Judge freezes Chicago park ordinance on free-speech grounds

CHICAGO (AP) - A federal judge this week blocked the city of Chicago from enforcing an ordinance that restricts religious groups from evangelizing and others from campaigning in the downtown Millennium Park on grounds it may violate free-speech protections.

The freeze ordered by Judge John Robert Blakey on Thursday is temporary and will stay in place at least until a lawsuit brought by several Wheaton College students plays out. The injunction could become permanent in a final ruling later or after a trial.

The Chicago Tribune reports that the college's Chicago Evangelism Team had gone to the popular park every Friday to evangelize and distribute free religious literature. Park security told them they couldn't hand out religious materials or preach because of the city rules.

The plaintiffs say the ordinance violates both freedom of speech and the free exercise of religion. In his ruling, Blakey expressed sympathy for their position on First Amendment. The city has argued that the park isn't a traditional public forum, like a public sidewalk or street, and so the restrictions are constitutional.

The next status hearing in the case is set for March 4.