Teaneck, NJ – After decades without a Nativity scene in his hometown, Hector Ferrer's persistence finally paid off in Teaneck, New Jersey. For decades the city of Teaneck displayed a Menorah during the holiday season but refused to display a Nativity scene. Throughout Teaneck's history, until now, there has never been a Nativity scene included with the other Christmas and holiday displays.

In 2005 Hector submitted an application with the city council to have the Nativity scene included with the other decorations. The council immediately rejected his application, claiming the Nativity scene was “too emotional at this time of year.” In 2006 Hector applied once again to the city council and the mayor, asking that the Nativity scene be given equal accommodations to the other secular and religious decorations on display. His request was finally approved with certain conditions that prohibited anyone other than the city to select and purchase the display. After receiving the display, city officials placed the Nativity scene behind a large and imposing bush where it was not visible.

This year Hector appeared before the city council once again, asking the council to relocate the Nativity scene in front of the Christmas tree, where it would be more noticeable. Thankfully, the council members agreed and placed the Nativity scene in front of the Christmas tree. However, the battle was not over. While driving by the display in the evening to show his son, Hector noticed the Nativity scene was the only part of the holiday display in the dark. The Nativity scene was the one display out of ten that was not lighted. Hector confronted the city manager about it, and within a matter of days the Nativity scene was lit.

Liberty Counsel worked with Hector to provide legal counsel. The United States Supreme Court has ruled that government may display a Nativity scene on public property along with the other secular symbols. Refusing to display a Nativity scene, while including other secular symbols of the holiday, may suggest hostility against religion, which the Constitution forbids.

Mathew D. Staver, Founder of Liberty Counsel and Dean of Liberty University School of Law, commented, "The war against Christmas is symbolic of the struggle for freedom. Freedom is not cheap and can never be taken for granted. The majority of Americans love to celebrate Christmas and they no longer are willing to sit back and allow a small minority to secularize this great holiday celebration."