Seshmeister
12-23-2016, 01:58 PM
Obama Signs Act That Gives Protection To Atheists
http://media.vocativ.com/photos/2016/12/Touched_by_His_Noodly_Appendage_HD3496912592.png
as a historic step.
The American Humanists Association (AHA), one of several groups that have been lobbying for more inclusive language in the act, praised the changes. “That non-theists are now recognized as a protected class is a significant step toward full acceptance and inclusion for non-religious individuals, who are still far too often stigmatized and persecuted around the world.” Roy Speckhardt, executive director of the AHA, said in a statement. The group also announced the organization’s intention to work with the U.S. Department of Defense to protect religious freedom for religious minorities and non-theists in other countries.
A 2013 report determined that 13 countries threaten to execute citizens who are atheist or do not practice the state-recognized religion. Saudi Arabia recently issued laws declaring atheists to be terrorists. Earlier this year a Saudi man was sentenced to ten years in prison and 2,000 lashes for tweeting about his atheism.
http://www.vocativ.com/385934/obama-signs-atheist-law/?utm_source=TSE&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=INF&utm_content=inf_10_42_2&tse_id=INF_52e34220c86b11e6a49ee98568f943c2
http://media.vocativ.com/photos/2016/12/Touched_by_His_Noodly_Appendage_HD3496912592.png
as a historic step.
The American Humanists Association (AHA), one of several groups that have been lobbying for more inclusive language in the act, praised the changes. “That non-theists are now recognized as a protected class is a significant step toward full acceptance and inclusion for non-religious individuals, who are still far too often stigmatized and persecuted around the world.” Roy Speckhardt, executive director of the AHA, said in a statement. The group also announced the organization’s intention to work with the U.S. Department of Defense to protect religious freedom for religious minorities and non-theists in other countries.
A 2013 report determined that 13 countries threaten to execute citizens who are atheist or do not practice the state-recognized religion. Saudi Arabia recently issued laws declaring atheists to be terrorists. Earlier this year a Saudi man was sentenced to ten years in prison and 2,000 lashes for tweeting about his atheism.
http://www.vocativ.com/385934/obama-signs-atheist-law/?utm_source=TSE&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=INF&utm_content=inf_10_42_2&tse_id=INF_52e34220c86b11e6a49ee98568f943c2