A sign that declares "Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds" was vandalized in an Arlington Heights Park, the Daily Herald reported.
The newspaper reported that police believe the sign was kicked, causing a tear in the center sometime between 4 p.m. Dec. 20 and 5:30 p.m. Dec. 22. The sign was placed in North School Park by the Freedom from Religion Foundation's Metropolitan Chicago Chapter.
The banner also was in the park in 2012 during the holiday season.
In 2012, there was a controversy over whether a nativity scene would be allowed at the park. The scene was allowed and the Arlington Heights Park District has maintained since that because the land is public, groups have a right to express their opinions and beliefs.
A sign at the park states: This publicaly owned property is a public forum for the expression of constitutionally protected free speech. The Arlington Heights Park District does not sponsor, finance or endorse these expressions.
This year the nativity scene and anti-religion banner had been co-existing at the park.
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