A controversial holiday display erected by The Satanic Temple (TST) near the New Hampshire State Capitol was destroyed last week following several vandalism incidents. The display, a statue of Baphomet, was placed on Concord city property near a traditional Nativity scene. Now, Democratic state Rep. Ellen Read suggests that TST should be allowed to reinstall the display.
"The vandalism and hatefulness shouldn’t go unanswered," Read stated, according to the Catholic News Agency. Read, who identifies as a TST member but hasn't actively participated in the group, initially proposed the idea of the Baphomet display. She argued for its inclusion alongside the Catholic Nativity scene to represent diverse viewpoints.
TST's website outlines its mission to promote benevolence and empathy, challenge authoritarianism, and advocate for common sense and justice. The organization cites its involvement in various advocacy efforts, including opposing corporal punishment in schools, advocating for religious representation on public property, and protecting reproductive rights.
The Concord City Council approved TST's permit for the display to avoid potential First Amendment legal challenges. Mayor Byron Champlin expressed his disapproval, arguing that TST's request wasn't motivated by religious pluralism but by a political agenda. He criticized the organization for exploiting the Concord community to advance its national aims.
The city, in a statement, explained its decision, citing the First Amendment and the risk of litigation. Concord chose to allow the display rather than ban all holiday displays. The City Council plans to review the policy regarding unattended holiday displays at City Plaza next year.
Read criticized the mayor's stance, suggesting he lacked understanding of the community's diverse beliefs. A video posted on Facebook showed TST representatives unveiling the statue, reciting the group's tenets, and chanting "Hail Satan!"
Concord Deputy Police Chief John Thomas confirmed an ongoing investigation into the vandalism. TST has installed similar holiday displays near government properties in other states, often alongside Christian exhibits. These displays have also been subject to vandalism, highlighting the ongoing tension surrounding religious expression in public spaces.
