AMERICAN ATHEISTS today announced its full support for the “Rally for Reason” protest slated for Monday, May 28, 2007 (Memorial Day) at the grand opening of a creationist “museum” operated by an evangelical religious group in Boone County, KY. The $27 million facility is a project of the Answers in Genesis group which promotes a literal, biblical view of how life and universe ostensibly began, and challenges mainstream scientific findings about evolution. The museum will reportedly include exhibits reflecting the inaccurate claim that dinosaurs and human beings co-existed in a “Garden of Eden” style Earth, and that our planet was fashioned by the Judeo-Christian deity approximately 6,000 years ago. The “Rally for Reason” is calling on all groups — including Atheists, Freethinkers, Humanists and other non-believers — as well as religious, civic and educational organizations that support good science to join in the peaceful protest outside the gates of the “Answers in Genesis.” According to Edwin Kagin of the RfR, the rally is not challenging the right of AIG to present their world view. “They can teach that things fall up if they wish,” said Mr. Kagin. “We are simply trying to show that the views they are promoted are not accepted by those who do not share their fundamentalist religious views, and their effort to sneak those teachings into the public schools.” “Our organization endorses this important action to speak out against creationist pseudo-science,” said Ellen Johnson, President of American Atheists. “The scientific enterprise must be kept free from meddling by religious or other groups. Good science is a foundation for any enlightened civilization, and we want to support that as a cultural and political value.” WHAT: Peaceful protest outsides the gates, opening for the Answers in Genesis creationist museum WHERE: Bullittsburg Church Road, Exit 11 off Rt. 275, Boone County, KY. WHEN: Monday, May 28, 2007 (Memorial Day) beginning at 9:00 AM MORE INFO: “Rally for Reason” web site at http://rallyforreason.arkonuts.com/ or contact:Ellen Johnson, President of American Atheists (908-276-7300); Dave Silverman, Communications Director for American Atheists (___________________________); or Edwin Kagin (859-384-7000) (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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