By Diana Correll
The Department of Veterans Affairs unveiled new policies surrounding religious and spiritual symbols in VA facilities, following several incidents where prior policies were “interpreted inconsistently.”
According to the new policy issued Wednesday, religious symbols such as holiday displays may be erected in public areas of VA facilities — provided they are part of a “passive display” that “follows in the longstanding tradition of monuments, symbols, and practices that simply recognize the important role that religion plays in the lives of many Americans.” The VA defines a “passive display” as one on a wall, table, cemetery monument, or other structure.
“Such displays should respect and tolerate differing views and should not elevate one belief system over others,” the policy reads.