The Satanic Temple of West Michigan invoked to start Tuesday’s Ottawa County Board of Commissioners meeting, marking a controversial moment in local government.
Results for: Ottawa County
Ottawa County voters have a complete view of candidates running for the county’s Board of Commissioners seats. A total of 33 candidates are vying for the 11 districts, with each district featuring at least one Democrat and one Republican candidate. The August primary election will narrow down the Republican candidates to one for each district, as eight of the 11 districts have multiple Republican candidates. This election marks a significant increase in candidates compared to previous years, with 26 candidates filing in 2022 and an average of 14 to 16 candidates filing in recent elections.
The Satanic Temple of West Michigan’s presence at an Ottawa County Board meeting ignited a protest, filling the foyer with demonstrators. Protesters chanted religious slogans and displayed signs against the group, an atheist organization that advocates for empathy and benevolence. Despite their lack of belief in Satan or God, The Satanic Temple sought to give the opening prayer to express religious freedom, following a policy change that allows pastors to speak on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Satanic Temple of West Michigan’s planned prayer at an Ottawa County board meeting has sparked controversy, with opponents urging attendees to engage in religious expression to counter the invocation.