SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) - A group that invokes the name Satan as a metaphor for opposing religious tyranny has sued Scottsdale.
The Satanic Temple says the city discriminated against Satanists by denying them an opportunity to give the opening prayer at City Council meetings.
The lawsuit filed Monday asks a federal judge to find the city in violation of the First Amendment.
Satanist Michelle Shortt had been scheduled to give the prayer before a July 2016 council session.
But the city canceled it, saying it would keep with tradition in allowing prayer only from groups with substantial ties to Scottsdale.
City spokeswoman Kelly Corsette said Tuesday that Scottsdale believes it's in line with the Constitution.
The Satanic Temple says it wasn't asked about community ties when applying to give the prayer.
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