John,
The First Amendment and artistic expression was under attack again—this
time in none other than Phoenix, Arizona.
After opening the Phoenix-based art studio Brush & Nib, Christian owners
Joanna Duka and Breanna Koski soon discovered that their business of
hand-crafted invitations would be required by a city ordinance to create
art that was "inconsistent with their values." Duka and Koski protested the
ordinance as a violation of their religious consciousness.
According to the Alliance Defending Freedom
(ADF), the Phoenix law "prevented Brush & Nib from explaining to
customers and the public why they could only create art consistent with
their beliefs about marriage."
Sure enough, Joanna and Breanna soon found themselves facing hefty fines
and jail time for standing up for their beliefs. Each
day Joanna and Breanna adhered to their religious
beliefs, they faced the penalty of up to $2,500 and six months
in jail.
"They didn't want to go to jail and pay $2,500 for
each day they failed to comply," ADF said. "They didn't
want to close the business they poured so much into. But the alternative
wasn't doable. They could not compromise their artistic and religious
beliefs. They could not accept sitting down in their studio and
hand-drawing artwork that contradicted who they are and what they hold
dear."
To be clear, Joanna and Breanna did not dictate their way of life to
others.This case perfectly illustrates progressive intolerance. Demanding
affirmation through coercion will always be an assault on Americans'
civil liberties and First Amendment rights.
Freedom won.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kelli Ward
Chairman
Republican Party of Arizona
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