Humanists of Linn County Condemns Destruction of Satanic Temple Display
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Humanists of Linn County has been closely following the events of the last few weeks regarding the destruction of the Satanic Temple display at the Iowa state capitol rotunda. Our thoughts so closely align with those already expressed by the Iowa Atheists and Freethinkers that we have opted to repost their official release below and sign on as supporters of their statement.
IOWA ATHEISTS AND FREETHINKERS CONDEMNS DESTRUCTION OF SATANIC TEMPLE DISPLAY
Each year there have been winter solstice, seasonal holiday, and sectarian religious displays set up for public viewing in the state capitol rotunda. IAF, as well as other organizations, have proudly presented a display alongside other religious groups with the message of inclusion, separation of church and state, and protecting the rights of all Iowans to have freedom of, as well as from, religion.
However, this year, the Satanic Temple of Iowa has displayed a Baphomet statue alongside their 7 tenets which was done according to the process, openly, and within their 1st amendment right to express themselves. This has drawn swift condemnation from conservative Christian legislators and commentators that seem to value only one faith over and above all others: Christianity. Despite 1st amendment protections and a clear cut case of equal access and protection under the law, the Satanic Temple display was destroyed this week. Not only was that display targeted, but it was also targeted specifically by Christians, for sectarian religious reasons. This targeting was encouraged by legislators and even had the Iowa Governor, Kim Reynolds, calling it “evil”.
This is unacceptable.
Iowa Atheists and Freethinkers remain committed to the free speech protection of all Iowans as well as the separation of church and state. Calling for the removal of a holiday display that is found objectionable due to religious reasons that has led to the destruction of the Satanic Display ought to be condemned in the strongest words possible. When our leaders make it permissible to destroy religious – or non-religious- displays they find religiously objectionable, they are abdicating their responsibility to safeguard the freedom of expression of the citizens they represent.
Signed: Jason Benell, IAF President
Co-signed: Tyler Owen, HLC President
If you are interested in supporting the efforts of the Satanic Temple of Iowa then you can visit their Facebook page. They are also currently fundraising to support next year’s display and cover expenses related to the vandalism this year.
