The justification is that the installation of these biblical scenes on public roads violates religious freedom and the constitutional principles of the secular State.
The idea of eliminating the presence of Christmas nativity scenes in the street began two years ago when citizens of Chocholá, Yucatán filed an appeal against the demarcation authorities for installing a nativity scene in the municipal palace. This was financed with public money. Amparo 216/2022 is currently under review.
The lawsuit asks that the authorities be prohibited from financing and placing religious symbols on public roads.
The case has already attracted the attention of some organizations and religious faithful, who have expressed through social networks that it is an “attack against religious freedom.” However, there are also users who applaud the action.
What does the Law say?
The Political Constitution of the United Mexican States establishes in its article 130 the historical principle of the separation of the State and the churches. In addition, the Law of Religious Associations and Public Worship states in its article 3 that: “The Mexican State is secular. The same will exercise its authority over all religious manifestations, individual or collective, only in relation to the observance of the laws, conservation of public order and morals, and the protection of the rights of third parties.”
It also states: “The State may not establish any type of preference or privilege in favor of any religion. Nor for or against any church or religious group.”
