PRESS RELEASES
Texas ‘Merry Christmas’ law says ‘Drop dead’ to Constitution
6/17/2013 · Statement by Annie Laurie Gaylor and Dan Barker / Co-Presidents Freedom From Religion Foundation Grandstanding pols in Texas last week passed the “Merry Christmas” bill, supposedly to ensure that public school students and teachers can say “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Hanukkah” unimpeded. As MSNBC commentator Rachel … More »
‘Atheists in foxholes’ garner 150 votes in Congress!
6/14/2013 · Some 150 members of Congress today voted in favor of allowing nonreligious military chaplains to serve atheists and agnostics in the armed forces. Although that wasn’t enough for an amendment to succeed, it means a lot to American freethinkers. U.S. Rep. Jared Polis (D-CO) offered the amendment … More »
Celebrate 50 years of freedom from religious ritual in public schools
6/14/2013 · Monday, June 17, marks the 50th anniversary of the landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in Abington v. Schempp.Ellery Schempp began protesting morning devotions as a 16-year-old junior in Abington Senior High in Pennsylvania in 1956. Pennsylvania law then required 10 verses of … More »
Federal Immigration Office discriminates against nonbelievers
6/14/2013 · Read the letter of complaint to the Houston USCIS … More »
FFRF warns Michigan bills micromanage, have religious agenda
6/14/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation, a national state/church watchdog, has heard from many of its Michigan members concerned over the mischief-making intent of two state Senate bills discussed in a Committee on Education hearing Wednesday. Although ostensibly relating to history instruction and religion in … More »
Wisconsin abortion bills a travesty
6/13/2013 · Statement by FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor Disgraceful passage by the Wisconsin Legislature today of an unconstitutional bill promoted by Roman Catholics to allow religious employers to bar contraception coverage for women employees is a travesty. SB 202 has major state/church implications. The bill would prohibit … More »
FFRF calls out Green Bay area superintendent for commencement speech
6/13/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is asking the Howard-Suamico Board of Education in Wisconsin to reprimand a school district superintendent for exhorting parents to pray in his commencement speech at a Green Bay high school. FFRF, a Madison, Wis.-based state/church watchdog, sent a letter on … More »
FFRF sues over literature discrimination
6/12/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation filed a lawsuit June 13 in U.S. District Court in Florida against the Orange County School Board in Orlando for censoring distribution of freethought materials while allowing unfettered distribution of the Christian bible. Plaintiffs are FFRF, its Co-Presidents Annie Laurie … More »
Courthouse door slams shut in ‘Arizona Day of Prayer’ appeal
6/12/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation called it “highly disappointing” that the Arizona State Court of Appeals yesterday threw out its bid to declare unconstitutional annual Arizona Day of Prayer proclamations by Gov. Jan Brewer. The case was not lost on its merits, but on “standing.” The … More »
Wisconsin voucher expansion scheme alarming
6/7/2013 · FFRF Statement "Forward" may be the official motto of Wisconsin, but Wisconsin's governor has made an alarming deal with legislative leadership that will take our state educational system backward. Wisconsin's constitutionally created secular common school system is under ruthless attack.The budget approved by the Joint … More »
Bigoted U.S. reps say no to equality in military
6/7/2013 · There are plenty of foxhole atheists, but religionists on the U.S. House Armed Services Committee made sure this week that none will be allowed to serve as secular representatives in the chaplain corps.A stream of invective against atheists followed the introduction of an amendment by … More »
FFRF opposes 'controversial issue' creationism in public schools
6/7/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is objecting to proposals in Springboro, Ohio, that appear to promote religion under the guise of controversial issues and patriotic ceremonies. FFRF, a Madison, Wis.-based state/church watchdog, is concerned that the policies are a ploy to inject religion into what … More »
FFRF calls out Pickens County Schools multiple religious offenses
6/6/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is placing the blame for a string of problematic religious violations in Pickens County schools, Pickens S.C., upon its prayerful Board of Education. A valedictorian's open defiance of a non-prayer policy at his June 3 graduation ceremony at Liberty High … More »
There’s no reason to keep hating
6/5/2013 · Oh no! "Pulpit Freedom Sunday" is back! The Orwellian-named "Alliance Defending Freedom" typically hosts the annual Pulpit Freedom Sunday in the fall, encouraging pastors around the country to openly violate IRS law by endorsing political candidates from the pulpit. This annual event, in which … More »
FFRF’s “Colorado Day of Prayer” victory appealed to state Supreme Court
5/30/2013 · The Colorado Supreme Court announced earlier this month that it will hear an appeal by Gov. John Hickenlooper of the Freedom From Religion Foundation's victory in the appeals court declaring unconstitutional the governor's "Colorado Day of Prayer" proclamations.Hickenlooper and his predecessors, including Gov. Bill … More »
Church hosting school concert is unholy mix of church and state
5/29/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation remains concerned at a Texas school districts role in organizing tonight’s performance at a high school auditorium which was paid for by a Baptist Church. FFRF, a Madison, Wis.-based state/church watchdog, was contacted three days before a religious 5th grade … More »
FFRF banner in Wilkes-Barre: Nothing Fails Like Prayer
5/24/2013 · Wilkes-Barre student Justin Vacula, in conjunction with the Freedom From Religion Foundation, has just arranged placement of a colorful banner saying "Nothing Fails Like Prayer" in Public Square in downtown Wilkes-Barre, Penn. The banner is in response to a banner placed by a religious … More »
Boy Scouts of America still practices discrimination
5/24/2013 · Statement by Annie Laurie Gaylor and Dan Barker FFRF Co-Presidents We congratulate Boy Scouts of America for lifting its longtime, hurtful ban on gays being members. BSA has taken a major step forward, albeit still barring gay adult leadership. But why does it remain socially acceptable … More »
Sailors forced to hear shipboard prayer
5/24/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has renewed its objections to constitutional violations occurring aboard U.S. Navy ships. In a May 20 letter to Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, FFRF Staff Attorney Andrew Seidel urged Mabus to order an end to the practice of broadcasting … More »
Elementary school religious music program 'drastically altered'
5/23/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation, a Madison, Wis-based state/church watchdog, stopped presentation of a fifth-grade religious musical program in Lindale, Texas. FFRF was contacted by a concerned parent about a 5th grade music program scheduled to take place today at E.J. Moss Intermediate School … More »
Saluting two nonreligious newsmakers
5/23/2013 · Statement by Dan Barker and Annie Laurie GaylorFFRF Co-Presidents While President Obama was counseling "faith in the Almighty" and prayer in the wake of the devastating Oklahoma tornado (to his credit, promising to "back up those prayers with deeds"), a brave secular survivor of that … More »
We’ve lost Alton Lemon, but Lemon Test lives
5/23/2013 · Statement By Dan Barker and Annie Laurie Gaylor FFRF Co-Presidents The Freedom From Religion Foundation has a very rare, very elite category of members who are “honorary officers.” The title is reserved for freethinkers who have won Supreme Court cases in favor of the separation of … More »
Ball State U investigates whether teaching is preaching
5/22/2013 · After receiving a student complaint, the Freedom From Religion Foundation has called for Ball State University in Muncie, Ind., to investigate allegations that a physics and astronomy professor appeared to be teaching creationism at the public university. FFRF, a Madison, Wis.-based state/church watchdog, sent a … More »
FFRF: Keep preaching out of nature preserve
5/21/2013 · Should a church in Madison, Wis., be allowed to proselytize in the Pheasant Branch Conservancy in the adjoining city of Middleton? The Freedom From Religion Foundation, a national state-church watchdog based in Madison, thinks not. The city's Conservancy Lands Committee will discuss a request from Rev. … More »
Gage Pulliam wins 'Strong Backbone' student activist award
5/17/2013 · On Monday a public school district in Muldrow, Okla., confirmed that it has permanently removed Ten Commandment signs which were posted in its classrooms. The final vote is a victory for the separation of church and state. The whistleblower was 16-year-old student Gage Pulliam, who … More »
FFRF protests bibles in Georgia state parks
5/15/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation today contacted Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal, protesting his decision to override the Department of Natural Resources and return bibles to all lodge rooms and cabins in Georgia state parks. The DNR, appropriately, had removed the bibles after a guest … More »
Muldrow Public Schools removes Ten Commandments postings from classrooms
5/13/2013 · An Oklahoma school district is learning a valuable lesson thanks to a student and the Freedom From Religion Foundation. On May 1, FFRF sent a letter to Superintendent Ron Flanagan requesting that he ensure that numerous Ten Commandments postings be removed from Muldrow Public Schools … More »
FFRF wants Georgia teachers, students disciplined
5/9/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is asking Lumpkin County Schools in Georgia to discipline four staffers who left their classrooms unattended and about 50 students who skipped class to join a prayer rally that started in a coach's office.The national state/church watchdog based in … More »
Official school religion OK’d by Texas court
5/8/2013 · A misguided decision by a state judge in Texas, permitting public school cheerleaders to exhibit Christian bible verses and messages during high school football games, makes Christianity the official school religion in Kountze, Texas.So contends the Freedom From Religion Foundation, whose letter in September … More »
FFRF protests National Day of Prayer
5/2/2013 · Click ad to enlarge The Freedom From Religion Foundation is taking its objections to the annual National Day of Prayer to "pious politicians" in the seat of federal government, via a full-page ad in today's Washington Post."When we have faith in ourselves, we won't need faith … More »
Atheist literature to be distributed in Orange County Public Schools
4/30/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation and its Florida chapter, the Central Florida Freethought Community, will be passing out atheist and freethought literature to students in Orange County Public Schools this Thursday.The distribution of freethought literature is set for May 2, the National Day of … More »
Will pay to pray in Florida school
4/26/2013 · After the St. Johns County School Board voted recently against allowing high school graduation prayer in St. Augustine, Fla., a Colorado pastor is offering a $1,000 reward to the first student to flout school policy and break the law. A state law enacted last year … More »
Commandments out in Kentucky school district
4/12/2013 · At the urging of the Freedom From Religion Foundation, numerous framed postings of the Ten Commandments have come down in Breathitt County Schools in Kentucky. FFRF contacted the manager for the school system, Larry Hammond, on April 5 about the postings. FFRF Staff Attorney Patrick … More »
FFRF contests mayoral prayer breakfast
4/10/2013 · The city of Hattiesburg, Miss., shouldn't be using city resources and public tax dollars to promote a May 2 religious observance, FFRF Staff Attorney Elizabeth Cavell told Mayor Johnny L. DuPree in an April 9 letter of complaint. The event being publicized as the "Mayor's … More »
April Fools in North Carolina pursue state religion
4/3/2013 · Without intended irony on April Fools' Day, Republican Rowan County Reps. Harry Warren and Carl Ford introduced House Joint Resolution 494 to establish a state religion in North Carolina.Unbelievably, the bill has already attracted 12 other equally ignorant sponsors. It’s no joking matter that … More »
FFRF, Ohio ACLU rebuff school’s Jesus “switcheroo”
4/1/2013 · Portrait now hanging in Jackson Middle School challenged today A display of Jesus is just as unconstitutional in a high school as it is in a middle school. That's the message of the amended complaint filed today by the ACLU of Ohio and the Freedom … More »
Has Pennsylvania Religious Right no shame?
3/28/2013 · Pennsylvania state Rep. Tim Krieger has introduced a bill in the General Assembly that would outlaw the use of pseudonyms in litigation challenging religious symbols on public property. In a memo to representatives seeking co-sponsorship, Krieger said the bill is in direct response to lawsuits … More »
Student activist awards given to Milwaukee-area brothers
3/13/2013 · Mayan and Balen Essak, student activists Mayan and Balen Essak have each received a $1,000 scholarship from the Freedom From Religion Foundation. The brothers attend Shorewood High School in Shorewood, Wis., a Milwaukee suburb. The brothers received the awards for speaking out in their community and … More »
Nonbelievers seek to take God off currency
3/12/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation, along with 19 other plaintiffs, is suing the U.S. Treasury for stamping "In God We Trust" on currency. Honorary FFRF board member Mike Newdow is acting as legal counsel in the suit, which was filed in the U.S. District … More »
Give thanks to the McCollum family
3/7/2013 · By Annie Laurie Gaylor Co-President, Freedom From Religion Foundation Not one workday ever goes by that we at the Freedom From Religion Foundation do not give thanks — to the McCollum family for the landmark ruling they won. We must pause this Friday, March 8, … More »
FFRF school complaint uncovers creationist Okla. superintendent
3/6/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation, which has been corresponding with Wynnewood Public Schools, Okla., over inappropriate actions by a teacher promoting religion in the classroom, is releasing its correspondence with Superintendent Raymond Cole, in which he preached at FFRF and indicated he rejects evolution.FFRF … More »
Sixth Circuit censors criticism of religion in FFRF case
2/25/2013 · An appeals court ruled today that a Michigan mayor can censor nonreligious speech, while continuing to endorse a nativity scene in the city atrium.A 3-judge panel of the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit ruled against the Freedom From Religion Foundation's … More »
FFRF member, Mexican Fiesta settle civil rights dispute
2/25/2013 · Mexican Fiesta will no longer give discounts for attending Catholic Mass per the terms of a settlement with Richard Halasz, a Freedom From Religion Foundation member from Milwaukee.Mexican Fiesta, an annual festival held each summer in Milwaukee on the Summerfest grounds, had advertised a … More »
FFRF opposes Walker's alarming voucher expansion
2/19/2013 · Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker's budget proposal includes major increases in taxpayer funding to subsidize vouchers for primarily religious schools, the Freedom From Religion Foundation charges.The governor's budget includes a $73 million increase for voucher schools and a new $21 million program for a statewide … More »
FFRF fights back over Big Mountain Jesus
2/18/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation filed a brief on Feb. 15 fighting the federal government's motion in support of a permanent shrine to Jesus in the Flathead National Forest, leased at no cost since the 1950s to the Knights of Columbus. The statue is near Kalispell, Mont. "A … More »
Dan Barker teams up with Charles Strouse
2/15/2013 · Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Dan Barker has teamed up to write a song with Broadway icon (“Annie,” “Bye Bye Birdie”) Charles Strouse, and their irreverent collaboration debuts in FFRF’s newly-released third musical CD, “Adrift on a Star.” Cover: Seymour Cwast … More »
FFRF, ACLU sue over Ohio Jesus portrait
2/7/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation and the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio filed a lawsuit today (Feb. 6, 2013) on behalf of plaintiffs who seek removal of a portrait of Jesus from Jackson Middle School in Jackson. FFRF sent an initial letter of complaint … More »
Urge President Obama to speak up for nonbelievers and gays in BSA
2/4/2013 · Email or phone the President today urging him as honorary president of Boy Scouts of America to support inclusion of gay and nonreligious members, volunteers and leaders. The White House Comment Line: 202/456-1111TTY/TTD Comment line: 202/456-6213 FFRF letter to President Barack Obama re: BSA policy of exclusion (PDF … More »
FFRF sues florist in Rhode Island
1/29/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is suing a Rhode Island florist in Superior Court in Providence for refusing to deliver FFRF's order of a dozen red roses to Cranston teen Jessica Ahlquist after she won a court case in January 2012. The complaint, filed Jan. … More »
FFRF ‘Spotlight’ airs thousands of times on public TV
1/25/2013 · If video does not appear, click here to watch the 5:30 “Spotlight On!” The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s first-of-its-kind feature production for use as educational filler on public television affiliates aired more than 1,430 times over three months late last year. This is the first … More »
Judge rules FFRF’s commandments case may proceed
1/24/2013 · U.S. District Judge Terrence McVerry ruled Jan. 22 that the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s challenge to a Ten Commandments monument in front of a Pennsylvania high school will go forward. McVerry rejected a motion to dismiss by the New Kensington-Arnold School District and issued … More »
‘Godding’ going on, but humanism prevails
1/21/2013 · Statement by Annie Laurie GaylorCo-PresidentFreedom From Religion FoundationThe Freedom From Religion Foundation has asked every president since FFRF was founded, starting with Jimmy Carter, to eschew the use of a bible and the "So help you God" phrase at presidential inaugurations. Staff Attorney Andrew … More »
FFRF objects to Washington State Senate prayer
1/16/2013 · Note: Below the following call to action is a copy of the letter FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor sent to Washington State Lt. Governor Owen over inappropriate prayer at the Jan. 14 State Senate session. Click here to view the letter as PDF. We … More »
FFRF's solstice sign is back in Wilkes-Barre
1/4/2013 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation's Winter Solstice banner is back up and will hang in the Wilkes-Barre Public Square for six more days — provided that it is not vandalized again. "We are very pleased to hear that the city has rehung the banner and … More »
Another FFRF solstice banner disappears
1/2/2013 · A Winter Solstice banner placed by the Freedom From Religion Foundation in a public park in Manassas, Va., was stolen over the holidays. FFRF received a permit from the city for its "Let Reason Prevail" banner to counter a nativity scene. It was placed by … More »
FFRF banner gets censored in Pitman
12/28/2012 · From left: Sean Cunningham, Shelly Colanduno, Matt Newcomb and Jason Shainline. "Keep Saturn in Saturnalia" is the message the Freedom From Religion Foundation would have liked to share with Pitman, N.J., residents this holiday season, but the group was stonewalled by borough officials. The state/church … More »
FFRF sues IRS over preferential treatment of churches
12/28/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation filed a federal lawsuit yesterday challenging the Internal Revenue Service’s preferential treatment of churches in applying for and maintaining tax-exempt status. The IRS exempts churches and certain other religious organizations from paying expensive application fees and filing the onerous … More »
First Amendment grinches steal, vandalize FFRF solstice signs
12/27/2012 · It was not exactly “good will toward all” at public forums around the country. The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s winter solstice banner or sign, placed in 12 cities to counter religious displays on public property, has been stolen or vandalized in four spots by … More »
FFRF to Wilkes-Barre: Investigate vandalism
12/24/2012 · Below is a copy of the letter FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor sent to the mayor of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., on Dec. 21 in response to the recent vandalism of FFRF's Winter Solstice banner. It has been five days since FFRF's banner was vandalized by an … More »
FFRF solstice banner up in Virginia
12/21/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is challenging an inappropriate nativity scene in Manassas, Va., with its own message about the "real reason for the season." FFRF's 7½-by-3-foot banner states: "At this Season of the Winter Solstice, LET REASON PREVAIL. There are not gods, no devils, … More »
FFRF solstice banner missing in Michigan
12/21/2012 · A thief or thieves in Warren, Mich., stole the Freedom From Religion Foundation's Winter Solstice banner several days after it was put in place to counter a religious nativity scene on public property. It was vandalized on Dec. 16, the day after it was … More »
Vandal attacks Wilkes-Barre solstice sign
12/21/2012 · A man yesterday about 4 p.m. brazenly climbed a structure to cut the cord attaching the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Winter Solstice banner in Public Square in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. The city, which requires that its workers must place displays, had just put the banner … More »
Council votes out nativity in Cheboygan, Mich.
12/21/2012 · The City Council in Cheboygan, Mich., moved a nativity display off public property rather than give the Freedom From Religion Foundation equal time during the winter holiday season. “We couldn't be more pleased,” said Annie Laurie Gaylor, FFRF co-president. “We think religion — or irreligion … More »
Solstice is the 'reason for the season' in Arlington Heights
12/21/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is challenging a nativity scene in North School Park in Arlington Heights, Ill., with a message about the "real reason for the season." Despite being called "spoil sports" by a local resident, members of FFRF Metropolitan Chicago Chapter say that … More »
FFRF solstice banner up in Wilkes-Barre
12/19/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation, with the help of a Pennsylvania member, has placed its Winter Solstice banner in Wilkes-Barre's Public Square to counter religious displays set up there. The 7½-by-3 foot banner states: “At this Season of the Winter Solstice, LET REASON PREVAIL. There … More »
FFRF brings solstice message to Olympia
12/18/2012 · Darrell Barker poses with FFRF's banner in 2011. The Freedom From Religion Foundation, on behalf its 1,000 Washington members, placed its Winter Solstice sign today in front of the state capitol for the second year. The Madison, Wis.-based national state/church watchdog has over 19,000 members nationwide. Thanks … More »
Heathens seek shelter at Prineville city hall
12/18/2012 · Religion "hardens hearts & enslaves minds" declares the Freedom From Religion Foundation on its newly placed Winter Solstice banner challenging a nativity scene on government property near city hall in Prineville, Ore. FFRF is a national state/church watchdog with over 19,000 members nationwide, including more … More »
FFRF celebrates reason in Gladwin, Mich.
12/17/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation's Winter Solstice banner is on display on the grounds of the Gladwin County Courthouse in Gladwin, giving Michigan secularists an opportunity to celebrate reason during the winter holiday season. Local FFRF supporter Joe Chavez put the banner up last week … More »
FFRF to Streator: 'Let Reason Prevail'
12/17/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has placed a Winter Solstice banner in Streator's city park today to counter a nativity scene and Christian display on public property. FFRF is a national state/church watchdog with over 19,000 members nationwide, including nearly 700 in Illinois. This is not … More »
No need for "gods or devils" in Boston Common
12/17/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation will place its Winter Solstice banner in Boston Common (Boston, Mass.) today at 2 p.m. to counter an inappropriate nativity scene on park property. FFRF Senior Staff Attorney Rebecca Markert has worked diligently to secure a permit for a location … More »
FFRF solstice banner vandalized
12/17/2012 · A vandal or vandals in Warren, Mich., damaged the Freedom From Religion Foundation's Winter Solstice banner the day after it was put in place to counter a religious nativity scene on public property. The 7½-by-3 foot banner states: “At this Season of the Winter Solstice, … More »
FFRF illuminates San Angelo Police Dept violation
12/14/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation says an illuminated Latin cross atop the San Angelo Police Department in San Angelo, Texas, must come down. FFRF is a national state/church watchdog with over 19,000 members nationwide, including over 900 in Texas. FFRF and its local complainant contend that … More »
FFRF ornaments Warren highway with Solstice banner
12/13/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation returns to Macomb County (Warren, Mich.) this holiday season — this time with its bright and timely Winter Solstice banner. With the help of local member Douglas Marshall, the display is set to go up tomorrow at 2 p.m. near … More »
‘Arizona’s Christmas City’ violates Constitution
12/13/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation contacted Prescott public schools, the City of Prescott, Yavapai County and the Arizona Secretary of State over their support and participation in a devotional Christmas celebration in front of the county courthouse in downtown Prescott, Ariz., that crosses the … More »
FFRF's Annual Madison Winter Solstice celebration!
12/12/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is hosting a noon solstice celebration on Friday, Dec. 21 from 12-1 p.m. at the Wisconsin State Capitol (GAR Memorial Hearing Room — use door 413 North or 417 North. Click here for directions). The festivities will include solstice carols … More »
Ten FFRF bus signs go up in Anchorage
12/10/2012 · Ten bus signs bearing four different messages from the Freedom From Religion Foundation went up today for a month on Anchorage city (“People Mover”) buses. FFRF, based in Madison, Wis., is a state/church watchdog and the largest association of freethinkers (atheists, agnostics) with more than … More »
Niles gives Founding Fathers a place at the inn
12/10/2012 · Freedom From Religion Foundation's new Chicago-area chapter has placed a Winter Solstice banner in Niles, Ill., celebrating the "nativity" of our Bill of Rights. It depicts the Founding Fathers reverently observing the Bill of Rights in a manger. The FFRF Metropolitan Chicago Chapter is posting … More »
Brownback should 'repent' his 'Day of Repentance'
12/6/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging Kansas Governor Sam Brownback to rescind his religious proclamations and opt not, in his official capacity, to attend or endorse the overtly Christian event "Going to the Heart," which is scheduled to broadcast live from Topeka, Kan., … More »
FFRF's Winter Solstice sign goes up in Milwaukee courthouse
12/3/2012 · A Freedom From Religion Foundation member has placed the group's Winter Solstice sign in the Milwaukee courthouse today for the second year in a row. FFRF Lifetime Member Edward Susterich delivered the … More »
Judge rules FFRF's Jesus shrine suit can go forward
11/28/2012 · U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen ruled Nov. 27 that the Freedom From Religion Foundation's lawsuit against the U.S. Forest Service and the Catholic Knights of Columbus council in Kalispell, Mont., can proceed. FFRF sued in February 2012, seeking a declaration that the "continued presence of … More »
Freethought Today gets restaurant 'church discount'
11/28/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation helped one of its Pennsylvania members obtain a favorable ruling for nonbelievers from the state Human Relations Commission. After John Wolff of Lancaster was unable to get the owners of Prudhomme's Lost Cajun Kitchen in Columbia to stop discriminating against … More »
FFRF racks up victories in four states
11/28/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has racked up four solid victories in the past several weeks on behalf of the separation of state and church. Victories in Kansas and Michigan will remove direct endorsements of God and Christianity from public schools and government property. Texas … More »
Buhler mayor to remove cross from city logo
11/27/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has successfully petitioned the city of Buhler to remove a cross from its official seal — and now we need your help to sustain the victory. FFRF Staff Attorney Patrick Elliott wrote to Mayor Daniel Friesen on Sept. 14, urging … More »
FFRF places its natural nativity scene, winter solstice sign in Wis. Capitol Rotunda
11/26/2012 · 'Tis the season . . . for the Freedom From Religion Foundation's gilt Winter Solstice message, which returns today, for its 17th visit to the first-floor rotunda of the Wisconsin State Capitol now through the month of December. Today also marks the second coming of … More »
Christmas cross won’t return to Illinois water tower
11/21/2012 · The village of Alsip, Ill., will not display a Latin cross on the village water tower this holiday season after receiving notice from the Freedom From Religion Foundation, a state/church watchdog, that the practice is unconstitutional. The annual display of an illuminated cross each December … More »
FFRF’s friendly neighborhood atheist billboard defaced in Portland
11/21/2012 · A billboard whose purpose was to introduce Portlanders to their “friendly neighborhood atheists” was defaced recently. The billboard is located on Highway 99E at Ross Island Bridge, Portland, Ore. The billboard features the genial image of Mark Hecate, who is an I.T. director for a local … More »
Hallelujah! Reason prevails in Santa Monica
11/19/2012 · A federal judge today denied a Christian group's attempt to force Santa Monica officials to re-open spaces in city parks for private displays, including Christian nativity scenes. U.S. District Court Judge Audrey Collins denied a motion for a preliminary injunction to a religious right … More »
Policy would have barred Jefferson?
11/16/2012 · Below is a copy of the letter FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor sent to the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors today in response to their newly adopted prayer policy. Click here to view the letter as a PDF. November 16, 2012 Mr. Richard C. Flora ( … More »
FFRF sues IRS to enforce church electioneering ban
11/14/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is taking the Internal Revenue Service to court over its failure to enforce electioneering restrictions against churches and religious organizations, calling it a violation of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment and of FFRF’s equal protection rights. FFRF … More »
A loss for reason
11/13/2012 · The U.S. Supreme Court today denied a petition for a writ of certiorari by the Freedom From Religion Foundation and its Spartanburg co-plaintiffs, asking the court to rule against academic credit for release-time instruction in Spartanburg (S.C.) public schools. The petition, filed by attorney George … More »
FFRF asks Obama to drop religion in presidential oath
11/9/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has sent a letter to President Obama asking him to reject the way this country politicizes religion. The Constitution, which prescribes the oath in Art. 2, Sect. 1, does not contain the “so help me God” language or require … More »
FFRF contests bishops' electioneering
11/7/2012 · In letters to the Internal Revenue Service, the Freedom From Religion Foundation has reported possible illegal political campaign intervention by Catholic bishops in Green Bay and Madison, Wis. In a Nov. 1 letter to the IRS office in Dallas which oversees "exempt organizations classification," FFRF … More »
FFRF contests city's prayer breakfast involvement
11/6/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation sent a letter of complaint Nov. 6 to Mayor J. Michael Houston in Springfield, Ill., about illegal city involvement with the Nov. 13 Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. FFRF, a national nonprofit with over 19,000 members, including 675 in Illinois, works to … More »
FFRF questions 'vote biblical' campaign
11/5/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has filed a report with the Internal Revenue Service over illegal political campaigning by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA). BGEA, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, has run full-page ads publicizing Billy Graham's call for the electorate to “vote biblical values.” The … More »
School board prayer out, silence in
10/31/2012 · Another Pennsylvania school board has decided to drop prayer at board meetings after getting a letter from FFRF. That means FFRF is batting 5 for 5 in recent challenges to prayers by Keystone State school boards. Senior Staff Attorney Rebecca Markert wrote Aug. 17 on … More »
Billy Graham ministry crosses line with 'coded' ads
10/29/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation condemns as "blatant politicking" full-page ads by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, which make clear whom Graham wants voters to choose for president and U.S. Senate. The ministry ran ads in Sunday's New York Times and in the Wisconsin … More »
FFRF warns another school on bible banners
10/26/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation sent a letter of complaint Oct. 26 to Autauga County Schools Superintendent Spence Agee in Prattville, Ala., after being contacted by a concerned district alumnus about religious banners displayed by Marbury High School cheerleaders at football games for players … More »
'No room at the inn' in Henderson County for dissent
10/26/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation received word on Oct. 24 that Henderson County, Texas, is refusing to permit it to post an “equal time” display on courthouse grounds by the large Christian nativity display dominating an entire corner. The devotional display is lit at … More »
FFRF calls for IRS to investigate "Vote for the Mormon" church marquee
10/25/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Internal Revenue Service to investigate an egregious case of illegal campaign activity at a church in Leakey, Texas. FFRF has received numerous complaints about Church in the Valley's blatant attempt to dish out political propaganda over its … More »
FFRF seeks Texas plaintiffs to challenge cheerleading practice
10/18/2012 · "There is no such source and cause of strife, quarrel, fights, malignant opposition, persecution, and war, and all evil in the state, as religion. Let it once enter our civil affairs, our government would soon be destroyed. Let it once enter our common schools, … More »
15 secular billboards are up in Portland
10/18/2012 · Portland, Ore., was not only the setting for the Freedom From Religion Foundation's 35th national convention last weekend, attracting nearly 900 attendees, but for a bright new billboard campaign featuring 15 area freethinkers and families. The three 14x48-foot bulletins and 12 EcoPosters (10-foot x 22.8-inch billboards) … More »
Texas AG stirs up wrath against atheists
10/17/2012 · by Dan Barker and Annie Laurie GaylorFFRF Co-Presidents Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has crossed the line from carrying out his secular constitutional duties to defend the state of Texas, to using his government bully pulpit to bully and scapegoat atheists. At a press conference earlier … More »
FFRF stops illegal city collaboration with church
10/8/2012 · The city of West Linn, Ore., rescinded an unconstitutional grant to Willamette Christian Church after a Sept. 28 Freedom From Religion Foundation letter of complaint. It came to FFRF's attention that the West Linn City Council had approved a $1,300 grant to the church, ostensibly … More »
FFRF to blitz Portland with cheery atheist/secular messages
10/5/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation will be making its mark next week as 880 of its members from around the country visit Portland to attend FFRF’s 35th national convention. Helping to celebrate the occasion are more than 15 Portland-area FFRF members or families who … More »
Florida sheriff prays for end in crime
10/4/2012 · View a PDF version of this letter here. Sheriff Jerry L. DemingsOrange County Sheriff's Office PO Box 1440 Orlando, FL 32802-1440 Re: Orange County Sheriff using 40 days of prayer to lower crime Dear Sheriff Demings: I am writing on behalf of the Freedom From Religion Foundation (“FFRF”) … More »
‘Pulpit Freedom Sunday’ turns clergy into outlaws
10/4/2012 · This Sunday, Oct. 7, many ministers across the nation will purposefully violate the law from their pulpits. Called “Pulpit Freedom Sunday,” the day has been marked by the Alliance Defending Freedom (formerly the Alliance Defense Fund) for preachers to openly endorse and oppose candidates … More »
FFRF files amicus brief in Texas prayer banner case
10/3/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has filed an amicus brief on behalf of the Kountze Independent School District, Kountze, Texas, which had ordered cheerleaders to stop holding Christian prayer banners for football players to run through while entering the stadium. A typical banner read, "But … More »
Help fund FFRF's work through CFC
10/3/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has once again qualified for inclusion in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). The CFC is the only officially sanctioned program for soliciting federal government employees on behalf of charitable organizations. The CFC conducts annual campaigns in the workplace and allows … More »
Pa. Judge: Dismisses FFRF suit but chastises pandering House
10/1/2012 · U.S. District Judge Christopher Conner today dismissed the Freedom From Religion Foundation's lawsuit against officials of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for declaring 2012 as "the Year of the Bible," while at the same time chastening state officials for "premeditated pandering" for religious and … More »
FFRF gets church property on tax rolls
10/1/2012 · A Freedom From Religion Foundation letter of complaint Aug. 21 about a wrongful religious tax exemption in Wichita, Kan., resulted in the property being put back on the tax rolls and back taxes assessed.Staff Attorney Patrick Elliott wrote to Sedgwick County Appraiser Mike Borchard … More »
Texas AG attacks FFRF, butts into banner case
9/28/2012 · Once again, Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has inappropriately weighed in on the wrong side of a Texas state/church controversy involving the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Last December, Abbott sent to a letter to Henderson County over FFRF's complaint about a nativity scene at … More »
FFRF takes Ten Commandments to court
9/27/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation filed a lawsuit today in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania in Pittsburgh against the Connellsville Area School District for maintaining a Ten Commandments momument at the Connellsville, Pa., Junior High School. FFRF, on behalf of local … More »
FFRF helps save Tucson taxpayers $1.1 million
9/25/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has received word that the Tucson City Council has permanently suspended its decision to grant $1.1 million to the Catholic Diocese of Tucson to repair the Church’s Marist Building. FFRF Staff Attorney Andrew Seidel had written an Aug. 7 letter … More »
New FFRF billboard goes up in Missouri
9/24/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has placed a bold 14x48-foot billboard bulletin saying “Ban Marriage Between Church and State” in Smithville, Mo., in America’s heartland. FFRF’s bright purple billboard, adorned with a background rainbow, is hard to miss. It was placed to counter a … More »
Lord’s Prayer out, silence in
9/20/2012 · Another Pennsylvania school board has decided to drop prayer at board meetings after getting a letter from the Freedom From Religion Foundation.The Octorara Area School Board in Atglen voted Sept. 17 to substitute a moment of silence for Christian prayer to open meetings.FFRF Senior … More »
Texas school halts football bible banners
9/19/2012 · The Kountze High School Lions will no longer run through banners inscribed with religious messages before the start of football games in Kountze, Texas.On Sept. 17, Stephanie Schmitt, Freedom From Religion Foundation staff attorney wrote Superintendent Kevin Weldon of the Kountze Independent School District:"It is … More »
Christian prayers dropped at UTK after FFRF complaint
9/19/2012 · As a result of a recent complaint by the Freedom From Religion Foundation, it appears sectarian prayer by Christian clergy over the loudspeaker at University of Tennessee-Knoxville football games will be dropped. FFRF complained Sept. 13 to Chancellor Jimmy Cheek about the practice, in which an … More »
Another Pennsylvania school board drops prayer
9/18/2012 · The Grove City [Pa.] Area School District Board of School Directors voted Sept. 10 "to eliminate prayer" at meetings, according to a Sept. 13 letter to the Freedom From Religion Foundation. School Solicitor Timothy McNickle was responding to a July 10 letter of … More »
Albuquerque chapter celebrates ‘Constitution Day’
9/17/2012 · Freedom From Religion -Albuquerque, the Freedom From Religion Foundation's chapter in Albuquerque, N.M., is placing a paid advertisement in the the Albuquerque Journal on Monday, Sept. 17, "Constitution Day." The U.S. Constitution was ratified on Sept. 17, 1787. The ad takes umbrage … More »
FFRF sues to remove decalogue from Pa. high school
9/14/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation filed a federal lawsuit today against New Kensington-Arnold School District to remove a prominent Ten Commandments monument from the grounds of Valley High School, New Kensington, Pa. FFRF, a Madison, Wis.-based nonprofit state/church watchdog with 18,500 nonreligious members including more … More »
FFRF claims victory in Ridgeland school coach complaint
9/13/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has followed up on Walker County Schools’ (Ridgeland, Ga.) response to its request to investigate unusual constitutional violations by Ridgeland High School football coach Mark Mariakis. Although praising the superintendent’s “commitment to upholding the Constitution,” the letter raised some … More »
Help block prayer from UTC football field
9/13/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation scored a touchdown against football prayer at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga this week. The pre-game prayer, which typically included a reference to 'Jesus Christ,' was traditionally delivered by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and had been a home game … More »
It's FFRF's "Just Pretend" vs. The Gideons
9/10/2012 · A nonreligious Canadian family has been battling distribution of Gideon bibles in their Ontario public schools by asking the schools to distribute Just Pretend: A Freethought Book for Children, written by Dan Barker and published by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. It was announced last … More »
FFRF will sue New Kensington, Connellsville if they don’t remove Ten Commandments
9/10/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has sent demand letters to two Pennsylvania school districts, warning that if FFRF did not receive word by Friday, Sept. 7 that the districts were removing illegal Ten Commandment markers on school property, it and local plaintiffs will sue … More »
View FFRF's 'God Fixation' billboards in Charlotte
9/5/2012 · (A special thanks to FFRF member Florent Rizvanolli, pictured above.) In time for the Democratic National Convention, the Freedom From Religion Foundation has placed a patriotic message with a secular twist on two prominent billboards in Charlotte, N.C. The billboard, drawn by editorial cartoonist Steve Benson, … More »
Atheist/agnostic group places gentle secular message in Charlotte
8/31/2012 · Click to enlarge image In time for the Democratic National Convention, the Freedom From Religion Foundation has placed a patriotic message with a secular twist on two prominent billboards in Charlotte, N.C. The billboard, drawn by editorial cartoonist Steve Benson, depicts Uncle Sam wagging his … More »
CORRECTION: “No such thing as free legal representation”
8/30/2012 · A press release issued by the Freedom From Religion Foundation on Aug. 27, 2012, contained an error. The press release unintentionally and mistakenly identified (without using his name) the dean of Liberty University School of Law (whom FFRF also identified as a founder of … More »
FFRF erases prayer from Pennsylvania school board agenda
8/29/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has been successful in removing prayer from the Big Spring School Board meeting agenda in Newville, Pa. School board president Wilbur Wolf told The Sentinel yesterday that "prayer will be removed from future meeting agendas to avoid the potential … More »
FFRF parish exemption case clears hurdle
8/29/2012 · A district court gave the green light to the right of the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s nonbelieving directors to continue their challenge of the parish exemption giving preferential tax benefits to “ministers of the gospel.” U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb, Western District of Wisconsin, issued … More »
(Photograph) FFRF's "God fixation" caveat flies in Tampa
8/28/2012 · Please view photograph below of the Freedom From Religion Foundation's election-year caveat, a billboard that went up Thursday in time to greet GOP convention-goers in Tampa, on Kennedy Boulevard, 50 feet west of Arrawana Street. (The same message will be going up on two … More »
Irish atheists feed hungry Wisconsinites
8/27/2012 · Atheist Ireland has donated $100 to the Hunger Task Force via the Freedom From Religion Foundation in response to FFRF's recent victory ending Irish Fest's discriminatory Catholic Mass discount in Milwaukee, Wis. Michael Nugent (photo), chairperson of Atheist Ireland wrote to Irish Fest officials: Thank … More »
'Act of God' doesn't stop atheist message in Tampa
8/27/2012 · Click image for larger high-resolution version A secular message from nonbelievers is greeting GOP convention-goers in Tampa — courtesy of the Freedom From Religion Foundation, the nation's largest association of freethinkers (atheists and agnostics). FFRF's patriotic red-white-and-blue message, depicting a finger-wagging Uncle Sam cautioning that … More »
“No such thing as free legal representation”
8/27/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation, which has called for an investigation into proselytizing by a coach, advised Walker County Schools (Ga.) in an Aug. 27 follow-up letter to avoid “self-serving and misleading” offers of pro bono legal representation. The Aug. 27 letter by FFRF … More »
FFRF brings election-year caveat to RNC, DNC
8/23/2012 · Click image for larger high-resolution version The Freedom From Religion Foundation will be urging Republicans (next week) and Democrats (in two weeks) to stay out of the religion business, with billboards in Tampa, Fla., and Charlotte, N.C. FFRF is placing billboards in both cities hosting … More »
Ohio newspaper censors FFRF ad criticizing Catholic Church
8/23/2012 · A full-page prepaid ad (click on the image to enlarge) by the Freedom From Religion Foundation which had been accepted more than a month ago to run on Saturday, Aug. 25, was summarily refused a few days before publication by the Daily Standard in … More »
Wichita politician lives in church house, church avoids taxes
8/22/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is asking a Sedgwick County appraiser to investigate a misuse of a church parsonage exemption claimed on the home of a Kansas state Senate candidate. FFRF is a national state-church watchdog based in Madison, Wis., with over 19,000 members … More »
FFRF intercepts prayer-football entanglement
8/22/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation, a national state-church watchdog that has directed a lot of attention toward ending Tennessee constitutional violations in schools recently, and has awarded three Tennessee student activist awards this year, has written yet another letter to a Georgia school over … More »
FFRF contests Pennsylvania prayers
8/22/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has sent letters of complaint to four Pennsylvania school district boards to inform members that their prayers at meetings are unconstitutional. Senior Staff Attorney Rebecca Markert sent letters to the Octorara Area School Board in Atglen, the Eastern Lancaster County … More »
FFRF is successful in ending Milwaukee Irish Fest violation
8/16/2012 · Irish Fest organizers in Milwaukee announced today that they are dropping a promotion that violated civil rights laws by rewarding Mass attendance, in response to a complaint from the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Irish Fest will now offer everyone who drops off a food … More »
FFRF piece to air on national public TV affiliates
8/13/2012 · If video does not appear, click here to watch the 5:30 “Spotlight On!” A short first-of-its-kind feature spot, “Spotlight on Freethought and the First Amendment,” produced in conjunction with the Freedom From Religion Foundation, begins airing on select national public television affiliates Saturday, Aug. 18. … More »
FFRF spotlights Milwaukee discrimination
8/13/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation continues to challenge a discriminatory church discount that rewards people who attend Catholic Mass with free Sunday admission at Irish Fest in Milwaukee. This year the annual event is Aug. 16-19 at the city-owned Henry Maier Festival Park. FFRF, a … More »
FFRF and Whiteville settle lawsuit over crosses
8/9/2012 · U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Breen approved a settlement yesterday between the Freedom From Religion Foundation and the Town of Whiteville, Tenn. The Agreed Judgment ends a lawsuit brought by FFRF against the town and its mayor, James Bellar, over several crosses on town … More »
FFRF picks Portland for 35th national convention
8/9/2012 · (Pictured from left to right: Richard Dawkins, Sara Paretsky, Julia Sweeney and Jessica Ahlquist) Statistics show about one-fourth of Oregon adults (more than 700,000 people) are nonreligious, so wouldn't it be a good place to hold a convention for religious skeptics? Yes, says the Freedom From … More »
FFRF hopes to wash out discriminatory water park discount
8/8/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Willow Springs Water Park in Little Rock, Ark., to discontinue a church discount next season. Willow Springs Water Park owner David Ratliff offered a special Monday promotion to church groups for five dollars per person. Leifel … More »
FFRF asks school to quit indoctrinating
8/7/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has sent multiple letters to Shenendehowa Central Schools (Clifton Park, N.Y.) urging it to follow court precedent and personal conscience by removing prayerful songs from its music classes. FFRF is a national state-church watchdog based in Madison, Wis., with over … More »
FFRF awards 12-year-old freethinker for student activism
8/6/2012 · Maia Disbrow, a 12-year-old from Hixson, Tenn., has received $1,000 as a student activist from the Freedom From Religion Foundation this month, for speaking before the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners to ask them to drop government prayer. She becomes the fifth and youngest student … More »
Augusta mayor satiates FFRF's appetite for secular gov't
8/3/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation commends the city of Augusta for agreeing to discontinue its involvement in organizing, coordinating and promoting the monthly "Mayor's Prayer Breakfasts." FFRF Senior Staff Attorney Rebecca Markert received a two-page response from the Augusta Law Department on August 2. General … More »
FFRF cautions Steubenville ‘not to be duped’ by religious right offers
8/2/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has cautioned the City of Steubenville, Ohio, to place the Constitution and taxpayers’ pockets over risky offers by religious right groups to fight FFRF to keep a cross on its city logo. FFRF had sent a letter to the city … More »
Chick-fil-A lays an egg
7/31/2012 · Two things the world doesn’t need any more of: fast-food chains, and the Christian-right entrepreneurs who profit from them. Chick-fil-A owner Dan Cathy is in hot water, and deservedly so, for telling Baptist Press he operates his chain “on biblical principles” and has an established … More »
Atheist former Boy Scouts say ‘Shame on BSA’
7/30/2012 · Left Photo: William Dusenberry. Right Photo: William van Druten. Two atheists active with their FFRF chapters who are former Boy Scouts have had it with Boy Scouts of America. They are encouraging other former Boy Scouts to speak out, return medals to BSA or … More »
FFRF victory: Cross removed from Steubenville logo
7/25/2012 · Left: This logo is being retired. Right: This older logo is the temporary replacement. A complaint by the Freedom From Religion Foundation over inclusion of a chapel with a cross atop it on the new seal for Steubenville, Ohio, has resulted in a victory. The city … More »
Spokane and Idaho nontheists come ‘Out of the Closet’ in billboard blitz
7/25/2012 · Seven myth-dispelling billboards featuring Spokane-area nonbelievers and families are appearing this week for a month-long campaign, as part of an “Out of the Closet” project by the Freedom From Religion Foundation and its Spokane chapter, the Inland Northwest Freethought Society. The billboards feature the friendly … More »
“Nones” climb to 19%
7/20/2012 · America’s “Nones” — the nonreligious — are at an all-time high, now comprising nearly one in five Americans (19%), according to a new study by the Pew Center for the People and the Press. The 19% count is based on aggregated surveys of 19,377 people … More »
FFRF laments ‘drought of common sense’
7/20/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to stick to science and leave religion out of drought policy. At a July 18 White House press conference, Vilsack said, “I get on my knees every day, and I’m saying an extra … More »
Don’t ‘discount’ civil rights
7/19/2012 · ‘Cautious, careful people always casting about to preserve their reputation and social standing, never can bring about a reform. Those who are really in earnest must be willing to be anything or nothing in the world's estimation, and publicly and privately, in season and … More »
Election year caveat goes up in Wenatchee, Okanogan
7/19/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation, with the help of area secularists, has placed an election-year caveat, “God and government are a dangerous mix,” on a red-white-and-blue billboard at the intersection of South Mission Street and Ferry, facing south, in Wenatchee, Wash. An identical billboard … More »
FFRF tells Augusta Mayor eggs and bacon need a side of toast, not prayer
7/18/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is renewing its request that Augusta Mayor Deke Copenhaver "cease all organization of the monthly Mayor's Prayer Breakfasts." FFRF first wrote to Copenhaver about these illegal, city-sanctioned prayer breakfasts in June. Yesterday, the group sent a second letter of … More »
Ellwood City saga ends in victory
7/17/2012 · Seven months after the Freedom From Religion Foundation first protested a city nativity scene, the Ellwood City Borough Council (Pa.) has agreed to uphold the First Amendment. The council voted down a proposal Monday night that would likely have brought the nativity back to … More »
Georgia school district ignores the U.S. Constitution
7/13/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has sent a follow-up letter to Houston County (Ga.) Schools documenting rampant and egregious violations of the First Amendment. FFRF, a state-church watchdog, is also the nation’s largest assocation of freethinkers with more than 18,500 members, including 369 in Georgia. FFRF … More »
FFRF silences unlawful Christian prayer in Henrico County, Va.
7/12/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has halted illegal prayer before Henrico County Board of Supervisor meetings in Henrico, Va. Henrico County officials decided to drop the 25-year-old tradition on Tuesday after the group received a letter of complaint from FFRF Staff Attorney Patrick Elliott, … More »
FFRF seeks review of released time ruling in South Carolina
7/12/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has filed a petition with the Fourth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals seeking its review of a decision by a three-judge panel approving academic credit for released time instruction. FFRF, and two sets of parent plaintiffs with children in the … More »
Moyers interviews Philip Appleman, freethought poet laureate
7/9/2012 · Watch Bill Moyers' interview with Philip Appleman. Trouble viewing embedded video? Click here to watch. If you missed Bill Moyers' interview of FFRF After-Life Member Philip Appleman, the distinguished poet, scholar and freethinker, on PBS over the weekend, don't worry! The touching and powerful interview … More »
U.S. Army: We Want YOU! to mow the Catholic charities’ lawn
7/6/2012 · The Regimental Noncommissioned Officer Academy’s Advanced Leader Course (ALC) at Fort Gordon, Ga., is ordering soldiers to “provide area beautification support to the Catholic Social Services of Augusta, Ga.” A joint letter drafted by Freedom From Religion Foundation Attorney Andrew Seidel and American Atheists protests … More »
Giles case settled: Ten Commandments removed
7/6/2012 · U.S. District Court Judge Michael Urbanski accepted a settlement and ended the lawsuit between a Giles County, Va., parent and student and the Giles County School Board on July 3. Attorneys for the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia and the Freedom From Religion … More »
FFRF brings JFK billboard to Lubbock
7/5/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has placed a new 14'x48' billboard featuring the words of John F. Kennedy on the west side of Interstate 27 one mile north of the Lubbock International Airport in Lubbock, Texas. The billboard will be up for at least … More »
Pennsylvania restaurant offers unlawful church discount
7/5/2012 · Restaurant owners in Columbia, Pa., are facing an open investigation into an illegal church bulletin discount. Lost Cajun Kitchen in Columbia offers an illegal ten percent discount to church-going patrons. And advertises the coupon on the company website. FFRF and … More »
FFRF seeks review of Fourth Circuit’s “misguided” decision
7/5/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation announced that it will seek an en banc review of a decision last Friday by a three-judge panel of the Fourth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which approved academic credit for released time instruction. FFRF, and two sets of … More »
FFRF stands with Air Force against religious attacks
7/2/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta to stand firm against unfounded criticism from 66 Republican members of Congress alleging that the U.S. Air Force is “hostile towards religion.” The attack was led by Rep. Diane Black, R-Tenn. … More »
FFRF’s ‘Quit the Catholic Church’ ad runs July 4 in LA Times
7/2/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is taking its provocative full-page ad, “It’s Time to Quit the Catholic Church,” to the Los Angeles Times on Wed., July 4. In the ad, FFRF, a state/church watchdog and the nation’s largest atheist/agnostic association with over 18,500 members … More »
Contraceptive mandate issue remains timely
6/28/2012 · Watch 30-second ad recorded by Julia Sweeney for TV. Trouble viewing embedded video? Click here to watch. The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s TV ad currently playing around the country, countering the Catholic bishops’ war against contraception, remains timely and current after today’s decision by the … More »
Celebrating 50th anniversary of landmark prayer case
6/25/2012 · Photo: Brent Nicastro Today is the 50th anniversary of the Engel decision. I write in remembrance and appreciation. Engel v. Vitale was decided 7-1 on June 25, 1962, in a truly landmark Supreme Court case, regarding prayer in public schools. The Engel decision … More »
Reason prevails over Mt. Soledad cross violation
6/25/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation sends its warmest congratulations and thanks to Steve Trunk, whose legal challenge of a huge cross on public property masquerading as a war memorial was vindicated today by the U.S. Supreme Court. The court let stand Trunk’s Ninth Circuit … More »
Look for FFRF’s ‘counter the bishops’ TV blitz airing now!
6/21/2012 · Watch 30 second ad recorded by Julia Sweeney for TV. Trouble viewing embedded video? Click here to watch. The Freedom From Religion Foundation is storming the “Bishops’ Bastille” in an unprecedented TV ad campaign to counter the Roman Catholic Church’s inquisition against contraceptive insurance coverage. … More »
FFRF billboard takes Texas bishops to task
6/21/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has placed a 14x48-foot billboard (things are bigger in Texas) in patriotic colors off busy Interstate 30 east of Highway 360 in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. It will be up for a month. The message, aimed at Roman Catholics, urges … More »
FFRF’s ‘Quit the Church’ billboard hits Times Square
6/20/2012 · Although Times Square is home to many provocative images, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is upping the ante with its patriotic red-white-and-blue billboard placed this week on Times Square saying: “Quit the Church. Put Women’s Rights Over Bishops Wrongs.” The message is in direct response … More »
FFRF rebuts Catholic Bishops’ ‘religious freedom’ propaganda
6/20/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is fighting back against an offensive by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and its upcoming “fortnight for freedom.” Like a secular David defending himself against Goliath, FFRF has launched an opening volley against the monolithic church and its … More »
Julia Sweeney radio ad starts on Randi Rhodes Show
6/13/2012 · Watch 30 second ad recorded by Julia Sweeney for TV. Trouble viewing embedded video? Click here to watch. FFRF’s radio ad starring Julia Sweeney and countering the Catholic Bishops’ war against contraception began airing this week on the Randi Rhodes Show: Hi, I’m Julia Sweeney and … More »
FFRF 'enlightens' prayer pushing governor
6/12/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has protested Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant's recent declaration about the importance of public school prayer. "As you are certainly aware, the United States Supreme Court has held that public officials may not seek to advance or promote … More »
FFRF to appeal dismissal of nativity scene suit
6/11/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation, a national state/church watchdog based in Madison, Wis., plans to appeal the decision by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit in Cincinnati. FFRF filed … More »
Student plaintiffs join FFRF prayer suit
6/11/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation filed an amended complaint today in its lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Columbia, S.C., against School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties over a district policy that sanctions graduation prayer. Joining FFRF's co-plaintiff Matthew Nielson, … More »
Watch Sneak Preview of FFRF TV commercial starring Julia Sweeney
6/8/2012 · Watch 30 second ad recorded by Julia Sweeney for TV. Trouble viewing embedded video? Click here to watch. Julia Sweeney, one of America’s most famous former Catholics as actress and playwright of “Letting Go of God,” stars in a new TV and radio ad just … More »
FFRF contests two Georgia school commencement ‘services’
6/5/2012 · Divine intervention won't help a Georgia superintendent defend the religious sermons he delivered during two May 26 graduation ceremonies in Perry, Ga. Freedom From Religion Foundation Staff Attorney Andrew Seidel has written two letters to Houston County Schools Superintendent James Hines requesting … More »
Lake Hypatia 2012
6/1/2012 · The 23rd annual Independence Weekend Celebration at Lake Hypatia, Ala., is set for June 29 through July 1 at FFRF’s southern Freethought Hall and Freethought Advance near Talladega. The event is hosted by the Alabama Freethought Society (an FFRF chapter) and its director Patricia Cleveland … More »
FFRF’s ‘Quit the Catholic Church’ ad in weekend USA Today
6/1/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s signature full-page ad, “It’s Time to Quit the Catholic Church,” is in today’s USA Today (Money Section), which stays on the newsstands all weekend. The ad by FFRF, a state/church watchdog and the nation’s largest atheist/agnostic association with over … More »
FFRF sues South Carolina school district
5/30/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation and one of its South Carolina members filed a lawsuit today in U.S. District Court in Columbia, S.C., against School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties over a district policy that sanctions graduation prayer. Plaintiff Matthew Nielson graduated … More »
FFRF plans to sue over student prayer vote
5/29/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation plans to bring a lawsuit against School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties for sanctioning graduation prayer at Irmo High School in Irmo, S.C. FFRF is a national nonprofit with over 18,000 members across the country, including over 100 … More »
Calling on patriotic freethinkers to stand up to Catholic bullies
5/24/2012 · Dear FFRF Member: It's time for all good freethinkers to come to the aid of our secular Constitution and civil rights! The Roman Catholic Church is due to unveil a multimillion dollar campaign in the two weeks leading up to July 4, attacking the Obama … More »
Georgians want school prayer referendum
5/24/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation sent a warning letter May 24 to Columbus, Ga., Mayor Teresa Tomlinson to head off endorsement by the City Council of a proposed statewide referendum to allow organized prayer and bible study in public schools. FFRF works to … More »
FFRF contests pastor’s politicking, hate speech
5/23/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has alerted the Internal Revenue Service about potentially illegal political campaign activities by Pastor Charles Worley at the Providence Road Baptist Church in Maiden, N.C. FFRF is a nationwide nonprofit with more than 18,000 members, which works to … More »
FFRF objects to board's exclusively Christian prayer
5/22/2012 · What's the purpose of invoking Jesus' name before discussing whether to raise sewer and water rates or if Joe Blow qualifies for a variance to the zoning code? In a May 21 letter to the Hamilton County Commission in Chattanooga, Tenn., the Freedom … More »
FFRF contests blatant religious subsidy
5/21/2012 · The city of West Lafayette, Ind., cannot legally subsidize Faith Ministries' Faith West Project with $7 million in economic development revenue bonds, FFRF Co-President Dan Barker said in a May 21 letter of complaint to Mayor John Dennis and the City Council. FFRF, … More »
FFRF calls for removal of Bradford County Ten Commandments
5/15/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation urges the Bradford County, Fla., Commission to remove the recently placed Ten Commandments display from outside the County Courthouse. FFRF is a national state/church watchdog with over 18,000 members nationwide, including more than 850 in Florida. … More »
FFRF stands up for voter rights in North Carolina
5/11/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation has sent a follow-up letter to Houston County (Ga.) Schools documenting rampant and egregious violations of the First Amendment. FFRF, a state-church watchdog, is also the nation’s largest assocation of freethinkers with more than 18,500 members, including 369 in Georgia. FFRF … More »
Gubernatorial Colorado Day of Prayer proclamations unconstitutional
5/10/2012 · A unanimous three-judge panel of the Colorado Court of Appeals ruled today in favor of the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s challenge, originally filed in 2008, against gubernatorial proclamations of a Colorado Day of Prayer. … More »
FFRF’s ‘Quit the Catholic Church’ ad in today’s Washington Post
5/8/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s full-page ad, “It’s Time to Quit the Catholic Church,” runs in today’s Washington Post (A-5 Main), urging liberal and nominal Roman Catholics to “quit” their church over its war against contraception. … More »
FFRF announces fund to aid nonbelieving clergy
5/7/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is announcing the creation of a special fund to help ministers and priests who want to get out of the pulpit. FFRF, along with the Richard Dawkins Foundation for Reason and Science, is a primary sponsor of The Clergy … More »
FFRF: Mayors overstep bounds hosting prayer breakfasts
5/2/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is busy this week protesting all kinds of National Day of Prayer-related entanglements between government and religion, including violations occurring in two separate states involving mayoral-arranged prayer breakfasts observing the day of prayer. FFRF, which represents more than … More »
Ask Obama to end National Day of Prayer
5/2/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging President Obama to protect freedom of conscience by ending the unconstitutional National Day of Prayer. In order to get its 'We the People' petition into the hands of the president, FFRF needs to gather 25,000 … More »
Join Facebook rebellion against Day of Prayer
4/30/2012 · Fed up with the annual government-sponsored National Day of Prayer? Indignant that your president, your governor, perhaps even your mayor, county executive . . . and dogcatcher, are exhorting you to pray, to set aside an entire day for prayer? Congress has designated the … More »
FFRF contests more Rhode Island religion
4/24/2012 · The Freedom From Religion Foundation sent a letter of complaint April 13 to Leo Fontaine, mayor of Woonsocket, R.I., about a Latin cross at city Fire Station No. 2 and religious postings on the Fire Department's website. The cross has been there since 1921 as … More »
FFRF on the Web