American Atheists cancels demonstration - Blasphemy resolution removed from UN agenda

March 24, 5:27 PMAtheism ExaminerTrina Hoaks

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RESOLUTIONS that would have banned "defamation of religion" were rejected by international bodies this week, prompting an Atheist group to all off plans to demonstrate at the United Nations building.

The so-called "blasphemy" resolution introduced by Pakistan and supported by some Middle East regimes called upon governments to combat critical, insulting or defamatory statements about religion, specifically the Islamic faith.  The measure lacked sufficient votes in the UN General Assembly to become a binding resolution; and the proposal will not be on the agenda at the Durban II conference slated for Geneva next month.

Dr. Ed Buckner, President of American Atheists said that he was encouraged by these developments.

"The 'blasphemy' resolutions were aimed at regulating personal opinions and expression, and had nothing to do with acts of violence against ethnic or religious groups," said Buckner.  "Religious creeds and movements should not enjoy special rights or protections, especially where freedom of speech is concerned."

Dave Silverman, Communications Director for American Atheists cautioned that the "blasphemy" proposal is not dead.

"Religious groups and some faith-based states will continue to push this type of resolution," said Silverman.  "Secular and even moderate religious organizations need to continually monitor this effort, and speak out vocally in defense of freedom of conscience and free expression."

Mr. Silverman said that a demonstration planned for this Saturday (March 28) outside the UN building in New York has been canceled.

"If this proposal is resurrected again," said Silverman, "we'll be ready to speak out and defend our freedom from religion!"

(AMERICAN ATHEISTS is a nationwide movement that defends civil rights for nonbelievers; works for the total separation of church and state; and addresses issues of First Amendment public policy."

The above announcement appears on the American Atheists Web site.