Margaret Downey, founder of the Freethought Society of Greater Philadelphia, is an atheist who wants non-believers to be represented during the holiday season – and she's not settling for plastic Santa Clauses or candy canes because they “just do not cut it” and “are not representative of the rich and diverse non-theist community,” Downey says in an interview specifically for this article.
Downey, in an attempt to properly represent the non-theist community during the holiday season, has pioneered the Tree of Knowledge – a large holiday tree decorated with books -- but her request to erect a Tree of Knowledge in West Chester, PA was denied by local government officials.
Downey believes that majority religious groups should not have a monopoly on the holidays. She notes that religious persons, specifically Christians, argue that the holiday is 'their holiday' and want to exclude others from being represented in free speech zones on public property. Downey says, “a free speech zone isn't just for eleven months a year. Christians shouldn't be the only ones recognized. We should have equal access every day of the year.”
When atheists are barred from being represented in free speech zones, specifically during the holidays, Downey notes that this “represents the way atheists are treated as second-class citizens. Government officials set a tone of bigotry and prejudice.” Downey says that exclusion of atheists sends the message of “it's not okay to give atheists equal rights.” Downey says that people are “demeaning the Constitution and are being unpatriotic when they ask for us to not be represented.”
In order for atheists to be properly represented, Downey wants atheists to erect Trees of Knowledge in their own communities and homes so that government officials can recognize a symbol that represents atheists. Downey urges atheists to send her pictures of their Trees of Knowledge and write letters showing support. “If the Tree of Knowledge were established as a symbol for atheists,” Downey says, “government officials can't deny us. We need to demand that we be treated equally.” Downey encourages persons to send her pictures and letters. She says, “We atheists want proof, so let's establish the evidence with these letters and photos.”
Two special events regarding The Tree of Knowledge are upcoming. The Philadelphia Ethical Society will be erecting a Tree of Knowledge on December 4. Downey is also going to be hosting a Human Tree of Knowledge event on December 3 at the Chester County Courthouse in West Chester, PA. The Human Tree of Knowledge event will including speeches, signing, photo opportunities and a press conference and a post-event dinner and get-together. More information can be found in the embedded link.
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