Video: http://video.msn.com/v/us/msnbc.htm?g=a0c23c12-bb4b-49f8-9e21-f56819d444f5&f=00 NBC, COURIC AND TODAY SHOW NEED TO HEAR FROM YOU NOW OVER “NO ATHEISTS IN FOXHOLES” CLAIM, LACK OF BALANCE IN “GOD, AMERICA AND WAR” SEGMENThttp://www.atheists.org/action/alert-05-apr-2006.html In a piece aired on Wednesday, April 5, 2005, NBC “Today Show” host Katie Couric introduced a segment on religious faith in time of military conflict. The piece was narrated by reporter Lester Holt. Ms. Couric stated: “Perhaps you have heard the expression ‘There are no Atheists in foxholes,’ and the men who have occupied the oval office have also turned to a higher power…” The program included mention of Jon Meacham’s book “American Gospel” which discusses the religious faith of national leaders, and featured brief clips of President Bush invoking God. There was, however, no Atheist on the program to challenge the unsubstantiated and inaccurate claim (“There are no Atheists in foxholes”). Nor was mention made of the secular roots of our history, and the fact that our Constitution provides for the First Amendment separation of church and state. The “no Atheists in foxholes” cliche marginalizes and insults millions of Americans who profess “no religion” (American Religious Identification Survey), including those who are serving — or have served — with honor, patriotism and distinction in our nation’s armed forces. Hundreds of these men and women rallied in Washington, DC last Veterans Day for the first “Atheists in Foxholes” Parade and recognition rally ( http://www.atheistfoxholes.org). Imagine if a leading television network had repeated a similar slur against, say, blacks or gays or some other group! But Atheists continue to be “fair game” as long as we do not speak out to correct this unfortunate stereotype. * CONTACT NBC and the “Today Show” now and ask for a clarification and apology over the “no Atheists in foxholes” cliche! We urge you to send letters and e-mails, and phone call to NBC. Be polite and concise. Point out that many Americans who are Atheists, Freethinkers and humanists have answered the call and served our nation in times of war and peace! Address your concerns to: NBC Newsattn: The Today Show30 Rockefeller PlazaNew York, NY 10112 You may also send E-mails to: today@nbc.com * Ask for a reply to your concerns! Politely ask that the network clarifies the inaccurate claim that “There are no Atheists in foxholes,” and point out that this statement is not supported by credible evidence. Many Atheists, freethinker, humanists and other nonbelievers have been “Atheists in foxholes” serving our nation! * Share your letters and replies on this web site. Visit http://www.atheists.org/action/alert-05-apr-2006.html * Spread this Action Alert! Post to discussion boards, e-mail groups and web sites. (AMERICAN ATHEISTS is a nationwide movement that defends civil rights for Atheists; works for the total separation of church and state; and addresses issues of First Amendment public policy.)

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