(The Center Square) – Polly Colvin will be allowed to sell her handmade products, which include religious themes, at Bonduel’s farmers market after the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty advocated on her behalf to sell the products despite farmers market rules.
WILL sent a letter to Bonduel after reading the farmers market rules, which says that the sale of politically or religiously affiliated merchandise is prohibited.
The policy violates the First Amendment related to both freedom of speech and free exercise of religion, WILL wrote.
Bonduel responded quickly with a letter stating that Colvin’s “Life With Polly Anna LLC” is free to apply and sell merchandise at the farmers market.
“We appreciate and understand your concern regarding the language in the Village’s market rules and regulations,” wrote Bonduel Clerk-Treasurer Michelle Maroszek. “These rules were originally modeled after those of another local farmer’s market whose program has been successful. The specific section you referenced will be reviewed by the Village Board at its next meeting.”
WILL said that it intends to closely monitor the details of the upcoming village meetings to ensure that the rules are changed.
“The Village of Bonduel’s farmers market restriction is a blatant violation of the First Amendment, which protects both freedom of speech and the free exercise of religion,” WILL Deputy Counsel Lucas Vebber said in a statement. “I am glad our team was able to secure a quick win for our client here so that Polly and others can share their hard work freely. Our team will continue to monitor the actions of the Village of Bonduel to make sure these restrictions are formally removed as soon as possible.”
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Maroszek wrote that both “Growing with Him Farms,” which markets religious literature as well as sells produce, and “Lost Leg Bakery,” whose logo features religious symbols, have previously sold products at the farmers market.
“I’m so grateful for the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Library and their willingness to help preserve the rights of all Americans, no matter how small the issue might seem,” Colvin said in a statement. “It matters a great deal to small business owners!”