Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court has unanimously ruled to allow the presence of religious symbols in public buildings. The court affirmed that such displays do not conflict with the country’s secular principles, emphasising that symbols like crucifixes reflect Brazil’s cultural history and tradition.

Justice Cristiano Zanin, writing for the court, stated that the presence of religious symbols in public buildings, whether at the federal, state, district, or municipal level, is intended to reflect the cultural tradition of Brazilian society and does not violate the principles of non-discrimination, state secularism, or impartiality. Justice Alexandre de Moraes added that these symbols are acceptable as long as they manifest the historical, cultural, and traditional aspects of Brazil’s majority-Catholic society.

The case, which dates back to 2009, was brought by a Brazilian citizen who argued that the presence of religious symbols in public spaces caused him emotional distress. The Federal Public Ministry supported the plaintiff, seeking the removal of all religious symbols from federal and state buildings. However, the lawsuit was dismissed by both the trial and appeals courts, and a subsequent appeal was also rejected. The Supreme Court’s decision is binding for all federal and state public entities in Brazil.

Also Read: Christ Apostolic Church Theological Seminary Holds 2nd Convocation Ceremony