Civic Register
| 5.2.18
Nontheist Caucus – Do Non-Religious People Need Protection?
Join us and tell your reps how you feel!
What’s the story?
- A group of House Democrats have launched a congressional caucus aimed at promoting "science and reason-based solutions" and "defending the secular character of our government."
- Rep. Jared Huffman of California, one of four founders of the Congressional Freethought Caucus, tweeted:
Why does it matter?
- The nearly 700 congressional caucuses, which fall under the broader category of “congressional member organizations” (CMOs), include clubs for former Girl Scouts, those concerned about contaminated drywall, and the better-known Congressional Black Caucus and the Republican Study Committee.
- But until now, there has not been a caucus for members of Congress without organized religion.
- “This is historic," Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), of the caucus’ co-chairs, said in a statement.
“Two-and-a-half centuries after the Founders of our country separated church and state and guaranteed the individual freedoms of thought, conscience, speech and worship, it is a high honor to be a co-founder and member of the Congressional Freethought Caucus, which is organizing to defend these principles and values against continuing attack."
- Huffman said the caucus will stand in stark contrast to the Trump administration, which works closely with evangelical leaders.
“There currently is no forum focused on these important issues, and with this Administration and certain members of Congress constantly working to erode the separation of church and state, this new caucus is both important and timely," Huffman said in a statement.
What do you think?
Do non-religious people need protections? Do you support a caucus for the nontheistic? Would you like to see additional caucuses for other non-religious beliefs, from atheism to agnosticism? Hit Take Action and tell your reps, then share your thoughts below.
—Josh Herman
(Photo Credit: duckycards / iStock)
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