Religious Street Sign Causes Conflict in New York City
July 25th, 2011
Atheists claim “Seven in Heaven Way” violates secular nature of government
Definition of Atheism
A street in Brooklyn, New York City was recently rechristened as “Seven in Heaven Way” in honor of seven firefighters who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001. The inclusion of the word “Heaven” has drawn criticism from the atheist group New York City Atheists. This group, which opposes the use of religious symbols or other religious references in public places, claims they are prepared to take the city of New York to court to have the sign’s name changed.
New York City Atheists president Kenneth Bronstein claims the threat of legal action is in line with the group’s secularist agenda.
“This is not a matter of faltering patriotism or public ignorance, but rather an effort to promote secularism,” Bronstein said. “We want [the sign] to be neutral. Anyone can believe whatever they want to believe.”
New York City Atheists calls the inclusion of the word “Heaven” on the sign an overt reference to Christianity which, in turn, crosses the line which divides church and state.
“We’re supposed to be a secular nation”, Bronstein said. “There really should not be any religious symbolism or signage in public places.”
Bronstein suggests that the street could have the secular name “We Remember the 7-911” instead.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
Have the New York City Atheists gone to far? Is it reasonable for a single religious word like “Heaven” to be included on a lone street sign? Or should everything that is public also be secular? Please let us know what you think.
The reason MD cuts cllaers off is to avoid us listening to the same old arguments based on the first false premise, that he needs to attack. The rest of the call becomes nonsense or preaching,? if you prefer. I like Jeff’s dweebish sarcasm, it is gentle and done with a smile. His arguments are sound and on point that’s what really counts. Is it just me or have the last few shows been boring? Maybe because idiots have been allowed to run on too long? Eggsactly! (easter reference lol)