With Christmas knocking at the doorstep, holiday decorations that enable one to soak in the spirit of the season are adorning the streets. However, at the Michigan Capitol grounds, an unusual scene is unfolding as Satanists and Christians fight it out over Snaketivity versus Nativity Scene displays.
Visitors to the Michigan Capitol will be able to see two Christmas scene interpretations this holiday season - the "Snaketivity Scene" courtesy of the Satanic Temple and the classic Nativity Scene from a Grand Ledge Republican.
The Satanic Temple's Detroit chapter has put up the controversial "Snaketivity Scene" which depicts a snake offering the "Revolt of the Angels" book as a present. The 3 feet by 3 feet display shows the snake entwined around the Satanic cross.
While the name maybe a tad misleading, the Satanic Temple does not promote Satan worship, but compassion and individuality.
"I think that this holiday season is a time of year that is celebrated in many different ways. Having our government endorse one singular viewpoint or method of celebrating the season is problematic when we have a diverse community of people in Michigan," said Jex Blackmore, spokesperson for the Satanic Temple. "We wanted to add to that conversation by having our representation of how we may celebrate this time of year."
The display, per Blackmore, is in opposition of the stand taken by the GOP-led legislature.
Post an hour of Blackmore's group setting up their Christmas scene, Senator Rick Jones also put up his Nativity Scene, which featured Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus on the opposite side, in the front portion of the Capitol lawn. According to Jones, the Satanic Temple intended their display to be "offensive."
"They could have put theirs up in July or April or sometime. They didn't need to put it up in the Christmas season," noted Jones. "That's OK. We're going to ignore them. I'm not afraid of the snake people. I'm sure that Jesus Christ is not afraid."
The permits for the Satanic Temple and Jones' displays run through Tuesday and Friday, respectively.
