After an uproar over a decision to eliminate the nativity scene from the Grande Illumination downtown holiday event, officials said Thursday afternoon they found a way to retain it.
The nativity, which was initially cut because of several complaints about the religious depiction, will be on "private property" within the festival site, it was stated.
Other faiths will be invited to have their own displays.
Officials of the Chattanooga Downtown Partnership said, "For over 20 years our community has gathered at the waterfront to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season.
The Grand Illumination has become a Chattanooga tradition for more than 20,000 people annually. It has always been the intent of the Chattanooga Downtown Partnership to create events throughout the year that are inclusive of Chattanooga-area residents – and our visitors – of all cultures and creeds.
"In this morning’s Chattanooga Times Free Press it was reported that the live nativity scene, which has been a part of the annual Grand Illumination, would be eliminated from this year’s event.
"This past year, we received complaints from groups and individuals who expressed concern that the nativity scene was a non-inclusive part of the event. These comments rekindled our own concerns about the legality of conducting such displays on public property. Based upon these factors, we decided to eliminate the nativity scene.
"We regret the distress this decision has caused. Clearly, many people in this community feel the nativity scene has been an important part of the Grand Illumination, and we want to be respectfully responsive to those who have expressed concern about its elimination.
"There are many precedents for civil actions against communities presenting religious displays on public properties. We think it is an unfortunate reality that civic celebrations have become the focus of first amendment suits. At the same time, we want to respect the diversity of our community and, where possible, celebrate that diversity.
"We believe we have found a solution that will enable us to continue this tradition and to do it in a way that avoids any legal entanglements, and most importantly allows us to be respectful and inclusive of our diverse community faith groups.
"We are identifying private property in the event area on which to present the live nativity scene. We have extended an invitation to Soddy-Daisy First Baptist Church to continue the presentation there, and they have accepted. At the same time, we are extending invitations to other faith communities to celebrate their holiday traditions at the Grand Illumination.
"We hope the Grand Illumination event will continue to be a place where all our citizens can come together to enjoy the riverfront, the season and one another’s company."