Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By richards on February 4, 2015

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DALLAS (CBS 11 NEWS) A group of Orthodox Jewish families in a North Dallas neighborhood said they are in the fight for their religious freedom.

The neighborhood homeowners association is now suing the congregation of Toras Chaim for violating residential rules.

The feelings of the Highlands of McKamy neighborhood HOA are scattered throughout the streets. Signs posted in front yards have comments like, Keep Us Residential Only.

About 30 orthodox Jewish families worship here, said David Schneider, while standing outside his home. Its a full on synagogue.

The synagogue is operating just across the street from the home where Schneider lives. He and the HOA have filed a lawsuit.

Theyre breaking the rules. I would expect if the situation was reversed, somebody would do the same thing with me, he said. | Some residents, including Schneider, area also worried about traffic. Honestly, its pretty easy if youre not watching, said Schneider. You see people slide through a stop sign. Im scared someone might get hurt.

Lawyers for the congregation say what is truly being harmed is religious freedom. Liberty Institute attorney Jeff Mateer said, Its a bedrock First Amendment principle that people can worship in their homes.

Mateer said he and his team have filed a motion for dismissal on the ground of the First Amendment. There are lots of activities going on in other homes, but theyve singled out this Jewish group.

Schneider said the lawsuit has nothing to do with religion and he would feel the same way about a school or medical office. I wish them absolutely no ill will, he said, adding, I hope they relocate nearby. [The] closer the better as far as Im concerned.

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HOA Sues Orthodox Jewish Congregation For Operating Synagogue In Home

Category: Synagogue
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