The American Humanist Association is deeply shocked and saddened by the news of twelve people who were killed in a religiously motivated attack at the headquarters of the French satirical publication Charlie Hebdo. Our thoughts are with the Charlie Hedbo staff and their families.

As an organization committed to defending freedom of speech, thought, and expression, the American Humanist Association strongly condemns these horrific acts of violence. Those who break the law to enforce religious codes must be brought to justice. Religion isn’t and shouldn’t be protected from criticism, and we will continue to stand with those who will defend our basic human right of free speech.