Pacific Justice Institute defended street preacher David Miller in his case against the City of Northfield. According to PJI, Miller was prevented from preaching with a megaphone in public spaces during an open event organized by a private entity. The preacher's case was filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota in early April.
The city has since acknowledged and reaffirmed public access rights at subsequent events, restoring rightful access for religious speech. PJI President Brad Dacus says the case was expedited because all concerned were able to reach an agreement without going to court.
"This was actually worked out as a settlement, so it didn't have to have a final decision by the court," he explains. "We try to get things resolved as quickly as possible, especially when we find a city that is willing to acknowledge that they made a mistake."
According to Dacus, the settlement was more than just a win for a preacher in Minnesota but a significant one for ministries nationwide.
"This victory is a result of a lawsuit that was filed to make sure that this never would happen again. We successfully accomplished that result in the settlement with the city," says the PJI leader. "But make no mistake – it sends a loud signal to cities across the country."
Northfield, he notes, was willing to make long-term policy changes solidifying this won't happen in the future.
