Freedom from Religion Foundation Sign Found in Ditch

On Friday, a sign celebrating the Winter Solstice was placed near a Nativity scene by the Freedom From Religion Foundation. The sign, put up at the Legislative Building in Olympia, Washington, was set up at 6:30 a.m., but was torn down by 7:30, according to CNN.com. It was later found in a ditch.

The sign did take a direct shot at religion, calling it "myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds." Apparently, someone took offense to this. Enough so to tear down the sign, according to Freedom From Religion Foundation members.

When looking at this event, one has to wonder, did the sign warrant an act of vandalism?

America is no stranger to religious unrest. We have been disagreeing about religion as long as there has been an America. Our country was founded by religious dissenters. Was the Freedom of Religion Foundation simply adding their say to the ongoing argument, or did they go too far?

The sign, while it did disregard religion, seems to me to be no worse than a Nativity scene, as it disregards all religions but Christianity. And the Winter Solstice was celebrated long before Christmas ever was.

If someone were to tear down a Nativity scene, people would be up in arms. Why shouldn't the Freedom From Religion Foundation? Their views have just as much credence as anyone else's, under federal law.

The Freedom From Religion Foundation probably knew that their sign would be taken down. But in less than an hour? And then for it to be thrown in a ditch?

The Freedom From Religion Foundation have a right to express their views. Not just among themselves, but wherever they choose. This right is guaranteed by the 1^st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Whoever tore down their sign should be arrested for vandalism.

What would our country become if we lost the right to free expression? A shadow of itself. Without our right to speak out, to disagree, the rules of our country would be little consolation. The First Amendment is not just for people who agree with the status quo. The Freedom of Religion Foundation knows this.

On Friday morning, the 1^st Amendment rights of the Freedom of Religion Foundation were violated. They have pledged to move forward, and put up a new sign. According to CNN.com, they will put a note on it saying simply "Thou Shall Not Steal." Maybe this time they'll be able to peacefully express their thoughts.