The residents of Couer d’Alene, Idaho were shocked to discover that the Chamber of Commerce had chosen to prohibit religious symbols and flags in the yearly Independence Day procession. Witness the events that unfolded during the parade in the video below.
“America was founded as a Christian nation. So why is one local Independence Day parade restricting Christian expression for participants,” asked Titus Folks, vice president of the Idaho Family Policy Center. “We were shocked when we learned that the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce recently changed their policies to prohibit religious symbols and flags in their annual 4th of July parade.”
Folks correctly pointed out that “it’s impossible to celebrate America without fully embracing our nation’s – and our state’s – Christian heritage.”
“Christians should be free to respectfully proclaim the Gospel, the Cross of Christ, and the Christian flag,” he wrote in a scathing message to the Chamber. “This is ESPECIALLY true at celebrations of the United States of America.”
The residents expressed their confusion over the Chamber’s insensitive announcement.
“This isn’t San Francisco,” one resident wrote. “This is North Idaho, and many of us live here because we honor the traditional American values that seem to be disappearing elsewhere. With all due respect – you really should be in better touch with the community you serve.”
The ban imposed by the Chamber of Commerce was later lifted due to the backlash from the local community. Chamber president Linda Coppess clarified that their decision was not intended to alienate anyone or to be seen as anti-religious. However, it is hard to reconcile her statement with the fact that the policy specifically targeted religious entities. The Chamber’s attempt at an apology only managed to upset more individuals.
“This year, we introduced guidelines to ensure we honor America’s military and not open the door to offensive displays,” she wrote. “While we understand the significance of various symbols, we intend to keep the parade welcoming for everyone.”
It suggests that a cross or any religious symbol could be seen as offensive. The Idaho Tribune, a rapidly expanding conservative news outlet, commended individuals for attending the parade with American flags and wooden crosses.
“We the People have had enough of the anti-Christ tyrants that are in control of Coeur d’Alene. CHRIST IS KING,” the newspaper wrote on X.
“As a person of deep faith, the recent events and accusations have been especially heartbreaking,” Coppess said. “Our goal for the Fourth of July American Heroes Parade is to create a celebration that honors our military, fosters family-friendly fun, and respects all attendees.”
