For Immediate Release
Contact:
David Niose, AHA Legal Director: 202-238-9088 x119
Monica Miller, AHA Senior Counsel: 202-238-9088 x120
(Hamilton, GA, Nov. 25, 2015) – The American Humanist Association today sent a letter objecting to a divisive religious sign that was recently erected by the sheriff in Harris County, Georgia. The letter can be seen at this link.
The sign, a photo of which is depicted in the letter, reads:
“Welcome to Harris County, Georgia! WARNING: Harris County is politically incorrect. We say: Merry Christmas, God Bless America and In God We Trust; We salute our troops and our flag. If this offends you… LEAVE!”
The AHA letter tells the sheriff that the sign is unconstitutional and demands that it be removed. “The sign is openly hostile to those who don’t agree with the sheriff’s religious views,” said AHA legal director David Niose. “Even devout Christians should realize that such actions by public officials reflect poorly on the community, sending an ugly message of intolerance.”
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Founded in 1941 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the American Humanist Association (AHA) works to protect the rights of humanists, atheists, and other nontheistic Americans. The AHA advances the ethical and life-affirming philosophy of humanism, which—without beliefs in any gods or other supernatural forces—encourages individuals to live informed and meaningful lives that aspire to the greater good of humanity.
Special thanks to the Louis J. Appignani Foundation for their support of the Appignani Humanist Legal Center.