7th Circuit Hears Arguments On Christmas Pageant Challenge

The U.S. 7th Circuit Court of Appeals yesterday heard oral arguments in Freedom From Religion Foundation v. Concord Community Schools. (Audio of oral arguments).  In the case, an Indiana federal district court upheld the constitutionality of a modified version of the annual Christmas Spectacular put on by an Indiana high school.  Plaintiffs had challenged the pageant under the Establishment Clause. The court had previously issued a preliminary injunction against the 2014 and proposed 2015 versions that included a live Nativity Scene and Bible passages. (See prior posting.)  Subsequently the court awarded nominal damages and a declaratory judgment as to the earlier versions. (See prior posting.)  Courthouse News Service reports in more detail on yesterday's oral arguments.