COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho — The Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber on Monday reversed a new policy that banned religious symbols from its Fourth of July parade.
“The original policy was not meant to isolate individuals or be considered an anti-religious policy,” wrote Linda Coppess, chamber president and CEO in response to questions from The Press.
Under parade regulations adopted by the chamber board this year, “Symbols associated with specific political movements, religions, or ideologies” were unacceptable.
Coppess wrote that in the past, the chamber received numerous complaints about displays that people found offensive, including “Confederate flags, derogatory illustrations, harsh politically-based language, and graphic photographs.”
Coppess wrote that last year alone, she received over 50 complaints about different signage and symbols that were deemed offensive.
To address those concerns, the chamber consulted national organizations to ensure its guidelines were transparent and fair, she wrote.
“Our intention with this policy was simple: to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and respected,” Coppess wrote.
To read the full story from our partners, the Coeur d'Alene Press, click this link.
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