How sad, that a symbol so deeply rooted in our community way of life, should become a focal point for a few individuals who would push their ideological views and interpretations upon a majority. While the First Amendment of our Constitution allows these people the freedom to be heard, the First Amendment also allows that “Congress shall make no law prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”

But in this case, is it really just a religious symbol we are looking at or is it something much deeper? We are a country, born of faith-based traditions and beliefs that are deeply instilled in the very fabric of our society. America is a country settled by the people of many different nationalities and religions whose traditions and beliefs followed them here. We have evolved into the melting pot of the world.

We are actually a nation born of religious tolerance due in large part to the persecution of our forefathers. In a reflection of our beliefs, our national currency and numerous government buildings and monuments are adorned with the words “In God We Trust,” which we as a nation have embraced since the begining.

To the majority of the people in Holmen, the cross and star up on Star Hill are not merely simple religious symbols; rather, they are symbols of where we come from as a people and a reflection on the traditions and beliefs that helped shape our current way of life.

For over four decades, the star and cross have looked over our community as a daily reminder of our origins and those traditions and values that we as a community share and hold dear. They have stood there all this time due to the fact that a majority of our citizens see it as an affirmation of the principles and traditions that helped build this village and this country.

How sad that the views of a minority should hold sway over and threaten the beliefs and traditions of a majority.