Humanists Cheer Darwin Day Resolutions Introduced in the 116th Congress
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Sarah Henry, (202) 238-9088, shenry@americanhumanist.org
(Washington D.C., February 12, 2019) – American Humanist Association (AHA) leaders applaud the introduction of House Resolution 123 and Senate Resolution 63, also known as the Darwin Day Resolutions. Introduced by Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT) and Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), the resolutions commemorate the birthday of famed biologist Charles Darwin, February 12, as a national celebration of evolution and science while opposing the teaching of creationism in public school science classrooms.
“Charles Darwin represents the power of science and reason to change our world and the way we view our place in the universe,” said Rep. Himes. “Overcoming the challenges we face – the destruction of our environment, the need for renewable energy, and global population growth – will require the best humanity has to offer. We must inspire a new generation of Americans to enter the fields of science, technology, math and engineering. There is no nobler pursuit than acquiring an education in order to better the lot of humanity. There is no nobler title one can wear than “scientist.”
“I am proud to champion and celebrate Charles Darwin and the countless scientists and explorers who’ve built on his remarkable discoveries and achievements,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Darwin Day recognizes Darwin’s invaluable contributions, which fundamentally changed the field of natural science and dramatically advanced our understanding of the world. Today, we reflect and remember that the dogged pursuit of science and human knowledge are profoundly important to the progress of humankind and the preservation of our planet.”
“While we take care not to deify our heroes of the past, and we take time to recognize their flaws, we are proud to continue recognizing the work of famed scientist Charles Darwin,” notes American Humanist Association Executive Director Roy Speckhardt. “Humanism and reason go hand in hand, as we use scientific advancements to protect nature’s integrity, diversity, and beauty, and take responsibility for our lives and the kind of world in which we live.”
The American Humanist Association worked closely with Rep. Himes and Sen. Blumenthal, their staff, and other members of Congress to introduce this pivotal legislation. House Resolution 123 is currently cosponsored by Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Alan Lowenthal (D-CA), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Donald McEachin (D-VA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Al Lawson, Jr. (D-FL), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Jerry McNerny (D-CA), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Bill Foster (D-IL), Jaime Raskin (D-MD), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), Thomas Suozzi (D-NY), Dina Titus (D-NV), and Zoe Lofgren (D-CA). Senate Resolution 63 is currently cosponsored by Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
Darwin Day is a project of the American Humanist Association, and was founded in 1993 by molecular biologist Dr. Robert Stephens. The AHA maintains DarwinDay.org, showcasing Darwin Day celebrations around the country, providing details about Charles Darwin and his work, and features state and local initiatives to introduce Darwin Day resolutions and proclamations.
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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 worldview of humanism, which—without beliefs in gods or other supernatural forces—encourages individuals to live informed and meaningful lives that aspire to the greater good of humanity.