Staley v. Harris County

E. GRADY JOLLY, Circuit Judge:

This appeal raises questions about the constitutionality of a monument, dedicated to a local citizen, located on the grounds of the Harris County Civil Courthouse. The rub is that the monument contains an open Bible. The Plaintiff, Kay Staley, an atheist, argues that the monument violates the Establishment Clause, because its primary purpose and effect are religious. Harris County argues that its purpose and effect are secular- — -to memorialize the life of a worthy citizen whose contributions to the community reflect his Christian principles. We hold that…