A Christian baker in California is seeking help from the U.S. Supreme Court after facing ongoing legal challenges for eight years. Cathy Miller, who owns the bakery Tastries, has been in conflict with the state over her refusal to make a wedding cake for a same-sex couple. She argues that creating such a cake would violate her religious beliefs.
The troubles began in 2017 when the California Civil Rights Department sued Miller, claiming she violated public accommodation laws. Following her refusal, Miller’s bakery was bombarded with negative social media comments, threats, and harassment. Despite a state trial court initially siding with her under the Free Speech Clause, the decision was overturned by an appeals court. The California Supreme Court later declined to take up the case.
Miller’s legal team, from the Becket law firm, is now asking the Supreme Court to intervene. They argue that the lower courts are not following previous rulings that protect individuals from being forced to act against their faith. In her petition, Miller explains that she has turned down various requests for cakes that go against her beliefs, including those with explicit themes or that promote substances like marijuana.
Miller has established design standards for her bakery that reflect her Christian values, stating that she will not accept orders that contradict her principles. She believes that California is essentially forcing her to choose between her business and her faith.
The petition also highlights a divide among lower courts regarding how compelled speech is treated under the First Amendment. This split could lead to inconsistent rulings and further conflicts over religious accommodations, particularly in cases involving same-sex weddings.
Miller’s situation raises important questions about the balance between religious freedom and anti-discrimination laws. As she awaits a decision from the Supreme Court, the outcome could have significant implications for similar cases across the country.
