A Halloween enthusiast’s home has become a hotspot for protests due to the intense nature of his decorations.
Vic Moriana, 34, says his elaborate setup, featuring a bloodied crucifixion scene, a pentagram, and church pews, is purely for fun.
“Some angry neighbors won’t stop me,” he shared with The U.S. Sun.
Moriana invested thousands to create the display in front of his rented home in Metairie, Louisiana. While most neighbors enjoy it, groups of religious protesters find it offensive and have started picketing, considering it blasphemous.
They came with signs that say “anti-Christian art is hate speech, not free speech” and “Catholics reject blasphemous art.” Moriana, who grew up Catholic but no longer attends services, thinks the protesters misunderstand his decorations.
“This display was not supposed to be a jab at religion,” he said. “The religious vibe just tends to be the most scary. “I think Halloween should be scary.” FREEDOM OF SPEECH Moriana also didn’t intend for the decorations to become a statement about free speech.
But he’s now more willing than ever to stand his ground on that front. “I don’t even mind the protesters to be honest with you,” Moriana said. “They’re peaceful.” He respects their freedom of speech and appreciates the attention they’ve brought to his decorations.
“It was people trying to shut this down that blew up the story,” Moriana said. “That’s just more publicity. It’s creating the reverse effect of what they actually want.” At the same time, Moriana doesn’t have much sympathy for their complaints.
Building the decorations has been a good bonding activity for him and his six-year-old daughter. “She knows the difference between fake props that her daddy makes and real things,” Moriana said. “I wish a lot of adults that are freaking out could see things that same way.
“If that’s not your thing, maybe pick a different street to walk down.”
OUTCOMES
Moriana stated that the protesters’ complaints have no legal basis.
“I make sure every year that I’m not breaking any laws or local ordinances,” he explained.
Despite this, his display has led to personal challenges. His girlfriend left after he refused to remove it, and protesters have been reaching out to news stations, trying to create trouble.
These actions affected her job, leading to a temporary separation.
Still, Moriana remains undeterred.
“I’m actually doing what I love,” he said.
“At what point do I have to appease you and stifle my own artistic creativity?”
What do you think I should do? Please let me know in the comments !