COLUMBUS–Today, the United States Supreme Court released a landmark 6-3 decision in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis, reaffirming that the government cannot force artists, or anyone, to say something that they don't believe.

The case centered around Lorie Smith, a graphic and web designer in Colorado who wanted to expand her business to include wedding sites, and whether the state government could force her to use her artistic skills to speak messages that celebrate same-sex weddings. With the help of Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), Lorie went to court to defend her right to free speech.

The following statement is from Matt Stiers, Executive Director of the Christian Business Partnership, a partner of Center for Christian Virtue:

"We are privileged to live in a nation that has prized freedom and diversity of ideas since its conception. Today's Supreme Court decision in 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis rightly reaffirms the First Amendment freedoms guaranteed to every American by our Constitution.

"Today's decision also helps ensure our marketplace stays free, fair, and open to all, protecting business owners from coercion by overreaching, activist governments.

"Thanks to the bravery of Lorie Smith and the work of our friends at Alliance Defending Freedom, business owners of every faith can continue operating and growing their businesses in alignment with their convictions."

To learn more about this case, check out this episode of The Narrative with Jake Warner, Senior Counsel at ADF.

For more information, contact CCV at 513-733-5775 or contact@ccv.org.

As Ohio’s largest Christian public policy organization, Center for Christian Virtue seeks the good of our neighbors by advocating for public policy that reflects the truth of the Gospel. 

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