Today, the American Humanist Association (AHA) recognizes U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer’s many years on the Court. Justice Breyer’s decision to step down at the end of the current term to allow a younger jurist to take his place is commendable. At this important time in the Supreme Court’s history, it will be absolutely crucial to appoint a replacement that will share Justice Breyer’s progressive voice and respect for the separation of religion and government. The court’s conservative majority will only continue to uphold their redefined idea of religious freedom, using it to harm others instead of to protect all. We call for the appointment and confirmation of a new Justice who will stand firm for the First Amendment. 

“The current composition of the Supreme Court has proven challenging for those fighting for true religious freedom. We hope Justice Breyer’s departure is an opportunity to welcome a justice even more committed to defending the cornerstone of our democracy: separation of church and state,” says AHA’s Legal Director and Senior Counsel Monica Miller.

We urge President Biden to choose a qualified, progressive voice for this seat as well as to uphold his campaign promise to appoint the first Black woman to the Supreme Court. 

“The diversity in perspective of Biden’s appointees is incredibly important, not only because it better represents the true diversity of our country, but also because it can open the doors to a more inclusive judiciary going forward,” comments AHA Executive Director Nadya Dutchin. “Black and brown women are extremely underrepresented at all levels of the federal bench. We cannot move toward a more progressive and democratic future without ensuring those unique experiences and voices are heard.”