Federal Judge Allows Lawsuit Against Broward County School Board to Proceed
A federal judge has allowed a lawsuit to move forward against the Broward County School Board over its refusal to allow banners that said “Satan Loves the First Amendment” at two schools.
Lawsuit Filed by Activist Timothy “Chaz” Stevens
Activist Timothy “Chaz” Stevens, a minister of The Church of Satanology and Perpetual Soiree, filed the lawsuit alleging violations of the First Amendment and two Florida laws.
Claims of Unequal Treatment
The school board filed a motion to dismiss the case, but U.S. District Judge Robert Scola on Thursday issued an 11-page order that allowed Stevens to pursue the First Amendment claim and a claim under a state law known as the Florida Religious Freedom Restoration Act.
Background of the Case
In October 2023, Stevens requested to put the banners at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and West Glades Middle School, but the school board later rejected the requests, Scola wrote. The order said the school board between December 2023 and September 2024 allowed religious organizations, such as Calvary Chapel and Potter’s House, to display banners at West Glades Middle School and Coral Springs High School. Stevens alleges “unequal treatment,” Scola wrote.
Next Steps
A trial is scheduled for March 10.
Conclusion
The lawsuit against the Broward County School Board is a significant development in the ongoing debate over the limits of free speech in public schools. The case highlights the tension between the protection of religious expression and the need to ensure that public schools remain neutral and inclusive environments for all students.
FAQs
Q: What is the lawsuit about?
A: The lawsuit is about the Broward County School Board’s refusal to allow banners that said “Satan Loves the First Amendment” at two schools.
Q: Who filed the lawsuit?
A: Activist Timothy “Chaz” Stevens, a minister of The Church of Satanology and Perpetual Soiree, filed the lawsuit.
Q: What are the claims being made?
A: Stevens is alleging violations of the First Amendment and two Florida laws, claiming that the school board is engaging in unequal treatment by allowing religious organizations to display banners at schools while rejecting his request.
Q: What is the next step in the case?
A: A trial is scheduled for March 10.
