The absence of a nativity scene in Plainville this year has ignited a political controversy, as the display has been a local tradition for over 25 years. The Plainville Republicans criticized town officials for their decision not to erect the nativity scene in Veterans Memorial Park, claiming that the Democratic leadership on the Town Council initiated a review of the display without input from the council itself.
In posts on social media, the Republicans expressed their disappointment, stating, “The town was not asked by anyone to review the policy nor have there been any complaints about the nativity scene.” The posts received nearly 500 reactions and close to 150 comments, with many users voicing support for the nativity scene and questioning its absence this year.
The controversy began when Town Attorney Morris Borea was prompted to offer a legal opinion regarding the nativity scene. He explained that this inquiry followed discussions about the town library’s plan to display a Christmas tree. “I was asked for a legal opinion, and the research indicated to me that the scene by itself would likely raise a serious issue with regard to the Establishment Clause under the First Amendment,” Borea stated.
He elaborated, “If you have just a nativity scene that’s put up by town personnel on town property, I think there’s a serious legal question there.” Borea, who identifies as Catholic, acknowledged his personal appreciation for nativity scenes but stressed the legal implications of displaying one on public property.
In a letter dated December 21 and made public through a Freedom of Information request, Borea informed Town Manager Michael Paulhus that a “standalone nativity on town property strongly suggests government endorsement of Christianity.” He emphasized that the long-standing tradition does not exempt the town from potential constitutional challenges, citing several Supreme Court rulings.
Borea outlined two possible options for the town: incorporating the nativity scene into a larger, secular holiday display or creating a public forum policy that would allow community groups to place holiday displays on town property, ensuring equal treatment. “Plainville may display the nativity scene this year only if it is part of a broader, inclusive holiday display or under a neutral public forum policy,” he concluded.
The Republicans suggested that a compromise could have involved adding secular decorations alongside the nativity scene, thereby preserving the display. They indicated that the Town Council is expected to convene to establish a policy regarding holiday displays in the future.
Requests for comment sent to the Town Council and Paulhus received no immediate responses. The chair of the Plainville Democratic Town Committee also did not reply to inquiries for comment.
This situation highlights the ongoing debate over the separation of church and state in public displays, as communities navigate tradition and legal boundaries. The discussion in Plainville mirrors broader conversations occurring across various regions regarding religious symbols in public spaces.
