For more than four decades, Christian symbolism was not allowed on public property in Racine, Wisconsin. Not even a banner with the words, “Merry Christmas.” In 2005, a Christmas Coalition of 16 churches was formed to challenge this state of affairs. The Coalition pioneered a protocol to open freedom of religion for all on city-owned public property.
For ten years, a Nativity scene and two Christmas banners have been displayed on Monument Square for an entire month. The Nativity will be in place this year from December 5 to January 7. Volunteers have built, expanded, maintained and improved the Nativity each year: it is now mounted on a flatbed trailer.
The Christmas Coalition has also sponsored an open air, free community Christmas program, handing out free coffee, hot chocolate and donated cookies during the special music and sing-along. Having the Nativity on public display has been uplifting, unifying, and a positive community experience. Thousands of local citizens and visitors have come to enjoy the Nativity.
Now, as the volunteers age and the economy continues to squeeze family pocketbooks, it is becoming more difficult to meet the needed budget. Therefore, the ongoing need for new Coalition members, new volunteers, and more financial support is greater than ever.
The Christmas Coalition is a not-for-profit, non-denominational organization open to everyone. The minimum annual budget is $2,500. All donations from any source go 100% for the Nativity - NO salaries.
Donations can be made at any Tri-City National Bank located in the Racine area. Checks made payable to “Christmas Coalition” can be mailed to Tri-City National Bank, 2704 Lathrop Avenue, Racine, W5I 3405. For more information, contact Bob at ccc@wi.net or call 262-639-8820.
Racine resident Bob Wortock has been instrumental in establishing the Christmas Coalition. He remembers, “Attempting to do something that others are not doing is always a challenge. Getting permissions from city officials, finding volunteers, raising money, and constructing a Nativity to be placed on a public square was definitely challenging. It also was -- and continues to be -- an inspiration.
“When a freak gust of wind blew down the Nativity one Sunday morning, crews of volunteers had lifted it back into place, repaired the damage and even improved the display by the end of the day Monday. Even more heartwarming was the response of 300 school children who didn’t want Jesus to leave again for another forty years. Their $300 donation ($1 maximum per child) consisted of coins no larger than a quarter. When ‘God things’ happen, I’m encouraged!
“During the days that the Nativity is on the Square, I often visit to watch the families respond to the display. Many take photos. I am happy to volunteer to take a picture of an entire group. At night, it is rare that the Square is empty for more than a few minutes. Many stop for a moment or two, and interesting conversations develop. One homeless young man asked who the figures in the Nativity were, and why the display was on Monument Square. He nodded, then offered a single word summary: ‘Ichabod.’ I was astonished to learn its meaning.
“Together, we continue our partnership and Christian legacy by displaying the Nativity on our public square. The Christmas Coalition would warmly welcome your joining in the public expression of faith and demonstration of freedom as defined in the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights.”
