Atheists Call for Probe of Afghanistan Bible Incident

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http://www.atheists.org
http://www.americanatheist.org

ATHEISTS CALL FOR CONGRESSIONAL PROBE OF AFGHANISTAN BIBLE INCIDENT

An Atheist public policy group today called upon Congress to investigate
the unauthorized distribution of bibles by U.S. military troops in
Afghanistan.

The incident was revealed on the Al Jazeera television network, and
consisted of video shot by a U.S. filmmaker.  It shows military
chaplains at Bagram Air Force base planning distribution of bibles
printed in the native Pashto language to Muslims.  Such an act
reportedly violated regulations.

Kathleen Johnson, Military Director for American Atheists says that the
year-old video footage is "a public relations disaster for the United
States."

"This film depicts our troops as modern-day 'crusaders' who are out to
proselytize and convert Muslims," said Johnson.  "We're supposed to be
fighting terrorism and helping the Afghanis build a new civil society
that educates women, protects human rights and brings economic
development.  Religious conversion is not and should not be on our
government's to-do list."

Dave Silverman, Communications Director for American Atheists, said that
Congress needs to investigate.  "We've been told that the Bibles were
destroyed when the Al Jazeera documentary came to light; what we don't
know is whether this practice is continuing, and we can't trust the
military brass on this issue."

"We already know that the chaplains were trying to cover-up the incident
when they claimed that the bibles -- printed in a foreign tongue -- were
for 'personal use.  That doesn't make sense."

Silverman also cited a sermon by Lt. General Gary Hensley, chief of
military chaplains in Afghanistan, preaching that troops were followers
of Jesus Christ and should "be witnesses for him."

"This is mixing private religion with an official military mission.  No
branch of our government, including the Pentagon, should be promoting
religion, especially when Islamic fundamentalism is one of the major
problems in Afghanistan."

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.

American Atheists, Inc.
PO BOX 158
Cranford, NJ 07016
Tel.: (908) 276-7300
Fax: (908) 276-7402