Moscow's Free Speech Fight: A Clash of Beliefs

In 2020, a family from Christ Church in Moscow, Idaho, found themselves in a legal tussle with the city. Nathan Wilson and his sons, Rory and Seamus, were accused of sticking controversial stickers on public property. The stickers read, \"Soviet Moscow . . . enforced because we care. \" This happened during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when Christ Church was already at odds with the city over mask mandates and social distancing rules. Now, the Wilsons are suing the city, claiming their free speech rights were violated. They argue that the city went after them because of their religious beliefs. The case is being heard by U. S. District Court Judge B. Lynn Winmill, with the next hearing scheduled for January 21. But here's where things get interesting. Christ Church isn't just a place of worship; it's also a political player. The church has been vocal about its support for a theocracy, a system where religious leaders hold the power. In 2019, it backed candidates for the Latah County Library board, but they lost. In November, the church-affiliated candidates ran for Moscow city offices, but they didn't win by much.The church has deep pockets, too. An outfit called Liberty PAC spent $15, 000 to support these candidates. About a third of that money came from a Christ Church elder. So, if Christ Church ever gained political power, would they respect the rights of others? Their past actions and words suggest otherwise. Christ Church leaders have made it clear they don't support equal rights for women, non-Christians, or the LGBTQ community. They've even said that Muslims wouldn't fit into their ideal society. And let's not forget, they've challenged others' private property rights before. If Christ Church ever took control, would free speech still be a right for all? Given their track record, it's unlikely. The church seems to believe in a very selective application of civil liberties.