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Dear John,
Last week, religious freedom won the day, as First Liberty reached a settlement agreement on behalf of Congregation Toras Chaim (CTC), a small Orthodox Jewish synagogue located right here in our own hometown of Dallas.
After nearly six years of ongoing litigation, city officials have finally recognized the right of CTC and its families to meet and worship in a private, North Dallas home, as well as to continue serving the needs of its surrounding community.
As you might recall, CTC had previously been denied a certificate of occupancy by the City and faced several lawsuits due to “parking issues,” even though tenets of the Orthodox Jewish faith forbid members to drive to their Sabbath services (they must live in close proximity and walk, instead).
In addition to enduring these draining court proceedings, CTC faced outright hate and hostility from their very own neighbors. Someone even went so far as to spray-paint a swastika on the back of the Rabbi’s car!
That’s why we’re so excited to share the news of this critical victory with you. Not only does it bring an end to a very long and arduous legal case, but it also sends a positive signal that Dallas is a diverse city that welcomes CTC and other minority faith groups.
I know many of you’ve been following this case closely for quite a while now, so I want to take this opportunity to say thank you for your support. It’s victories like this that will have a profound and lasting impact for everyone’s religious freedom — and we couldn’t have done it without you!
Of course, there are still more battles to fight...and more battles to be won, like our similar case up in Airmont, NY.
But for now, let’s celebrate this important victory...and let’s keep standing strong as we continue to make more history together this year!
Gratefully,
Kelly
Kelly J. Shackelford, Esq.
President, CEO & Chief Counsel
First Liberty Institute
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