oth groups and individuals can be effective in challenging government decrees which commemorate "America's Christian Heritage Week" and "National Bible Week." Start by checking out the history of these events, and reviewing our "talking points."

¶ Get the facts about whether or not these events are taking place in your community and state. You can review our list of cities and states where these events were commemorated through government proclamations last year. You can also contact public officials at the local and state levels to see if proclamations are under consideration, or will be issued.

¶ If there is an effort underway in your area, start by sending letters to local newspapers outlining your thoughts on this issue. If you are in an atheist or freethought group of some kind, consider doing this as an organization as well. You can then follow this by contacting the appropriate officals and voicing your concerns. If the commemoration is to be decided upon at a government meeting, ask to appear (as an individual or with a group) to present your defense of why this would violate state-church separation and marginalize nonbelievers in America.

¶ Consider joining or organizing a peaceful demonstration or some other action to publicize your opposition. This is especially effective when coupled with a letter-writing campaign to newspapers and public officials. City hall buildings, County offices and state capitol buildings are appropriate venues. American Atheist State Directors will be investigating the status of the "Christian Heritage" and "Bible Week" proposals in their respective states, and may organize demonstrations if appropriate. Consider joining these possible actions, or organize your own. Or join American Atheists or some other group you can work with in order to become active on this and other issues.

¶ Educate the news media and raise this issue in your community. If you are active in a local atheist or freethought group, send out press releases on this issue; offer to debate proponents of this scheme (but make sure you are ready and have the facts to argue from a strong First Amendment position).

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