ATHEISTS: Abide by Constitution

I try to read the opinions of others in the “Reader’s Write” section with an open mind. Every once in a while an opinion comes along that I must speak to.

First, I want to thank The Press for having the First Amendment to the Constitution at the top of the page. The first amendment was created by the founding fathers of this nation. It creates a separation of church and state. America is not a Christian nation; it is a Free Nation.

It has a thousand religions in it and the freedom of speech guaranteed to those religions and to those who do not wish to follow any religion.

I do appreciate the passion of Mary Budd and the strength of her faith, but the freedoms guaranteed in this country means neither she nor anyone else can force their beliefs on anyone else. Since before 1983 and Public Law 97-280, Congress has been trying to force religion into our laws. The First Amendment to the Constitution states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,” consequently Public Law 97-280 is essentially illegal since the bible basically speaks to a single type of religion.

The freedom of religion and speech is what keeps America the land most people want to be in. Other countries limit speech, religion, and lifestyle. America does not and that is what makes her great. I ask all readers to try to keep a very open mind as our forefathers wanted for us.

CASSANDRA WRIGHT

Rathdrum