Dear Editor,
On April 20, the Billings Gazette published what I believe is an intentionally misleading front page story concerning a prayer event on MetraPark property. The story and headline were intended to make the reader believe the event, and the participants, violated the law. The reporter’s questioning was focused on whether the group had a contract, insurance or permission to hold the service. Bear in mind that every visit from a national political leader has protesters and none of them get permission or contracts. The commission also allows petition gathering during events without contracts as long as they don’t bother the public.
When organizers called and asked about holding the event, my answers were intended to educate them about the public’s right to protest and their first amendment right to free speech. I also told them they may be asked to disperse given the governor’s Stay at Home order even though 600 protesters were gathering at the same time on the State Capitol grounds in Helena.
The event was a prayer service with Tim Moullet, a great American. He provided a much needed message about hope and faith for people who have lost jobs and are struggling with fear of the unknown with no idea when life will return to normal.
I find it appalling the Gazette would try to create conflict between event participants and the Commission. The same questions were not asked of the Governor after a much larger event on his own lawn in Helena.
John Ostlund,
Yellowstone County
Commissioner
