Atheist Display Near Nativity Scene in Arlington Heights Vandalized

A sign touting atheist beliefs near a Nativity scene has been vandalized, just like last year, Arlington Heights officials said Monday. Steve Scholten, executive director of the Arlington Heights Park District, told the Chicago Tribune the police department will handle any investigation.

The sign was installed in North School Park by the Freedom from Religion Foundation, which issued a statement saying the display was “severely bent out of shape.”

In 2012, a Christian activist petitioned to put up the Nativity scene. The park district initially declined, but then granted a special-use permit and accepted the Nativity. The Freedom from Religion Foundation then requested its display.