Springfield (Illinois) Nativity Scene Chairman: Is Atheist Signage Political Dialogue or Hate Speech?

by Daniel Zanoza *

 

It was literally one of the most fulfilling events of my life.  However, I didn't fully realize it at first.  In late 2007, I thought it was time to get my life back on track after becoming totally blind two and a half years ago.  Sure, there was my writing.  And support of pro-family causes filled up many of my days.  Yet there was something missing.  However, I was soon to learn what it was.

 

A few years ago, it was suggested I lead a project that would eventually result in a Nativity scene standing in the state Capitol Building in Springfield, Illinois.  At first, I saw this as a worthwhile project, but its true meaning escaped me.  Personal tragedies in my life, including the death of my Mother, the tragic suicide of my brother-in-law and the coup de grace, my unexpected blindness after five surgeries, left me emotionally drained.  It would be inaccurate to say I was unhappy because with the unwavering support of a loving wife and friends, life was certainly bearable.  Indeed, I had come to terms with this simple fact...I was a blind man.  I grew to understand God had a special plan for me and He still does.  But these are the times that try men's souls, as a great person once said.

 

So, in 2008 I decided to finally tackle the Nativity scene project and it was one of the most happiest times of my life.  Perhaps the best thing about it was the fact I was working with committed people, individuals who loved God and did not see the project as a work assignment.  They saw the vision of a manger scene standing in the Capitol of one of the most liberal states in the Union as truly something special.  In fact, many came to this realization long before I did.

 

With the assistance of the Chicago-based Thomas More Society http://www.thomasmoresociety.org/ and its President Thomas Brejcha, the dream of a few became a reality for millions of Illinois residents on December 2nd when a beautifully crafted Nativity scene stood in the home of the Illinois General Assembly.  But America, at times, can truly be a strange land.  There are those who are irked when they see something that brings joy to their fellow man.

 

The Springfield Nativity scene was well covered by the mainstream media.  Of course, the faith-based press was totally in support of the project.  However, I was pleasantly surprised to see the fair coverage the Nativity scene received from the dominant secular media.  It was a refreshing thing for someone like myself who has analyzed the press and its coverage of political and social issues for more than 15 years.  It seemed to be a celebration for man-- which was its purpose exactly.  The manger scene in the state Capitol Building of Illinois was a celebration of Jesus Christ's birth.  It was a commemoration of a state and federal holiday in a house of the people made legal by the Constitution and made possible by literally dozens of hard-working individuals.  From our group's research, it was the first time a Nativity scene stood inside the Statehouse of the Land of Lincoln.

 

Oh, but back to those who revel in the chance to spoil the joy of others.  Recently, the state of Washington and its Governor, Christine Gregoire has been in the midst of a huge controversy over a Nativity scene which stands in that state's Capitol building.  A group of atheists felt it was necessary to celebrate the season with a message of their own.  It is a message of hate and intolerance which has turned a joyous event for many into what has become a trademark of American culture.  Atheists found it necessary to apply for--and receive--a permit to post a sign in close proximity to the statues depicting the birth of who, to millions, is the Savior of mankind.

 

Unfortunately, the atheists' purpose was not to acknowledge the virtues of humanism--which they espouse.  Indeed, the message of the non-believers is meant to disparage those who do believe in something greater than themselves.  I guess it was a sort of Christmas present they gave to themselves because they have nothing to celebrate or believe in.

 

Wasn't it wonderful?  This was taking place on the West Coast, far from middle America's sensibilities.  How naive I was.  In an article written by Doug Finke of the Springfield State Journal-Register, http://www.sj-r.com/opinions/x415866731/Statehouse-Insider-Nativity-scene-will-get-some-company I learned a Madison, Wisconsin-based group of atheists is planning a "gift" for the residents of Illinois.  The Dairy State atheists, called the Freedom from Religion Foundation, is using the same inflammatory language as that used in the states of Washington and Wisconsin which reads:

 

“Our message at this season of the winter solstice is may reason prevail.  There are no gods, no devils, no angels, no heaven or hell.  There is only our natural world.  Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds.”

 

It seems we have heard language referring to people of faith as being bitter before, but I'll save the issue of politics for another day.  The group will almost certainly be granted a permit, allowing them to hang their disparaging sign.  With a Menorah soon to join the Nativity scene in Illinois' state Capitol, the atheists have the luxury of truly sending an anti-Judeo-Christian message.

 

I have heard the argument which states this group and their hate-filled proclamation has a place in the state Capitol.  But there is an old adage which says freedom of speech stops at the point of screaming "fire!" in a crowded theater.  I am not a legal scholar, but the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee's legal counsel, Tom Brejcha of the Chicago-based Thomas More Society, would probably disagree with me, too.  However, I believe the atheist's signage is hate speech meant to antagonize millions of Illinois residents.  But we seem to live in a time when Christians and God-fearing Jews are favorite targets for Hollywood and many in popular culture.

 

I truly wonder if a racist group were to put up a sign spewing hatred towards Blacks or other minorities, if it would be considered appropriate free speech.  Yet, as Christians, it seems we have become accustomed to wearing targets on our collective backs and it shocks few when many pull the trigger of hate when they have us in their sights.  Therefore, I think it is a valid question that is worth pondering by our state officials.  Where is the line to be drawn in the public square when it comes to the disparaging of others under the guise of the First Amendment?

 

Everyone knows the Madison, Wisconsin atheists aren't celebrating the wonders of their humanistic beliefs.  If they were, they would say so in their message and no one would have qualms with them doing so.  And it's obvious someone at the helm of these atheists' groups has a tin political ear.  What is this organization really trying to accomplish?  Does this group think they are generating good will towards their cause?  Their message is certainly not of "Peace on Earth, Good Will Towards Men", is it?  In a way, the atheists may be getting a temporary jolt of satisfaction by knowing some find their message disgusting.  However, that is a hollow victory that will not last long for those sending the message.

 

I have a suggestion for those who visit the Illinois state Capitol and see the Madison, Wisconsin message...these individuals truly need our prayers.  They don't understand that Christ came to save them as well.  Indeed, the Son of God's message was directed more towards the unrighteous than the righteous.  As a simple, God-fearing man, I have pity for those who find enjoyment by trying to put down others.

 

I presume there will always be men and women like these individuals who find joy while antagonizing their brethren. 

 

I have a message for our visitors from Madison, Wisconsin:  Have a blessed, Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.  How's that for fighting fire with love?  Isn't that what Christmas is all about? 

 

* EDITOR'S NOTE:  Daniel Zanoza is Executive Director of RFFM.org and Chairman of the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee.

 

 

RELATED ARTICLES: 

 

Springfield Nativity Scene Committee members to Discuss Atheist's Planned Signage: Political Dialogue or Hate Speech? on the Laurie Roth Show: http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2008/12/springfield-nativity-scene-committee-members-to-discuss-atheists-planned-signage-political-dialogue-.html

 

 

How the Mainstream Media Covered the Historic Event:
http://www.illinoisfamily.org/news/contentview.asp?c=34164

Historic Nativity Scene To Be Unveiled In Illinois State Capitol Building in Springfield Tuesday, Dec. 2nd:  http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2008/11/historic-nativity-scene-to-be-unveiled-in-illinois-state-capitol-building-in-springfield-tuesday-dec.html

 

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Comments

[John Sutton]

You wanted a pro humanist message - try this.....

Atheism and agnosticism is an active and ethical philosophy far greater than any negative responses to religion. As an atheist you should live life based on humanity and reason and recognise that moral values are properly founded on human nature and experience alone. Base decisions on the available evidence and an assessment of the outcomes, not on any dogma or sacred text. Foster individual rights and freedoms but believe that individual responsibility, social cooperation and mutual respect are just as important.

People can and will continue to find solutions to the world's problems so that the quality of life can be improved for everyone. Be positive, gaining inspiration from life, art and culture, and a rich natural world. We have only one life and it is our responsibility to make it good, and to live it to the full.

EDITOR'S NOTE: The above was the second comment received from an individual who finally found a way to express himself without using ad hominen and invective. Agnostics and atheists can celebrate their faith--or lack thereof--but they should be respectful to others. Obviously, the first comment by John Sutton did not meet the criteria for comments to RFFM.org's postings and it was poor communication as well. Kudos, Mr. Sutton. I might not agree with you, but I respect your opinion, as long as you respect mine. Your message should be posted on the signs in Washington state, Wisconsin and, possibly, Illinois. It is a positive message, unlike what is currently on display in the previously mentioned states.

[Julie Zanoza]

EDITOR'S NOTE To Scott Otto:

I only censor comments with links, ad hominens and/or inappropriate language that's why your comment did not appear in this space. We do not censor any comments--as long as they adhere to policy. Unfortunately, those on the Left have a problem following these simple rules. For the record, there are many contrarian views expressed on RFFM.org, but we will not break the rules and be psychologically manipulated by the old "I don't expect you to print this..." That is a correct statement, regarding your comment, Mr. Otto. Clean it up and we'll post it.

By the way, the words "separation of church and state" do NOT appear in the Constitution or any other formal document created by the Founding Fathers. They appeared in a private letter from then-President Thomas Jefferson to the Danbury, Connecticut Baptist Association (see: http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2007/08/the-founding-fa.html) who were concerned the United States was going to become a one-denominational country. Jefferson allayed their fears, saying we are a Christian nation, but we will not become one-denominational like they experienced in England.

Dan Zanoza, Executive Director