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Satanic display at MN capitol faces vandalism, controversy

By
Published  December 18, 2024 9:46pm CST
Religion
FOX 9

Satanic display draws ire at MN State Capitol

Some lawmakers find a controversial holiday display at the Minnesota State Capitol deeply offensive, while others say it's an exercise of free speech. FOX 9's Mike Manzoni has the full story.

The Brief

    • Minnesota Satanists set up a satanic holiday display inside the Minnesota State Capitol.
    • The display drew sharp criticism from GOP lawmakers.
    • The display will stay up through Dec. 27.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) - A satanic holiday display set up at the Minnesota State Capitol was vandalized as critics speak out against the controversial display.

Satanic display at Minnesota capitol: How it happened

The backstory: Minnesota Satanists set up a holiday display inside the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul on Dec. 13.

The display, which features a phoenix constructed from paper, a hanging pentagram and several small cranes, is located across the hall from the Capitol’s Christmas tree.

The organization, which is a nonprofit that "venerate[s] the literary figure of Satan," secured a permit for the display from the Minnesota Department of Administration.

Minnesota Satanists point out that they do not believe in or worship Satan.

The display was knocked over and vandalized on Tuesday, the group said.

What they're saying

What they're saying: The display drew swift criticism from Republican lawmakers, who said the display was offensive, especially around the holidays.

In a post on X Sunday, Rep. Tom Emmer shared photos of the display and asked: "Is there anything Tim Walz won’t do to insult Minnesotans?"

"The message that they’re sending is, quite literally, to hell with the sacred," said State Rep. Walter Hudson of Albertville. "You have an intentionally profane display very obviously intended to thumb a nose at those of us who are celebrating our holiest days."

In a statement on Wednesday, Gov. Tim Walz’ office said, in part: "The governor does not agree with the display and did not approve it. But the First Amendment means that he does not police speech in the State Capitol."

What Minnesota Satanists are saying

Minnesota Satanists, which declined a request for an interview Wednesday, sent a statement that said, in part: "Our goal was representation, bringing joy and beauty to the community as well as utilizing our First Amendment right. We chose the State Capitol because we wanted to utilize a location that allows for religious plurality…."

What's next?: The display will remain at the State Capitol through Dec. 27.

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