On Thursday, June 19, the plaintiff and defense attorneys will make closing arguments in Schara v. Ascension Health et al., the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of 19-year-old Grace Schara. The case is expected to go to the jury that afternoon.
Rebecca Terrell of The New American has been providing daily coverage of the trial’s proceedings. You can get up to speed here: Landmark Covid Trial: Ongoing Coverage – The New American
The family is hoping to have 100 supporters attend Thursday’s proceedings.
The courthouse is located at 320 South Walnut Street, Appleton. Supporters will be gathering at 7:00 a.m. Roughly 20 people will be allowed into the courtroom; other attendees will be permitted in an overflow room with two large television monitors, a few comfortable chairs, and additional wooden bench (pew-style) seating. Drinks — BUT NOT FOOD — have been allowed in the overflow room; sitting in the overflow room also allows you to come and go, which is NOT allowed for those seated in the courtroom itself.
We are thankful that Judge McGinnis has allowed this case to be heard. That he has allowed it to be livestreamed. That he has provided an overflow room. That he appears to want the truth to be heard by the jurors, so that they can come to a decision based on what is presented to them.
If You Plan to Attend
Judge McGinnis has set rules that he expects to be followed. IMPORTANTLY, “No persons will be allowed in the courtroom if wearing clothing expressing sympathy or support for any issue in this case or anything or anyone connected to this case.”
I suggest not wearing purple (Grace’s favorite color), wristbands, supportive buttons, or any similar attire. And please leave your cellphones at home or in your car!
A great deal of time, effort, and money has been invested in this trial. To this point, the jury pool has been protected from outside influences.
I know that there has been some talk of having posters, banners, and signs displayed on the public sidewalks … but I am asking you to reconsider, out of an abundance of caution.
What if the jurors arrive and see such a display, and can no longer say they are unbiased? Would that make a mistrial a possibility?
I know our rights are protected by the First Amendment, so bring your signs if you want. But until we or they think this through, may I be so bold as to ask that you keep them in your vehicles? We’ve come so far …
Now Is the Time to Show Up
Scott Schara and his family have poured more than three years of their lives into this battle.
Now is YOUR time to show up in person. I have seen first-hand the pleased and grateful looks of the family as they see us there. I am hoping that those of you who have been showing up will continue to do so.
And for those of you who are local and have been following online, or have shown up at events where Scott has been the key speaker, NOW IS YOUR TIME TO SHOW UP IN PERSON.
- WIN OR LOSE, this case is making history.
- WIN OR LOSE, lives were saved and are being saved by the truth being highlighted.
- WIN OR LOSE, lives have been changed. The WHITE PILL, for those who understand.
- WIN OR LOSE, please come show your support. Scott told God that if God would open doors, he would continue to obediently walk through them.
Even if your schedule does not allow you to stay for the trial, can you please be there at 7:00 a.m. and meet some of the other supporters?
I am hoping for a huge local turnout, with your help. Even if you can’t be here, please share this with others who might be able to be present.
My Closing Argument
To win on any count, it will take 10 of the 12 jurors to agree. This strikes me as a pretty high bar — not a simple majority. Pray wisdom on the jurors.
And win or lose, may our God be praised.
