WHEREAS this nation is composed of individuals of diverse racial, cultural and religious backgrounds, each entitled to equal protection and freedom of thought under the Constitution; and

WHEREAS many patriotic Americans are not affiliated with traditional religious groups, yet conscientiously endeavor to lead good and purposeful lives; and

WHEREAS many of these believe that the dignity of man and the living of an ethical life are not necessarily dependent on faith in a Supreme Being;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the American Ethical Union wishes to express its strong sense that representatives of government should demonstrate their respect for the right of each individual to his personal interpretation of the meaning of life by recognizing in their public utterances that there are a variety of such interpretations, including a multiplicity of ways of believing in a Supreme Being and a philosophy of life independent of this belief; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all modern media of communication give public recognition to the proposition that the fulfillment of the obligations of citizenship and the leading of a moral life are possible for every individual whatever his personal religious beliefs.

Source: Where We Stand

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