The Oklahoma license plate features the Sacred Rain Arrow sculpture by Apache artist Allan Houser (1914-1994). Image from Oklahoma Tax Commission
The Indian image on Oklahoma's license plate does not violate a Christian pastor's right to free speech, the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on Tuesday. The plate features the "Sacred Rain Arrow" sculpture by the late acclaimed Apache artist Allan Houser. Pastor Keith Cressman objected to the image, saying he was forced to display it in violation of his religious beliefs. The 10th Circuit, however, said Cressman failed to show how the image qualified as "speech." The court determined that it merely represents Oklahoma's desire to promote its Native American history to tourists.
The Sacred Rain Arrow bronze by Allan Houser. Photo by Phillip Spears / Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
"Though we conclude that the Native American image is in fact symbolic speech, this does not avail Mr. Cressman’s compelled-speech claim," Judge Joe Heaton wrote for the majority. "That is because the image’s message is one Mr. Cressman has explicitly indicated is not objectionable to him—that is, a message conveying Oklahoma’s Native American culture and heritage." Cressman is not required to use the plate on any of his vehicles. He can purchase a specialty plate, albeit at a higher cost. Turtle Talk has posted briefs from the case, Cressman v. Thompson. Get the Story:
Court puts brakes on license plate lawsuit (The Oklahoman 8/5) 10th Circuit Decision:
Cressman v. Thompson (August 4, 2015) District Court Decision:
Cressman v. Thompson (January 14, 2014) Prior 10th Circuit Decision:
Cressman v. Thompson (June 11, 2013) Related Stories:
Judge dismisses case over Indian image on license plate (1/15)
10th Circuit revives case over Indian image on license plate (6/12)
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