ACLU-NJ v. Township of Wall, N.J.The Becket Fund routinely defends governments that come under the attack of Establishment Clause lawsuits for recognizing their religious communities and individuals in the public square. The case ACLU-NJ v. Township of Wall was the second such case we took up in New Jersey. In their continuing efforts to remove religious aspects from local cultural celebrations, the ACLU chapter in New Jersey filed a lawsuit similar to ACLU v. Schundler against the Township of Wall, N.J. just a day after losing the Schundler case.
The Township (pop. 20,244), which describes itself as “a progressive community with rural country charm,” was sued by the ACLU because it included a Nativity Scene in its Christmas celebrations. The Nativity Scene was a part of traditional Christmas celebrations, accompanied by a Christmas Tree, poinsettias, and other decorations. The Becket Fund successfully defended the Township at both the district and appellate level.
Media Coverage:
Wall holiday suit dismissed (Asbury Park Press, April 4, 2001)
Court orders dismissal of ACLU lawsuit seeking to bar holiday display (Associated Press, by Jeffrey Gold, April 3, 2001)
Civil rights group challenges another N.J. holiday display (Associated Press, as posted on First Amendment Center website, February 25, 1999)
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