The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Massachusetts has called on Quincy officials to cancel plans to build two 10-foot bronze statues of patron saints at the city’s new Public Safety building. The statues of St. Michael the Archangel and St. Florian, the patron saints of police and firefighters, have sparked controversy over the separation of church and state. The ACLU argues that the statues convey a message of Quincy being a Catholic community and may make non-Catholics feel unwelcome. Despite opposition, Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch has defended the decision, stating that it was ultimately his authority to make such choices.
The statues, costing $850,000, have faced scrutiny from residents and city councilors, with some arguing that they symbolize protection, justice, bravery, and sacrifice for first responders. While city officials like Quincy Police Chief Mark Kennedy support the statues, others have criticized the decision, leading to a heated debate at a recent City Council meeting. Overall, the controversy highlights a clash between religious symbolism and government representation in a public space.
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