US Supreme Court to Hear Free Speech/LGBTQ+ Rights Case

FEB 22 2022·Updated JAN 3 2023

Story

Image credit: AFP/Getty Images [via Axios]

The Facts

SCOTUS has agreed to hear the case of a prospective web designer who wants to refuse service to same-sex couples.
NPR
Lorie Smith has not yet started her wedding website business because Colorado law bars her from discriminating against LGBTQ+ clients.
NPR
Smith argues she shouldn't be forced to convey messages that violate her religious beliefs.
Axios
In 2018, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of a baker from Colorado who refused to make a custom cake for a same-sex wedding. He challenged Colorado law on the basis of religious belief.
Axios
However, the Court did not at the time provide a general ruling on whether services can be denied to the LGBTQ+ community based on assertions of religious freedom.
Axios

Sources Split

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RIGHT

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The Spin

Right narrative

Smith is invoking her First Amendment right to religious freedom. Religious entrepreneurs continue to face anti-religion bias because SCOTUS failed to rule conclusively in 2018. The government shouldn't have the power to silence or compel speech; now is the chance to establish clear precedent in favor of religious liberty.

LifeSite

Left narrative

The Supreme Court's decision to review this case sets a dangerous precedent for violating the civil rights of LGBTQ+ people. With the conservative supermajority put in place by Trump, the court's ruling could further enable anti-LGBTQ+ discrimination as an act of free speech and religious freedom.

The New Republic