AMERICAN ATHEISTS, INC.
                           National Office
                P.O. Box 140195  Austin, TX 78714-0195
                            (512)458-1244

http://www.atheists.org                               For Immediate Release
PRESS RELEASE                                         November 19, 1997

                            ATHEISTS JOIN
                   "NATIONAL BIBLE WEEK" ACTIVITIES

    American Atheists today annnounced that its members and state directors
will participate in this year's "National Bible Week" activities with public
readings from the bible.

    American Atheists President Ellen Johnson said today that "American
Atheists has always encouraged the public to read both the Old and New
Testaments from cover to cover.  Many people become Atheists after reading
the bible."

    American Atheists National Spokesperson Ron Barrier added, "We welcome
the opportunity that the religious community is giving us to share our
perspective of the uncensored bible with the public.  It had a significant
effect on my life."

    American Atheists, however, admonished public officials to refrain from
endorsing any schemes like "National Bible Week," lest they violate the
constitutionally mandated separation of politician and pulpit."

For more information please contact:
Ms. Ellen Johnson, President      (723)334-4033   ej@atheists.org
Mr. Ronald Barrier, Spokesperson  (718)356-8658   rbarrier@atheists.org