Fowler v. Rhode Island, 345 U.S. 67 (1953)

Fowler v. Rhode Island


No. 340


Argued February 3, 1953
Decided March 9, 1953
345 U.S. 67

APPEAL FROM THE SUPREME COURT OF RHODE ISLAND

Syllabus

A municipal ordinance which is so construed and applied as to penalize a minister of Jehovah’s Witnesses for preaching at a peaceful religious meeting in a public park, although other religious groups could conduct religious services there with impunity, violates the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the Federal Constitution. Pp. 67-70.

80 R.I. ___, 91 A.2d 27, reversed.

Appellant’s conviction for violation of a municipal ordinance was affirmed by the State Supreme Court. 80 R.I. ___, 91 A.2d 27. On appeal to this Court under 28 U.S.C. § 1257(2), reversed and remanded, p. 70.