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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
| State Rep. Jaret Gibbons
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Gibbons supports Ellwood City Nativity
HARRISBURG, Dec. 1 – State Rep. Jaret Gibbons, D-Lawrence, today issued the following statement in support of the decision by Ellwood City’s elected officials to erect holiday decorations that include a nativity display.
“Ellwood City is a wonderful community that respects the freedoms and independence of all individuals and religions. I am proud to have been born and raised in this hardworking and faithful community.
“As Ellwood City’s state representative, I respect and support the decision of the local elected government officials to erect a holiday display that includes both secular and religious symbols of the holiday season, including the nativity. This community tradition dates back more than half a century, and I strongly believe it is both appropriate and constitutional.
“The people of Ellwood City should be allowed to peacefully celebrate the holiday season in a manner that properly honors the array of religious beliefs and holiday traditions within our community without disruptions from out-of-state influences.
“For more than 50 years, this joyous time of peace and goodwill has brought people together and made our community strong. It should be permitted to continue.
“The people of Ellwood City believe in the freedom of speech and religion, therefore I strongly encourage any area resident with concerns about this holiday tradition to bring them to the attention of our local elected officials so they can be properly addressed at the local level.”
Gibbons sent an open letter in support of Ellwood City to the Freedom From Religion Foundation which is available on his website at www.pahouse.com/Gibbons.
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