daniel Ballard

I agree, I just don’t happen to think you can force the evolution of consciousness or tolerance (at least not without an armed escort to keep the peace). The article says:

The judge, however, said Santa Monica proved that it banned the displays not to squash religious speech but because they were becoming a drain on city resources, destroying the turf and obstructing ocean views. Churches can set up unattended displays at 12 other parks in the city with a permit and can leaflet, carol and otherwise present the Christmas story in Palisades Park when it is open, she said.

Try to picture, if you will, Eid al-Fitr at the end of Ramadan (it’s technically only 1 day, but celebrations typically last around 3-4 days): Imagine 3 days where a bunch of Muslims have set up Islamic displays in said public park and are reciting the Qur’an, passing out leaflets explaining Islam and/or calling people to convert, etc. If there wasn’t a freak-out of epic proportions over something like that, I’d be amazed.