HomeMy Public PortalAboutTOL PR 2011-12-06 holiday displays (revised)
Town of Leesburg
News Release
For Immediate Release (REVISED)
Town of Leesburg Has No Jurisdiction Over Holiday Displays
on Loudoun County Courthouse Lawn
Leesburg, VA (December 6, 2011) – There has been some confusion in the community with
regard to the holiday displays on the Loudoun County Courthouse lawn in downtown Leesburg.
While the Loudoun County Courthouse is located in Leesburg, its grounds are under the
authority of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, not the Leesburg Town Council.
The Town of Leesburg has no jurisdiction or authority over the holiday displays on the
Courthouse lawn. While the Council fully supports freedom of speech and expression, they
regret that the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors’ efforts to provide equal access have
resulted in displays that are disrespectful of certain religious beliefs and have made a mockery
of a holiday season that seeks to promote peace, understanding and good will. Mayor Kristen
Umstattd and Vice Mayor Kevin Wright have issued a joint statement condemning the display
of a crucified Santa on the Courthouse lawn.
Persons wishing to make comments, express concerns or ask questions about the holiday
displays on the Loudoun County Courthouse lawn are encouraged to contact the Loudoun
County Board of Supervisors at BOS@loudoun.gov. All media inquiries should be directed to
the Loudoun County Administration/Public Affairs and Communications Division at 703-777-
0113.
Contact:
Betsy Fields
Research & Communications Manager
bfields@leesburgva.gov
703-771-2734
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