Define Separation of Church & State

Define Separation of Church & State

The Issue

The implication of Christianity is set in stone in America. Our currency, congressional buildings, pledge of allegiance, and our judicial system are just a few examples of how our country portrays its religious views. The word "GOD" is etched in our history and will continue to be in our future.

The separation of church and state was first assumed after Thomas Jefferson wrote the Danbury Baptist Letter. (first link) This letter is what lead to the first amendment in the constitution. If we as Americans do have freedom of religion then this should  include non-theistic beliefs as well - such as Atheism.

It is to go against the constitutional rights of an Atheist to make him/her place their hand on the bible when in a court of law.

It purposely places an Atheist in an unpatriotic position when they do not feel comfortable saying, "One nation under God."

Sporting events, presidential speeches, even paying for a candy bar are constant reminders of God to an Atheist. How can an Atheist be expected to "co-exist" in a God fearing country?

If we truly want to abide by the first amendment we must revise it to hold true to it's meaning.

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

should be changed to:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. Therefore if you are an Atheist the government will transfer you respectfully to Sweden where you may live your non-theistic life in peace."

This may make you laugh silently to yourself, but it's absurdity compares to the disdain of America towards Atheism in general.

If you agree and are not Atheist please change the letter below accordingly.

http://candst.tripod.com/tnppage/baptist.htm​

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Separation_of_church_and_state​

avatar of the starter
GJcarra HedgesPetition StarterI care about bringing forth a sustainable future by endorsing organic local products. I am a practicing vegan who eats locally farmed cheese. I support renewable energy through solar and wind farming. I believe that true sustainability begins when each of us can pledge to only eat locally grown food and sacrifice our vehicles for public transportation, biking, and using our own two feet. Sustainability promotes a better world in all aspects. It retires corporate business. It relieves poverty. It promotes peace. Let us never forget what feeds the great divides between people: Apathy and Greed.
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The Issue

The implication of Christianity is set in stone in America. Our currency, congressional buildings, pledge of allegiance, and our judicial system are just a few examples of how our country portrays its religious views. The word "GOD" is etched in our history and will continue to be in our future.

The separation of church and state was first assumed after Thomas Jefferson wrote the Danbury Baptist Letter. (first link) This letter is what lead to the first amendment in the constitution. If we as Americans do have freedom of religion then this should  include non-theistic beliefs as well - such as Atheism.

It is to go against the constitutional rights of an Atheist to make him/her place their hand on the bible when in a court of law.

It purposely places an Atheist in an unpatriotic position when they do not feel comfortable saying, "One nation under God."

Sporting events, presidential speeches, even paying for a candy bar are constant reminders of God to an Atheist. How can an Atheist be expected to "co-exist" in a God fearing country?

If we truly want to abide by the first amendment we must revise it to hold true to it's meaning.

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

should be changed to:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. Therefore if you are an Atheist the government will transfer you respectfully to Sweden where you may live your non-theistic life in peace."

This may make you laugh silently to yourself, but it's absurdity compares to the disdain of America towards Atheism in general.

If you agree and are not Atheist please change the letter below accordingly.

http://candst.tripod.com/tnppage/baptist.htm​

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Separation_of_church_and_state​

avatar of the starter
GJcarra HedgesPetition StarterI care about bringing forth a sustainable future by endorsing organic local products. I am a practicing vegan who eats locally farmed cheese. I support renewable energy through solar and wind farming. I believe that true sustainability begins when each of us can pledge to only eat locally grown food and sacrifice our vehicles for public transportation, biking, and using our own two feet. Sustainability promotes a better world in all aspects. It retires corporate business. It relieves poverty. It promotes peace. Let us never forget what feeds the great divides between people: Apathy and Greed.
Media inquiries

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Petition created on June 18, 2010