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June 1

FFRF lauds poll showing half of Americans lack confidence in God’s existence

A welcome new survey finds that only half of Americans are confident in the existence of God. Less than 50 percent of Americans are now sure God exists, dropping from 60 percent in 2008. The General Social Survey by NORC, the University of Chicago’s research … More »

June 1

FFRF calls out Ariz. school board’s judgmental Christian remarks

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Peoria Unified School District in Arizona to stop its board members from quoting incendiary Christian verses during official meetings. A concerned Peoria Unified School District employee has informed the state/church watchdog that Board Member Heather Rooks has … More »

May 31

Tulsa massacre anniversary, exoneration of ‘witches’ shows power of history

Today marks the 102nd anniversary of the Tulsa massacre — a shameful event that had been erased from American history until recently. This was a heinous slaughter by a white mob of up to 300 African Americans, the permanent displacement of 6,000 Black Tulsans and … More »

May 31

Know your Constitution, FFRF exhorts misinformed Mich. county board

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is attempting to educate a Michigan county that recently passed an unconstitutional resolution. The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners has approved a resolution declaring itself a “Constitutional County.” Vice Chair Sylvia Rhodea justified this resolution by citing a “required affirmation … More »

May 30

FFRF demands that Ark. sheriff’s office end prisoner baptisms

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is telling the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office to immediately stop promoting religion and explicitly affiliating itself with Christianity. FFRF has been alerted that the Sheriff’s Office recently hosted a baptism for inmates in partnership with Kibler Baptist Church. It then … More »

May 30

FFRF condemns Uganda’s draconian anti-gay law

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is condemning the Ugandan president’s catering to the agenda of U.S. Christian groups in signing the most extreme anti-homosexuality law in Africa. Despite an international outcry, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni gave his signature yesterday, May 29, to a measure that … More »

May 25

Abortion rights expert on FFRF Sunday TV show

Watch the preview here. A leading authority on reproductive rights — and the Roe v. Wade case specifically — is the guest on FFRF’s TV show this Sunday. Mary Ziegler, who has been called the nation’s foremost historian of abortion law, is the Martin Luther King … More »

May 24

Good, bad and ugly news on 10 commandments, abortion rights and pedophile priests

  The Freedom From Religion Foundation congratulates the opposition that killed a Texas Ten Commandments-in-the-schools bill, deplores the passage of yet another six-week abortion ban and notes the shocking revelations in Illinois’ investigation of pedophile priests. First the good news: Ding dong, the bill is dead. … More »

May 24

FFRF applauds Fla. school district’s decision to halt graduations in churches

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is commending the Duval County School District in Jacksonville, Fla., for protecting student rights by no longer holding graduation ceremonies in churches. Executive Director of Policy and Compliance for Duval County School District Brian K. McDuffie sent a May 12 … More »

May 23

DeSantis’ takeover of high school athletics assaults student freedom

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is dismayed that Florida public school students will now be subject to a high school athletic association advancing a Christian nationalist agenda. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed into law HB 225, which radically transforms the Florida High School Athletic … More »

May 23

FFRF tells Ohio school board to cease prayers

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Marlington Local Schools Board of Education to immediately stop conducting unconstitutional prayer to open its meetings. A concerned district community member has informed the state/church watchdog that the Marlington Local Schools Board of Education opens each of … More »

May 23

We Dissent: How state/church separation has become ‘heads I win, tails you lose’

The newest episode of “We Dissent” covers the long, complex history of the fight for state/church separation. On episode 18, “We Dissent” hosts FFRF Legal Director Rebecca Markert, FFRF Attorney Liz Cavell and American Atheist Attorney Alison Gill discuss state/church separation with Professor Caroline Corbin, … More »

May 22

Don’t have graduations in a church this Friday, FFRF asks Ohio school district

An Ohio school district shouldn’t hold its upcoming graduation ceremony inside a church, insists the Freedom From Religion Foundation. A concerned Groveport Madison Schools alumnus and community member has informed the state/church watchdog that in keeping with a tradition since 2020, this year’s high school graduation … More »

May 18

'The Daily Show' co-creator interviewed on FFRF TV show Sunday

Watch the preview here. A leading political satirist and co-creator of “The Daily Show” talks on the Freedom From Religion Foundation Sunday TV show about her work and abortion rights advocacy. Lizz Winstead is a political satirist and a pioneering woman comedian who became co-creator and … More »

May 18

Avoid constitutional collision, FFRF advises Portland, Ore., school district

Slam the brakes on a preaching bus driver, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Portland, Ore., school district. A concerned district parent has raised serious concerns about a bus driver proselytizing to students. The parent was rightly alarmed to learn from his children … More »

May 17

FFRF praises Education Dept. guidance on keeping public schools secular

The U.S. Department of Education’s updated guidance for prayer and religious expression in public schools correctly emphasizes that schools must protect students’ religious liberty by remaining secular. Christian nationalists, including some lawmakers, have wrongly asserted that a recent Supreme Court case allows teachers to pray … More »

May 16

VA center in W.Va. removes cross after FFRF objects

A VA facility in West Virginia got rid of a large cross from a screening room after the Freedom From Religion Foundation objected on behalf of a veteran. A concerned community member and disabled veteran informed the state/church watchdog that on a March visit to … More »

May 16

FFRF to Oklahoma: Ban the bible for pornographic material

The Freedom From Religion Foundation, noting that what’s good for the goose is good for the gander, is attempting to persuade the Oklahoma state superintendent of public education to ban the bible. The request comes after a video published on May 1 shows Superintendent Ryan … More »

May 16

No Christian proselytization to schoolchildren, FFRF warns Arkansas school district

Quit imposing Christianity on elementary schoolchildren, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is insisting to an Arkansas school district. Numerous Arkansas citizens have informed the state/church watchdog that Prescott Elementary School recently distributed New Testament Bibles to its fifth and sixth grade students. A May 4 … More »

May 15

FFRF demands Wis. police department not promote upcoming mass

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has complained to the Dane County Sheriff's Office over its inappropriate promotion of a Catholic mass on Tuesday. A concerned Dane County community member informed the state/church watchdog that the Dane County Sheriff's Office has been advertising a Blue Mass … More »

May 12

FFRF: Pope calling abusive priests ‘brothers’ insults abuse victims

The Freedom From Religion Foundation condemns the pope’s recent statement calling pedophile priests “God’s children” in need of “Christian love.” “A god that would produce such ‘children’ is hardly a deity to be honored, much less worshiped,” says FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor. “What about … More »

May 11

FFRF TV show guest tells all about growing up in a cult

Watch the preview here. The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Sunday TV show features as its guest someone who was brought up in a cult — and managed to break free. Michelle Dowd, a journalism professor at Chaffey College in Southern California, reveals on “Freethought Matters” about … More »

May 11

FFRF demands that Conn. police dept. end chaplaincy program

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the East Hartford Police Department to immediately disband a chaplaincy program and the city to cease promotion of it on social media outlets. A concerned East Hartford resident reported that on March 8, multiple Christian religious leaders were … More »

May 9

FFRF Ron Reagan spot blankets TV, including NBC for first time

The iconic ad recorded by Ron Reagan for the Freedom From Religion Foundation will be airing on the national NBC network for the first time — on the longest-running show ever. The spot will appear on “Meet the Press” on Sunday, May 14, and again … More »

May 9

Revoke nonprofit status for three Texas churches, FFRF is asking the IRS

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is demanding that the IRS revoke the tax status of three Texas churches for donating to the campaign of a city council candidate. “Three churches in West Texas have made financial contributions to a pastor running for a hotly contested … More »

May 5

Religion and reproductive justice focus of FFRF Sunday TV show

Watch the preview here. The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Sunday TV show talks about the intersection of religion, abortion, maternal health and reproductive justice — and especially how it affects Black women. The “Freethought Matters” guest is an expert on this issue. Tiffany Green is an … More »

May 3

FFRF ends teacher involvement in Kan. Christian school club

A Kansas school system has ended staff participation in a local Fellowship of Christian Athletes club after the Freedom From Religion Foundation complained. A concerned district parent had informed the state/church watchdog that staff members at Northeast Junior High School in Arma, Kan., had started … More »

May 3

National Day of Reason resolution for May 4 offsets National Day of Prayer

Several forward-thinking members of Congress have introduced a National Day of Reason resolution to counter this Thursday’s National Day of Prayer. Led by Rep. Jared Huffman and Rep. Jamie Raskin, co-chairs of the Congressional Freethought Caucus, a number of legislators are championing a resolution proclaiming … More »

May 2

Calif. charter school promises FFRF secular ceremonies

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has received a welcome promise from a California public charter school that all future school functions will be free from sectarian proselytization. Several concerned parents of students attending Feather River Charter School in Meridian informed the state/church watchdog that during … More »

May 1

Mayday! Mayday! Mayday! Democracy needs you and so does FFRF!

Mayday! Mayday! Secular democracy is capsizing! The Freedom From Religion Foundation is gravely concerned about the state of state/church separation and individual freedoms in the United States. As this is written, we’re readying a lawsuit against the expected passage of a law requiring large Ten Commandments … More »

May 1

FFRF opposes major public school participation in upcoming Mormon Utah event

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is strongly opposing the participation of several Utah school districts in a soon-to-be-held religious concert. Students from as many as 18 Utah school districts and educational institutions are set to take part in the religious Hope of America event scheduled … More »

April 28

We Dissent: The urgency of court reform

On the latest episode of the only all-women secular podcast in the United States, three powerhouse attorneys discuss the timely topic of court reform. “We Dissent” hosts FFRF Legal Director Rebecca Markert, FFRF Attorney Liz Cavell and American Atheist Attorney Alison Gill will be speaking … More »

April 28

Ex-minister spotlights white Christian nationalism dangers on FFRF TV show

Watch the preview here. An evangelical minister-turned-academic who has written a new book warning about the dangers of white Christian nationalism is the guest on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Sunday TV show. Bradley Onishi, an expert on philosophy, theology and American religion with a degree … More »

April 27

FFRF persuades Indiana school board to stop prayer at meetings

A responsive Indiana school board ended prayer at its meetings after the Freedom From Religion Foundation pointed out the constitutional inappropriateness of the practice. A concerned Crawford County resident conveyed to the state/church watchdog that members of the county’s Board of Education regularly opened their … More »

April 27

Ban the bible, national state/church watchdog tells Utah school district

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has contacted a Utah school district that has prohibited at least 33 books to back up a local parent’s request to also ban the bible. After the Davis School District in Farmington, Utah, began purging books containing so-called “pornographic or … More »

April 26

No official burying of bibles, FFRF advises Texas school district

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is in disbelief at a Texas school district’s burying of a bible to commemorate a new building — and the district’s explanation isn’t helping. A concerned Harleton Independent School District alumni and community member informed the state/church watchdog that on … More »

April 25

FFRF ready to take on Texas Ten Commandments edict

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is readying a court challenge of the bill expected to pass the Texas Legislature that would require every public school classroom in Texas to prominently display a copy of the Ten Commandments. It passed the Senate last week, and … More »

April 21

We ‘Nones’ make every day Earth Day

The fact that atheists, agnostics and the religiously unaffiliated are the most likely to recognize that human activity is causing climate change is why we “Nones” must assert ourselves. Nine-in-10 atheists understand that human activity is causing climate change, compared to a narrow majority (53 … More »

April 20

Rise of the ‘Nones’ spotlighted on FFRF TV show Sunday

A leading researcher on the increasingly nonreligious make up of the United States is the guest on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Sunday television show. Eastern Illinois University Professor Ryan Burge specializes in religious demography. He’s the author of the 2021 book The Nones: … More »

April 20

FFRF lambastes Fla. expansion of ‘Don’t Say Gay’ law

Copyright: Ted Eytan The Freedom From Religion Foundation is condemning the Florida Board of Education’s vote on Wednesday to expand the “Don’t Say Gay” law through the 12th grade. The new rule will ban classroom instruction in gender identity and sexual orientation in all grades, expanding … More »

April 19

Rescind religiously slanted noise ordinance, FFRF insists to Minneapolis

The city of Minneapolis should revoke a new ordinance allowing the broadcast of an amplified call to prayer at any time of the day, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is demanding. Multiple concerned residents have informed the state/church watchdog that the city of Minneapolis has … More »

April 18

Supreme Court seems to favor religious workers in key employment case

The U.S. Supreme Court appears ready to change employment law in favor of religious workers, charges the Freedom From Religion Foundation. The court heard arguments today in Groff v. DeJoy, which involves a challenge by a rural postal carrier who is contending that he should … More »

April 17

FFRF calls Wis. AG charges against former cardinal a welcome development

The Freedom From Religion Foundation welcomes a milestone in the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s statewide investigation of clergy abuse. Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul today announced that former Cardinal Theodore McCarrick will be charged with fourth-degree sexual assault of an 18-year-old man in Lake Geneva, … More »

April 14

Abortion crisis shows ‘Comstock Act’ must be repealed now

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is watching with bated breath — along with the rest of our emphatically pro-choice nation — whether the U.S. Supreme Court will let stand yet another anti-abortion ruling that is holding reproductive rights hostage around the country. That pending ruling … More »

April 14

FFRF is elated that Latino “Nones” are increasing

  The Freedom From Religion Foundation is delighted to see a new study showing that half of Latinos born in the United States today identify as religiously unaffiliated (“Nones”). The Pew survey finds that while Catholicism remains the preferred religion among Latinos, Latinos of all ages … More »

April 14

Christian nationalist lawmakers concocting Walter Reed crisis

Christian nationalist lawmakers are crying wolf over a contract termination involving pastoral care at the Walter Reed hospital, asserts the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Dozens of members of Congress are attempting to manufacture a religious crisis after Walter Reed National Military Medical Center chose not … More »

April 13

White Christian nationalism dissected by PRRI founder on FFRF Sunday TV show

Watch the preview hereWatch the preview here. An academic opinion researcher and white Christian nationalism expert analyzes the phenomenon on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s “Freethought Matters” Sunday TV show. Robert P. Jones is the president and founder of Public Religion Research Institute, a nonprofit, nonpartisan … More »

April 13

Baltimore Catholic Church abuse report shocking but not surprising

The Maryland attorney general’s office has released a damning report on child sexual abuse in the Archdiocese of Baltimore — yet another in a long list of bombshell reports from many different states and countries. The report, the result of a grand jury investigation initiated … More »

April 12

Catholic charter school application in Okla. must be rejected

The Freedom From Religion Foundation warns that a constitutional showdown on public funding of parochial school education is occurring in Oklahoma, after the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and the Diocese of Tulsa have applied to create a religious, public-funded charter school. The application, if … More »

April 12

Remove bible verse, FFRF insists to N.C. sheriff

Please immediately get rid of a bible verse displayed in your office, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging a North Carolina sheriff. A concerned Henderson County resident has informed the state/church watchdog that the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office proudly exhibits “Blessed are the peacemakers … More »

April 12

FFRF asks California city council to drop opening prayers

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Huntington Beach City Council to completely end the practice of religious invocations before its meetings. A concerned Huntington Beach resident has reported to the state/church watchdog concerns with the Huntington Beach City Council’s prayer practices and conveyed … More »

April 11

FFRF asks again: Why is this judge allowed to practice medicine without a license?

It’s not a coincidence that a Trump-appointed federal judge handed down an outrageous decision to ban the abortion pill mifepristone on the evening of Good Friday. U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk is a Christian nationalist extremist, whose nomination the Freedom From Religion Foundation actively opposed … More »

April 11

Appeals court correctly rejects religiously motivated bigotry

Copyright: Ted Eytan The Freedom From Religion Foundation is encouraged by an appeals court decision affirming that public schools can require even religious teachers to call transgender students by their preferred names. FFRF filed an amicus brief in the case, Kluge v. Brownsburg Community School Corporation, … More »

April 11

Continue ignoring Liberty Counsel, FFRF tells Va. school district

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is complimenting a Virginia school district for doing the right thing in ignoring a recent misguiding missive from a Christian nationalist group. Liberty Counsel is objecting to Loudoun County Public Schools’ decision requiring a teacher to refrain from using a … More »

April 7

FFRF display returns to Chicago’s Daley Plaza for secular Easter greetings

The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Windy City chapter has put up a display in downtown Chicago to ensure secularism is represented. On Thursday, April 6, FFRF’s Metropolitan Chicago Chapter (FFRFMCC) placed colorful banners in Daley Plaza promoting the secular views of the Founders. One banner reads … More »

April 7

S.C. school district is violating Constitution multiple times, charges FFRF

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is demanding that the superintendent of a South Carolina school district investigate multiple constitutional violations occurring throughout the school system. A concerned Union County Schools community member has informed the state/church watchdog about several such violations. The district allowed Ken … More »

April 7

FFRF ads tell Gov. Huckabee Sanders: You’re right — Schools aren’t for indoctrination

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is running a full-page ad in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette this Sunday with the headline: “Yes, Governor Huckabee-Sanders — You’re Right. ‘Schools must educate, not indoctrinate.’” There the agreement ends. The state/church watchdog, with more than 40,000 members and several chapters nationwide … More »

April 6

Religious delusions expert on FFRF TV show this Sunday

Watch the preview here The fascinating guest on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s “Freethought Matters” TV show Sunday explains why people seem to lose their reasoning when they join a religious movement. William J. Bernstein is a retired neurologist who’s now a financial theorist and writes … More »

April 6

FFRF proposes changing religious oath in N.J.

  The Freedom From Religion Foundation is suggesting a major modification to the unconstitutional religious oath that candidates for office in New Jersey are forced to sign. When the New Jersey Division of Elections was contacted regarding an alternative to the religious wording, it said that … More »

April 5

Thou shalt honor our secular public schools, Texas

It sounds almost like a parody. Today, the Texas Senate Education Committee is entertaining two extremist bills, one requiring that the Ten Commandments be installed in every public classroom and a second to permit schools to hire pastors as chaplains instead of school counselors. "A … More »

April 4

No imaginary solutions to gun violence, FFRF admonishes Tenn. congressman

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is calling out the fact-free remarks that a Tennessee member of Congress has recently made in response to school shootings. On March 30, Rep. Tim Burchett clarified controversial remarks he had made earlier in the week asserting that “we’re not … More »

April 4

FFRF asks Tucson school district to cancel faith-based advisory committee

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has contacted the Tucson Unified School District to express its concerns over the proposed formation of a faith-based advisory committee. FFRF was notified by a concerned community member that the school district recently attempted to establish a “faith-based advisory committee” … More »

April 3

Why ‘parental bill of rights’ bills are really ‘bill of wrongs’

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is warning that so-called “parental rights” bills sweeping the nation have sinister intentions. While appearing to be an innocuous way to strengthen parent involvement in schools, they are a clear attempt to dismantle trust in the public education system and … More »

March 31

FFRF ads tell Gov. Abbott: You’re right — Schools aren’t for indoctrination

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is running a full-page ad in the Austin American-Statesman this Sunday with this headline: “Yes, Governor Abbott — You’re Right. Our schools are for education, not indoctrination.” There the agreement ends. It is Abbott, FFRF charges, who wants to use public … More »

March 30

Clergy abuse activists interviewed on FFRF Sunday TV show

Watch the preview here. The guests on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Sunday “Freethought Matters” TV show have dedicated their lives to helping survivors of clergy child abuse obtain justice. Peter Isley, an advocate against priest abuse and a survivor of childhood sexual assault by a … More »

March 30

No undue religious privilege for workers, FFRF’s brief urges Supreme Court

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is asking the U.S. Supreme Court in an amicus brief not to grant employees religious privileges that harm co-workers, customers and other parties. Gerald Groff was employed as a part-time rural carrier in Pennsylvania, hired to fill in for career … More »

March 30

FFRF stands against trans fearmongering in wake of Nashville shooting

The Freedom From Religion Foundation applauds a student walkout by New Hampshire law students countering anti-trans hate by a local chapter of the Christian Legal Society. Students at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law walked out of class yesterday, March 29, … More »

March 29

FFRF asks IRS to investigate a church's illegal intervention in Wis. Supreme Court election

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is demanding that the IRS immediately investigate a Wisconsin church engaging in politicking. The St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Cottage Grove, Wis., has recently been involved in blatant electioneering, contends the national state/church watchdog. Pastor Brian Dulli used the church … More »

March 29

Pew study shows acceptance of atheists is low but gradually increasing

When you’re at the bottom, you can only go up. That seems to be what is happening with attitudes toward atheists in the United States, according to a recent Pew Research Center study. Americans continue to rate atheists more negatively than positively but atheists have … More »

March 28

Fla. religious charter school agrees that Michelangelo’s ‘David’ is porn

A public charter school’s bizarre decision to force a principal to resign after an image of Michelangelo’s “David” was shown in art class is possibly due to its ties with a Christian entity. Although Florida’s Tallahassee Classical is public, its curriculum, unwisely, is designed by … More »

March 28

American support for LGBTQ rights at odds with state assaults

A new national survey has reassuring findings that Americans of almost all religions and no religion are growing ever more supportive of LGBTQ rights. For instance, eight in 10 Americans (80 percent) in the Public Religion Research Institute survey support laws against discrimination in jobs, … More »

March 27

FFRF warns that Gov. Beshear-signed bill undermines religious liberty

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is dismayed that Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has signed into law a mischief-making bill encouraging teachers to promote their personal religious beliefs. House Bill 547 will prohibit school districts from punishing employees for pushing personal religious views on children and … More »

March 24

FFRF: Uganda death penalty law for gays is work of U.S. missionaries

Photo credit: Alisdare Hickson The Freedom From Religion Foundation is calling for international pressure on Uganda to stand up to American Christian fundamentalists and reject an anti-gay law that the country’s Parliament passed this week. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has 30 days from the date that the … More »

March 23

Christian displays removed from Wisconsin rest stop, thanks to FFRF

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation removed two sectarian religious displays from a local rest stop after the Freedom From Religion Foundation demanded action. The state/church watchdog was informed by a concerned Wisconsin resident that a Latin cross and a sign displaying the bible verse “Blessed … More »

March 23

FFRF announces new lobbying group for state/church separation

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of FFRF Action Fund Inc., which will focus on lobbying and advocacy efforts to promote the rights of nonbelievers and the separation between state and church. FFRF Action Fund is organized as a 501(c)(4) … More »

March 23

Bestselling children author offers secular advice on FFRF TV show Sunday

Watch the preview here. The guest on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Sunday “Freethought Matters” TV show is a bestselling author of self-help books for kids who advises parents not to religiously indoctrinate their children. Joy Berry has written more than 200 books, selling over 85 … More »

March 23

Secular podcast discusses legislative assault on transgender people

This month on the only all-women secular podcast in the United States, three powerhouse attorneys discuss the history of legislative attacks on transgender people. “We Dissent” hosts FFRF Legal Director Rebecca Markert, FFRF Attorney Liz Cavell and American Atheist Attorney Alison Gill have just released … More »

March 23

West Texas A&M University drag show cancellation unconstitutional, says FFRF

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is demanding that West Texas A&M University President Walter Wendler rescind his decision to cancel a student-hosted drag show. Wendler sent an email to students, faculty and staff on March 20 with the subject line “A Harmless Drag Show? No … More »

March 22

FFRF’s Mark on the Hill: How we won on the National Prayer Breakfast

When I first started in the secular movement, if someone wanted me to take action on the National Prayer Breakfast, I used to quietly side-step the conversation. I knew our political hand was weak. If we made a stand against the breakfast, those efforts … More »

March 22

Shocking Texas proposal would destroy state/church separation

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is sounding the tocsin about a proposal in the Texas Legislature that would assault the constitutional wall of separation enshrined in both the state and federal constitutions. The proposal is grandiosely and misleadingly dubbed the “Protection of Religious Liberty from … More »

March 20

FFRF condemns anti-abortion monument to ignorance in Arkansas

Proving the adage that anti-abortionists care about life all the way from conception to . . . birth is passage of a caricature of a law by Arkansas to erect a monument to unborn fetuses on its state Capitol grounds. Let's remember that Arkansas … More »

March 17

FFRF ads tell DeSantis: You’re right — Our schools aren’t for indoctrination

  The Freedom From Religion Foundation is running a full-page ad in both the Tallahassee Democrat and the Miami Herald this Sunday with a surprising headline: “Yes, Governor DeSantis — You’re Right.” Concurs the national state/church watchdog: “Our schools are for education, not indoctrination.” But there … More »

March 16

Minneapolis schools move mandatory staff meetings from church after FFRF intervenes

The Minneapolis Public Schools district has taken action to stop violating the constitutional rights of staff members after being contacted by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. The state/church watchdog was informed by a concerned district employee that the district’s Education Department had been holding quarterly … More »

March 16

Lifelong atheist, actor Madison Arnold is guest on FFRF’s ‘Freethought Matters’ talk show

Watch the preview hereWatch the preview here. Longtime FFRF member and veteran actor Madison Arnold reflects on his near-lifelong atheism and his 50-year acting career on this week’s episode of “Freethought Matters,” FFRF’s weekly TV show. Arnold, who’s been a member of the Freedom From Religion … More »

March 16

FFRF warns about number of ‘Don’t Say Gay’ copycat bills

Photo: Will Larkins - FFRF's Catherine Fahringer Student Activist awardee The Freedom From Religion Foundation is dismayed to see that a number of state legislators have introduced legislation that mirrors Florida’s notorious — and religiously motivated — 2022 “Don’t Say Gay” bill. Now, a year … More »

March 15

Why is this judge allowed to practice medicine without a license?

How can judges be allowed to practice medicine without a license? That’s exactly what appears to be happening in Amarillo, Texas, where a Trump-appointed federal judge seems prepared to ban a drug that helps perform medication abortion. Back in 2019, when Matthew Kacsmaryk was nominated … More »

March 15

FFRF renews call for FEMA to cancel million-dollar-plus Ky. church funding

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is renewing its demand that the Federal Emergency Management Agency rescind a proposed $1 million-plus handout for a Kentucky church/tornado shelter. In 2021, a concerned city resident and taxpayer in Versailles, Ky., had alerted FFRF about an official decision to … More »

March 14

FFRF: Despite court victory, coach Kennedy must respect students’ rights

  As Joe Kennedy announces his return to coaching at Bremerton High School, FFRF is warning that the Supreme Court’s Kennedy v. Bremerton decision doesn’t mean he can go back to imposing religion on students. In a statement on March 8, the First Liberty Institute announced … More »

March 14

FFRF supports new rules for faith-based providers

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has signaled its backing of new rules for handling of government services by faith-based providers — while suggesting how they can be further improved. “These proposed rules largely undo the damage of the current regulations, which are hostile to true … More »

March 14

Israel’s theocratic government imperils all things secular

The current government in Israel, quite certainly the most theocratic in the country’s history, has launched a full-out onslaught on all things secular. More than half of the seats in the ruling coalition belong to far-right parties that are driving the very unsecular official agenda. … More »

March 14

FFRF calls on S.C. county council to remove divisive courthouse religious display

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Laurens County Council to remove a Ten Commandments display from its courthouse. A concerned resident reported to the national state/church watchdog that the county courthouse has a Ten Commandments plaque on display in the hallway next to … More »

March 10

FFRF condemns anti-abortion AGs for intimidating Walgreens

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is dismayed that 20 state attorneys general have tried to pressure major pharmacies not to mail mifepristone to patients — and that, worse still, Walgreens has caved in. Mifepristone is the first pill in a two-drug medication abortion regimen. Medicinal abortions … More »

March 10

FFRF announces $45K prize money in four 2023 student essay contests

The Freedom From Religion Foundation announces its 2023 essay competitions for freethinking students — offering more than $45,000 in total scholarships. Each of these four contests has 10 top prizes: First place — $3,500; second place — $3,000; third place — $2,500; fourth place — … More »

March 9

FFRF convinces Okla. town to remove derogatory religious displays

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has successfully persuaded Lawton, Okla., to remove several disrespectful religious displays from city property. The state/church watchdog was notified of the unconstitutional displays by a local atheist veteran. A sign on the information desk of City Hall read “ONE DIED … More »

March 9

Pentecostalism’s global surge spotlighted on FFRF TV show Sunday

Watch the teaser hereWatch the teaser here. The guest on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s “Freethought Matters” TV show this Sunday warns that Pentecostalism is becoming the ascendant form of Christianity worldwide. Elle Hardy, who joined the show from London, is an Australian-born writer whose new … More »

March 8

Cease Christian prayers at board meetings, FFRF asks Ga. school board

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the immediate end to the practice of an opening religious invocation at meetings of the Ben Hill County Board of Education. The national state/church watchdog has received a complaint from a community member reporting that the board has … More »

March 8

First Liberty Institute shows speciousness in attack on Univ. of Colorado

A Christian Right outfit is displaying illogical reasoning in a controversy involving University of Colorado coach Deion Sanders. The Freedom From Religion Foundation wrote the University of Colorado on Jan. 24 raising serious concerns about its new football coach engaging in prayer with staff members … More »

March 8

FFRF provides vital testimony in two states

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has testified on important issues before two statehouses this week: It opposed the suspension of Wisconsin’s student vaccination policy, and backed a bill to end an unconstitutional Maryland provision barring atheists from holding offices or trusts. The nontheist organization provided … More »

March 6

FFRF brief asks court to yank Ark. Capitol Ten Commandments display

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is among a bevy of plaintiffs asking a federal court for summary judgment to remove a Ten Commandments monument displayed on the Arkansas Capitol grounds. When the Arkansas General Assembly passed Act 1231 of 2015, it created a cascading legal … More »

March 6

FFRF joins 200-plus advocates in abortion appeal to the United Nations

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has joined hundreds of rights advocates in an urgent appeal to U.N. officials to hold the United States accountable for its wrecking of abortion rights. It has been over eight months since the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Dobbs v. … More »

March 3

FFRF appreciates State Department reward for freethinker Avijit Roy’s killers

On the eighth anniversary of his assassination, the Freedom From Religion Foundation appreciates that the State Department is still determined that the killers of Bangladeshi-American freethinker Avijit Roy be brought to justice. “The U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, through its Rewards for Justice … More »

March 3

Look for ‘unabashed atheist’ spot on ‘CBS Sunday Morning’ this month

The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s irreverent ad featuring Ron (“unabashed atheist, not afraid of burning in hell”) Reagan will run on every “CBS Sunday Morning” episode in March, beginning this weekend.  The progressive son of President Ronald and Nancy Reagan invites viewers in the 30-second … More »

March 3

FFRF applauds Biden’s repeal of religious discrimination rule

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is celebrating the Biden administration’s decision to repeal a Trump administration-era rule that allowed federal contractors to discriminate in the name of religion. The Trump rule, proposed in 2019 and enacted in January of 2021, applied a broad interpretation of … More »

March 2

National Prayer Breakfast dissected on FFRF’s Sunday TV show

A leading investigative reporter skewers the quasi-official National Prayer Breakfast on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Sunday “Freethought Matters” TV show. Jonathan Larsen is not only an investigative reporter and managing editor with the news platform TYT, he’s also been involved in some of the … More »

March 2

Minnesota county Ten Commandments display averted — thanks to FFRF

The Freedom From Religion Foundation, a national state/church watchdog, has successfully prevented a Ten Commandments display from going up in a courthouse in Kanabec County, Minn. A concerned community member reported that the Kanabec County Board of Commissioners had voted last December to put on … More »

March 1

Mayor Adams: You’re the servant of the people, not ‘God’

Take back your unconstitutional God-obeisant statements, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is asking the New York City mayor. During a New York Library interfaith prayer breakfast yesterday, Mayor Eric Adams denigrated the separation between state and church and even announced that New York City “is … More »

February 28

Disband religion-pandering committee, FFRF urges Okla. education superintendent

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is strenuously objecting to the Oklahoma state superintendent of public instruction’s recent political prostration before religious ministers. Superintendent Ryan Walters received a letter from several Oklahoma Christian leaders instructing him to use the Department of Education to push prayer and “expressions … More »

February 28

Our rights do not come from ‘God,’ Gov. DeSantis

One of the favorite claims of Christian nationalists is the bogus assertion, most recently repeated by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, that “our rights come from God, not government.” DeSantis pointed out correctly that “the Founders rejected the divine right of kings.” He just missed the … More »

February 28

FFRF demands Pa. school district end partnership with local church

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is insisting that the Canton Area School District immediately end its partnership with a local church. FFRF received a complaint from a concerned member of the school district who reported that assemblies at Canton High School have been regularly opened … More »

February 27

LGBTQ population growth demonstrates even more why bigoted bills must be opposed

A demographic sea change is occurring in the United States. The number of adults identifying as LGBTQ has almost doubled in the last decade, from 3.5 percent in 2012 to 7.2 percent today, according to a new Gallup poll. Age matters, with 20 percent of … More »

February 24

Feminist atheist author, still feisty at 92, on FFRF’s Sunday TV show

Watch the teaser here. A feisty pioneering freethinking feminist author is the guest on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s “Freethought Matters” TV show this Sunday. Barbara G. Walker, originally known as a knitting expert, is the author of the bestselling Woman’s Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets … More »

February 23

FFRF stops Christian class at Ohio primary school

  A legal complaint by the Freedom From Religion Foundation has halted an unconstitutional sectarian Christian class at an elementary school in Leipsic Local School District in Leipsic, Ohio. Leipsic Elementary School had reportedly been holding a weekly sectarian Christian class since at least 2018, in … More »

February 23

All-women secular podcast probes religious anti-discrimination exemption

The only all-women secular podcast in this country tackles in its latest episode the conundrum of why religious institutions outrageously receive an exemption from basic anti-discrimination laws. FFRF Legal Director Rebecca Markert, FFRF Attorney Liz Cavell and American Atheist Attorney Alison Gill have just released … More »

February 22

FFRF urges N.C. county board to nix commissioner-led prayers

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Stokes County Board of Commissioners in North Carolina to immediately end the practice of commissioner-led prayers before each meeting. FFRF had previously contacted the chairman of the Board of Commissioners alerting him to the practice. While FFRF … More »

February 22

DeSantis’ peculiar concept of ‘indoctrination’ disses Black History Month

Have you noticed something weird in the vocabulary of Christian nationalist public officials? They’re all suddenly against indoctrination in our public schools. Sounds good, until you realize what they really mean. “We want education, not indoctrination,” Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has famously said. But, oops … More »

February 22

Reps. Greene and Santos would censor the bible, FFRF warns

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is cautioning two book-banning members of Congress to be careful what they wish for. Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and George Santos, R-N.Y., have co-sponsored HR 863, a book-banning bill. FFRF advises them that this bill could have unforeseen consequences … More »

February 22

Don’t let predatory Baptists return to business as usual

Cory Wall (FBC/social media screenshot) It looks like the Southern Baptist Convention has edged ahead by a nose in an undeclared race with the Catholic Church to see which denomination can victimize more of its members. Even though the Catholics have centuries more predation experience, … More »

February 21

Let’s work for a world in which Pakistani ‘blasphemers’ will not be killed

Earlier this month, a mob broke into a police station in Punjab, Pakistan, dragged a man through the streets and beat him to death. Why? He was accused of “blasphemy.” Muhammad Warris was being held on suspicion of blasphemy. In Pakistan, blasphemy can carry the … More »

February 21

Congressional attempt to abolish Education Department unsettling

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is deeply concerned about a recently introduced congressional bill to abolish the Department of Education. HR 899, proposed by Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., calls for eliminating the Department of Education and would be profoundly harmful for ensuring access to a … More »

February 21

Shutdown of Missouri religious health care outfit shows need for stricter regulation

The implosion of a dubious religious health insurance entity in Missouri demonstrates the need for stronger restrictions on such outfits. After defrauding consumers for years, a Missouri health care sharing ministry has been shut down by the federal government. The Freedom From Religion Foundation has … More »

February 20

FFRF demands that Miami Beach reject funds for Jewish temple

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is once again urging Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber and the members of the City Commission to reject a resolution advancing the Jewish faith. In January, FFRF spoke out against a proposed $72,000 grant to renovate an eruv line in … More »

February 17

FFRF diligently tracking an onslaught of (mostly awful) state legislation

More than 1,000. That’s how many bills the Freedom From Religion Foundation is now tracking across the United States — and every one of them impacts the fight to keep religion out of our federal and state governmental policies. Less than 50 days into the … More »

February 16

Acclaimed writer and freethinker Katha Pollitt interviewed on FFRF’s Sunday TV show

Watch the teaser here. Renowned author, feminist and freethinker Katha Pollitt is interviewed on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s “Freethought Matters” TV show this Sunday. Pollitt has been writing the award-winning column “Subject To Debate” for The Nation magazine since 1995. She’s the author of many … More »

February 16

FFRF continues to keep religion out of schools in Chino Valley

The Freedom From Religion Foundation commends the Chino Valley school district in California for acknowledging a recent First Amendment violation by a board member — and working to correct it. Two concerned Chino Valley USD employees reported to FFRF that school board member James Na … More »

February 15

Nationwide voucher deluge alarming to FFRF

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is sounding the alarm about the reckless and growing campaign around the nation — including legislative initiatives in 11 states, two of which have passed — to strip public schools of funding and funnel those tax dollars to religious … More »

February 14

Parkland shooting anniversary sees a changed world over ‘thoughts & prayers’

On today’s fifth anniversary of the mass shooting at the Parkland, Fla., high school, Michigan House Majority Whip Ranjeev Puri had the guts to compose a letter and tweet over Monday’s mass shooting of college students in East Lansing that began: “Fuck your thoughts … More »

February 14

Last call for FFRF law student essays!

The Freedom From Religion Foundation wants to remind secular law students of an impending deadline for its 2023 Diane and Stephen Uhl Memorial Essay Competition for Law School Students. Law school students are being asked to write an essay that makes the argument, under current … More »

February 14

FFRF welcomes Rep. Mullin to the Congressional Freethought Caucus

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is proud to announce that Rep. Kevin Mullin, D-Calif., has joined the Congressional Freethought Caucus, demonstrating his commitment to the separation of state and church and freethinkers’ rights. In addition to welcoming Mullin, FFRF expresses its appreciation to former Reps. … More »

February 13

Texas school board’s prayer practice is divisive, says FFRF

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is spotlighting a Texas school board’s troublingly divisive practice of regularly having Christian prayer at its board meetings. A concerned Midlothian ISD resident has contacted the state/church watchdog regarding the board’s practice of opening meetings with exclusively Christian prayers. For … More »

February 13

Portugal yet another country scarred by the Church’s crimes

A recent headline that should surprise absolutely no one: “Thousands of children abused by members of Portugal’s Catholic Church over 70 years, report finds.” Given the pervasiveness of credible allegations in countries around the world of Catholic clerics molesting children, why would Portugal be … More »

February 13

FFRF insists that Okla. Catholic charter school proposal be rejected

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is strongly objecting to the application that the biggest Catholic entities in Oklahoma have submitted to establish a state-funded charter school. FFRF published a counterargument last month to Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor’s opinion that a charter school may be religiously … More »

February 10

FFRF thanks Rep. Hank Johnson for reintroducing Supreme Court ethics bill

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is proud to be listed as an official supporting organization in the reintroduction yesterday of an important Supreme Court reform bill. Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga., introduced the Supreme Court Ethics and Refusal Act in the House; Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., … More »

February 9

FFRF calls for end to Ohio school district’s discriminatory prayer

Immediately cease coercive and discriminatory school board prayers, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Ohio-based East Knox Local School District.  FFRF has been informed by a concerned member of the district that board member and Pastor Matt Schwartz has been using his position … More »

February 2

Brave secular city councilor on FFRF’s Sunday TV show

Watch the teaser here. The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s “Freethought Matters” TV show has as its guest a city councilor who has received death threats after asking her board to drop opening prayer. Emily Olson is a wife, mother, small-business owner and a new member of … More »

February 9

FFRF welcomes study showing Americans strongly reject Christian nationalism

The findings of the just-released PRRI/Brookings Christian Nationalism Survey are generally reassuring news for secularism. Thankfully, half or even up to two-thirds of Americans reject Christian nationalist precepts. “More than one-third of Americans (35 percent) say they have not heard the term ‘Christian nationalism,’ but … More »

February 9

FFRF’s Mark on the Hill: How we won on Thomas Paine

I’ve been in this game for a while. One thing I’ve learned is that winning is far more fun than losing — and we have won on Thomas Paine. A dream of our community and so many Americans is now going to be a reality. … More »

February 6

Watch for 'unabashed atheist' Ron Reagan on CBS’ ‘Colbert’

Ron Reagan’s commercial on behalf of the Freedom From Religion Foundation will return to the live version of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” following the State of the Union address on Tuesday, Feb. 7. The ad, in which Reagan famously notes he’s an “unabashed … More »

February 2

International secularist spotlights Iran on FFRF’s Sunday TV show

An Iranian-born feminist and secularist offers key insights about the recent protests in her country of origin on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s “Freethought Matters” TV show this Sunday. Maryam Namazie has herself been leading protests against Iran in the United Kingdom and other European … More »

February 2

FFRF applauds legislative protection of abortion rights in Minnesota

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is delighted that abortion rights are now codified by state statute in Minnesota. Gov. Tim Walz signed the Protect Reproductive Options Act on Tuesday. This vital legislation was spearheaded by state Sen. Jen McEwen, a member of the Legislature’s newly formed … More »

February 2

FFRF applauds Ala. school district for halting bibles at graduations

The Freedom From Religion Foundation commends Opelika City Schools in Alabama for ensuring that future high school graduations will be free of bible distributions. The national state/church watchdog received a complaint some months ago from a concerned parent about envelopes handed to graduating students at … More »

February 1

FFRF coaches Deion Sanders on the Constitution

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has been successfully coaching Deion Sanders on the constitutional separation between state and religion. The national state/church watchdog reached out to the University of Colorado after multiple Colorado residents reported that Sanders in his new role as the university football … More »

February 1

Taking down the National Prayer Breakfast (as Congress knew it)

Sure, tomorrow morning the president and many members of Congress will still gather together to piously and publicly pray, as they have for the past 70 years on the first Thursday in February, the chosen date for the sanctimonious National Prayer Breakfast. The Freedom From … More »

January 31

FFRF urges Miami Beach City Commission to reject eruv maintenance grant

Do not approve an upcoming grant to fund the maintenance of a religious boundary, known as an eruv, the Freedom of Religion Foundation is urging the Miami Beach City Commission. On Wednesday, Feb. 1, the City Commission is set to vote on a resolution to … More »

January 31

FFRF demands Calif. school district board end prayer at meetings

Immediately cease the practice of prayer to open school board meetings, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is urging the Gateway Unified School District Board of Trustees. On Jan. 18, the board made a motion to open meetings with prayer, which passed after a 3-2 vote. … More »

January 31

An onslaught of anti-trans state-level bills alarms FFRF

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is closely monitoring the alarming surge in anti-transgender bills being introduced in state legislatures around the nation. More than 150 bills in at least 25 states to date have been proposed or introduced that attack transgender individuals and rights, especially … More »

January 30

FFRF’s Ron Reagan commercial returns to ‘Maddow’ show

The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s iconic ad featuring a presidential son Ron Reagan touting FFRF’s work and his own “unabashed atheism” returns tonight to premier television. The commercial inviting viewers to join FFRF will air tonight, Jan. 30, and the following four Mondays on MSNBC’s “The … More »

January 27

BREAKING! FFRF wins its lawsuit against Texas Gov. Greg Abbott

The Freedom From Religion Foundation today won its case before an appeals court against the Texas governor’s censorship of its Capitol display. After Gov. Greg Abbott and the State Preservation Board blatantly and illegally censored FFRF’s display in the Texas Capitol in 2015, Abbott and … More »

January 27

Florida tragedy shows why medical aid-in-dying laws are desperately needed

The tragic recent case involving the arrest of a 76-year-old woman in Florida for fatally shooting her terminally ill 77-year-old husband at his request would not have happened if Florida had rational medical-aid-in-dying laws, the Freedom From Religion Foundation asserts.  In fact, those types of … More »

January 26

FFRF appalled by Woah Vicky’s anti-LGBTQ comments at Ga. high school

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is calling for an investigation into how infamous social media personality “Woah Vicky” was allowed to preach hateful rhetoric at a Georgia high school. “Woah Vicky,” whose real name is Victoria Rose Waldrip, was invited to Jonesboro High School by Frances … More »

January 26

FFRF interviews Ron Reagan on its Sunday TV show

Watch the teaser here. A plain-spoken atheist and talented dancer who is also a member of a famous family is the guest on the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s “Freethought Matters” TV show this Sunday. Ron Reagan is, of course, the son of Nancy and President Ronald … More »

January 26

FFRF to pope: The ‘sin’ is the church’s, not LGBTQ individuals

Many observers, even pro-LGBTQ groups, are falling all over themselves to congratulate Pope Francis on his remark during a recent interview that “being homosexual is not a crime.” In a world where 67 nations in fact criminalize homosexuality, as well as in a church which has made … More »

January 25

Coach Deion Sanders must cease imposing religion, contends FFRF

Sports legend Deion Sanders is misusing his new position as the University of Colorado football coach to foist Christianity on the program, asserts the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Multiple concerned Colorado residents have reached out to the state/church watchdog to report that Sanders has been … More »

January 25

FFRF calls National Prayer Breakfast changes ‘subterfuge’

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is greeting news of the upcoming National Prayer Breakfast’s longstanding host, The Fellowship, separating from the annual event with skepticism. The state/church watchdog had recently taken the lead in a coalition letter calling on members of Congress to boycott the … More »

January 25

FFRF condemns passage of Iowa’s massive private school funding bill

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is appalled at Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds signing legislation that will funnel over $340 million in taxpayer dollars to private, mostly religious schools. The new law is an egregious decimation of the public school system in the name of “school … More »

January 25

FFRF, local activists seek resolution from Fla. county after invocation insult

The Freedom From Religion Foundation and its Florida chapter are still seeking resolution after being publicly insulted by the Lake County Board of County Commissioners. FFRF Staff Attorney Chris Line wrote a letter last month to the Board of County Commissioners after a secular invocation … More »

January 23

FFRF condemns new blasphemy legislation in Pakistan

The Pakistani ruling elite has recently taken a regressive step in the name of religion. Pakistan’s horrific anti-blasphemy laws have claimed many victims over the past some decades. For instance, Tahir Ahmed Naseem was shot dead in July 2020 during a hearing regarding accusations that … More »

January 19

FFRF drops by freethinking sculptor’s studio on Sunday TV show

The Freedom From Religion Foundation undertakes a special trip to a renowned sculptor’s studio for its “Freethought Matters” TV show this Sunday. Zenos Frudakis is an internationally renowned sculptor and artist. More than 100 of his works are displayed throughout the United States, Europe, Australia, … More »

January 19

FFRF Urges Charleston, S.C., School District To Nix Prayer

Don’t begin school board meetings with a prayer, the Freedom From Religion Foundation has written to the Charleston County School Board in an open letter.  A concerned member of the school district reported that the board recently decided to open meetings with a prayer. Initially, … More »

January 18

FFRF: SCOTUS’ new USPS case signals more religious privileging

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is disheartened that the U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear yet another case involving a Christian plaintiff seeking to broaden religious exemptions in the workplace. Late last week, the high court granted review in a case, Groff v. DeJoy, involving … More »

January 18

FFRF: Wis. conversion therapy ban reversal will cause needless harm

The Madison-based national Freedom From Religion Foundation denounces Wisconsin legislators who have reversed a ban on conversion therapy, a discredited anti-gay practice favored by Christian fundamentalists and other religious extremists. Often targeting dependent minors, it involves therapists who actively attempt to change patient sexual … More »

January 18

Remove insurrectionary Christian nationalist flag, FFRF tells Rep. Grothman

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is appealing to a home state member of Congress to get rid of a Christian nationalist flag associated with the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection. Rep. Glenn Grothman, R-Wis., has a flag reading “Appeal to Heaven” flying from the flagpole outside of … More »

January 18

FFRF demands that Indiana sheriff halt inmate baptisms

Update: In a previous version of its press release, FFRF stated that Dave Durant was the sitting sheriff. Shortly before it was released, Bill Beyerrose was inaugurated as sheriff. FFRF has sent a fresh letter to the new sheriff. Immediately cease your unabashed Christian proselytizing, … More »

January 17

FFRF leads organizational sign-on letter opposing the National Prayer Breakfast

The Freedom From Religion Foundation, joined by 30 secular and religious groups, has sent a letter to members of Congress and the White House today urging a boycott of the National Prayer Breakfast. The event, held annually in the first week of February in Washington, … More »

January 17

Texas college hides details of ‘gift’ to Christian school

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is charging that a Texas public community college is covering up details of its transfer of significant public land to a private Christian school. FFRF recently objected to the gifting of land— including 39 acres and six buildings — by … More »

January 13

Celebrate National Religious Freedom Day: Reform SCOTUS

The National Religious Freedom Day, proclaimed on Jan. 16 annually by presidents since 1993, memorializes a constitutional principle that today is imperiled by our Supreme Court. The landmark Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, originally penned by Thomas Jefferson, was adopted by the Commonwealth of Virginia … More »

January 13

Pass the Freedom to Vote Act to truly honor Martin Luther King Jr

The Freedom From Religion Foundation, in commemorating civil rights legend Martin Luther King Jr. today, urges freedom-lovers in King’s memory to resolve to fight against endangered voting rights. The Supreme Court, beginning in 2013, began eroding the Voting Rights Act King fought so hard … More »

January 13

FFRF lauds Biden proposal to restore religious liberty protections

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is encouraged to see the Biden Administration’s announcement that it proposes restoring religious liberty protections for beneficiaries of federally funded social services. FFRF, along with a coalition of service and advocacy organizations, filed a lawsuit at the end of Trump’s … More »

January 12

‘Hope-a-holic’ Gloria Steinem is riveting guest on FFRF’s TV show

Gloria Steinem is the spectacular guest on Sunday’s episode of “Freethought Matters,” FFRF’s weekly talk show. FFRF Co-President Annie Laurie Gaylor interviewed the world’s most famous feminist at FFRF’s 2021 national convention in Boston. Steinem, the embodiment of someone who has moved society forward, was … More »

January 11

FFRF calls NY Times’ Christian-right columnist hire ‘insensitive’

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is disappointed by the New York Times’ insensitive decision to hire David French to be its newest opinion columnist. French, who has been affiliated with the Christian nationalist Alliance Defending Freedom, has a history of using religion as a weapon … More »

January 10

Join FFRF in celebrating Thomas Paine Jan. 29

The Freedom From Religion Foundation will be celebrating the congressional passage of a bill to create a Thomas Paine memorial in D.C., on the upcoming anniversary of the revolutionary’s birth. The “Thomas Paine Birthdate Proclamation Celebration,” also cosponsored by the Thomas Paine Memorial Association (TPMA), … More »

January 9

FFRF, 40 groups demand release of Soheil Arabi

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is joining with secular organizations around the world to demand the safety and release of Iranian atheist Soheil Arabi. FFRF is one of more than 40 organizations calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Arabi, a well-known Iranian atheist and … More »

January 6

Christian nationalism still a threat two years after insurrection

On this second anniversary of the horrifying spectacle that unfolded in the nation’s Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is sorry to report that Christian nationalism is alive and well, and remains a threat to American democracy and liberty. The otherwise … More »

December 28

Godless Gospel producer Andre Forbes is guest on "Freethought Matters"

A former gospel producer-turned-nonbeliever is the guest on this Sunday’s episode of “Freethought Matters,” the weekly public interest TV show produced by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. Andre Forbes has worked with many gospel artists, including the Clark Sisters, Donald Lawrence, Byron Cage, Kim Burrell, … More »

January 5

FFRF thanks Rep-Elect Garcia for swearing on Constitution

Below is the letter the Freedom From Religion Foundation sent today to U.S. Rep.-Elect Robert Garcia, D-Calif. Representative-Elect Robert Garcia1305 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Re: Thank you for swearing in on the Constitution Dear Representative-Elect, We are writing on behalf of the Freedom From Religion … More »

January 5

Christian make-up of Congress out of kilter with growing secularism

What a tonic to see newly-elected U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia vow to take his oath of office on the U.S. Constitution, not a bible. Garcia tweeted: “Will be proudly sworn-in to Congress on the U.S. Constitution. Underneath the Constitution will be 3 items that mean … More »

January 4

FFRF praises Calif. school district for removing religious text from mural

The Freedom From Religion Foundation commends the Chico Unified School District in Chico, Calif., for painting over an inappropriate religious text on a mural at a public school. FFRF received a complaint last September about the mural, which said “Praise God from whom all blessings … More »

January 4

FFRF: Okla. AG erred in religious charter school opinion

A national state/church watchdog is contesting the Oklahoma attorney general’s opinion that a religious entity can operate a public charter school. The Freedom From Religion Foundation has countered Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor’s opinion that a charter school may be religiously affiliated with a … More »

December 29

FFRF urges IRS to investigate church electioneering in several states

[An original version of this press release incorrectly identified Mark Ronchetti as mayoral candidate instead of a gubernatorial candidate, and Gov. Michelle Lujan-Grisham as mayor instead of governor. This press release has been updated to correct these mistakes]  The Freedom From Religion Foundation is asking the … More »

December 29

FFRF sends heartfelt wishes for recovery to Rep. Jamie Raskin

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is sending well wishes (but no prayers!) to U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin, co-chair of the Congressional Freethought Caucus, who has been diagnosed with cancer. Raskin revealed yesterday his recent diagnosis of Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma, which he described as … More »

December 28

FFRF TV show spotlights a freethinking tween and a Texas activist

The Freedom From Religion Foundation “Freethought Matters” television show presents to its viewers this Sunday two inspirational grassroots secularists — one of them all of 11 years old. Elle Harris is a sixth grader who comes from a family of freethinkers and with her dad, … More »

December 27

FFRF disappointed in Jan. 6 report’s Christian nationalist omissions

The Freedom From Religion Foundation regrets that the recently released Jan. 6 House select committee report fails to pinpoint the Christian nationalist motivations behind the Capitol attack. The committee’s official findings do not adequately illustrate the true nature of the insurrection and its participants, asserts the … More »

December 25

What I want for Christmas

By Robert Green IngersollThe Arena, Boston, December 1897 If I had the power to produce exactly what I want for next Christmas, I would have all the kings and emperors resign and allow the people to govern themselves. I would have all the nobility crop their … More »

December 24

Reason's Greetings!

… More »

December 22

FFRF Christmas TV show a freethinking musical bonanza

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is offering viewers a freethinking musical special on its Christmas Sunday “Freethought Matters” television show. Steve Martin, a freethinker himself, once humorously wrote a song, “Atheists Don’t Have No Songs” — a joke belied by the many musical moments from … More »

December 22

FFRF celebrates holidays with “60 Minutes” Ron Reagan ad

The Freedom From Religion Foundation will not only end this year on an irreverent note but begin the new year the same way: with its “unabashed atheist” Ron Reagan ad on “60 Minutes.” The spot will air on Christmas Day and New Year’s … More »

December 22

FFRF's Maine chapter fights battle for secular representation

The Freedom From Religion Foundation and its Maine chapter are pushing back against a town’s attempts at religious favoritism in the public square. When a nativity scene was erected on public ground in Bucksport, FFRF’s Maine chapter President Tom Waddell requested permission to also put … More »

December 22

FFRF solstice display returns to Washington Capitol

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is pleased to once again be spreading secular cheer in the legislative heart of the Evergreen State. The banner, unfurled at the Capitol grounds in Olympia, was erected thanks to the help of Lewis Foerster from Unfettered Freethinkers of South … More »

December 21

Away with the manger — in with the Solstice!

For a fact, the Christians stole Christmas. We don't mind sharing the season with them, but we don't like their pretense that it is the birthday of Jesus. It is the Birthday of the Unconquered Sun — Dies Natalis Invicti Solis. Christmas is a relic … More »

December 20

FFRF NY Times Winter Solstice ad pays homage to legendary editorial

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is celebrating Winter Solstice in the New York Times with a tongue-in-cheek play on perhaps the most famous editorial in newspaper history. Click here to view full sized ad. “Yes Virginia … there is no God,” begins its ad (riffing … More »

December 20

FFRF disappointed at likely N.Y. governor veto of secular recovery bill

The Freedom From Religion Foundation is dismayed that New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is moving to veto a secular recovery bill. The legislation, S7313A, would have given individuals mandated to attend recovery support programs the option for secular recovery programs over religiously focused ones. FFRF … More »

December 20

Bill to approve Thomas Paine memorial likely to pass THIS session

Thanks to a bipartisan initiative, a congressional bill to correct a massive historical oversight is likely to be approved during this session. Under the leadership of Reps. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., and Victoria Spartz, R-Ind., the Thomas Paine Memorial Bill (HR 6720) has been included in … More »

December 19

FFRF renews demand that Colorado Springs school board member stop promoting religion

Stop pushing your personal religion in school board meetings and official documents, the Freedom From Religion Foundation is once again insisting to a Colorado Springs school board member. In a recent communication, Colorado Springs District 11 Board of Education Member Rev. Al Loma reportedly responded … More »

December 16

FFRF's San Diego Bill of Rights display mutilated yet again

The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Winter Solstice banner and Bill of Rights “nativity” in San Diego have both been vandalized less than two weeks after being put up. The solstice exhibits, which are scheduled to be displayed in Balboa Park until Jan. 3, were erected … More »

December 15

FFRF Sunday TV show celebrates Winter Solstice

Join the Freedom From Religion Foundation for a celebration of Winter Solstice on its “Freethought Matters” television show this Sunday. Co-hosts Dan Barker and Annie Laurie Gaylor guide us on a warm personal and historical tour of the solstice, which heralds the symbolic rebirth of … More »

December 15

FFRF’s Bill of Rights display returns to California Capitol

(Barri Babow, vice president of Greater Sacramento FFRF chapter; Erin Louis, board member at large; Judy Roberson, secretary; John Lucas, treasurer; Judy Saint, president, with dog Jo-Jo.) The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s Greater Sacramento chapter is pleased to return to the California Capitol with a … More »

December 15

FFRF castigates White House’s ‘get out of jail free’ card to India and Nigeria

Imprisoned Nigerian freethinker Mubarak Bala (left) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (right) The Biden administration is prioritizing commercial and geostrategic interests over constitutional principles. It has neglected to designate two key global partners, India and Nigeria, as “countries of particular concern” despite the recommendation of … More »

December 15

FFRF: Kavanaugh party, damning testimony demand Supreme Court ethics reform

Recent events show how imperative it is that Congress enforce a code of conduct for the U.S. Supreme Court, maintains the Freedom From Religion Foundation. A week ago, the House Judiciary Committee held a hearing involving charges of anti-abortion ethics conflicts at the Supreme Court. … More »

December 15

Celebrate Bill of Rights Day by doubling down to preserve it

  The best way to celebrate the 231st anniversary of ratification of the Bill of Rights today is to work even harder to preserve it, says the feisty Freedom From Religion Foundation. Last year, FFRF took out a full-page ad in the New York Times warning: “The scales … More »

December 14

FFRF lauds historic congressional testimony on Christian nationalism

Christians Against Christian Nationalism lead organizer Amanda Tyler made history when she recently testified before Congress about Christian nationalism. “Christian nationalism often overlaps with and provides cover for white supremacy and racial subjugation,” Tyler told members of the House Oversight Committee’s Subcommittee on Civil Rights … More »

December 14

It’s “Solstice in Connecticut” as FFRF display returns

The Freedom From Religion Foundation and local volunteers are continuing the freethinking tradition in a Connecticut community this December. FFRF thanks members Jerry Bloom and John Levin for once again putting up its secular holiday display at Huntington Green Park in Shelton. The banner has … More »