Atheists Push to Remove Language From Constitutions in States Banning Them From Public Office

Christian Post ^ | 12/11/2014 | Leonardo Blair

[SeekAndFind]

Although these bans aren't enforceable under federal law, a coalition of atheists are now lobbying to remove language from constitutions in Maryland and six other states that prevent people who do not believe in God from holding public office.

Along with Maryland, the constitutions of Arkansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas all bear language prohibiting people who do not believe in God from holding office according to The New York Times. And the Openly Secular coalition wants the language removed.

"If it was on the books that Jews couldn't hold public office, or that African-Americans or women couldn't vote, that would be a no-brainer. You'd have politicians falling all over themselves to try to get it repealed. Even if it was still unenforceable, it would still be disgraceful and be removed. So why are we different?" Todd Stiefel, chairman and the main funder of the Openly Secular coalition told the Times.

Openly Secular, according a description on the organization's Facebook page, seeks to end discrimination against atheists. It was formed this year and is made up of about 30 different groups and has attracted the support of former NFL player, Chris Kluwe as well as former U.S. Congressman Barney Frank who became the first sitting member of Congress to marry someone of the same gender.

"We envision a world where there are no social costs for being secular, where families and communities remain whole when some members have moved away from religion or supernaturalism. We promote the values of acceptance, reason and love," it explains.

In 1961, the Supreme Court ruled that states could not have a "religious test" for persons seeking to hold public office. However, these seven states have not repealed the language barring atheists from holding public office.

[Blood of Tyrants]

Enforceable or not, it isn’t a simple process to change the TN constitution.

[Bon mots]

'Non prophet', lol

[Vaduz]

Atheists = A Front

[SevenofNine]

I got question how come you running for office if you don’t like that part of constituaion you are in small minority Athesit dude

[Jacquerie]

<>In 1961, the Supreme Court ruled that states could not have a “religious test” for persons seeking to hold public office.<>

Another entirely expected outcome of the progressive 17th amendment.

[Terry L Smith]

Turn the tables on them, by putting what they wish to bring to court, in an election referendum vote, statewide.

[SunkenCiv]

In 1961, the Supreme Court ruled that states could not have a "religious test" for persons seeking to hold public office. However, these seven states have not repealed the language barring atheists from holding public office.

And in 1961, the Demagogic Party still had a solid South. When Newt's Contract With America idea started to tip things the other way, the Demagogic Party started its war on tobacco; now that they've lost the South bigtime, in last month's election landslide, expect more things like this. What did the atheists do, suddenly learn how to read?

[Tolerance Sucks Rocks]

And yet, Owe’Malley ended up in the governorship.

Maryland “Freak State” PING!

[eyeamok]

And what is the first word in the 1st amendment??