Official Statement Regarding Book Bans
Book Bans are a separation of church & state issue. They are also a violation of religious freedom- the paramount principle RI was founded on. Rhode Island Atheists opposes any form of book bans as censorship and denial of individual liberties. Efforts to restrict access to literature and punish librarians are being driven by outside Christian Nationalist organizations, unfamiliar with our state’s critical legacy. These extremist groups are determined to codify their religious precepts in order to control what children can read, learn about and experience.
Currently, the LGBTQ community, women, people of color, and those of different faith backgrounds are the main targets of book bans. Book banning follows a political strategy that attempts to silence diverse religious voices and traditions that are a major part of our state’s culture and identity. When ideas and intellectual freedom are suppressed, equality and inclusion are at risk of extinction. By allowing dominant ideas to be forced upon the public, we give the sense that any other views are wrong.
Everyone should be allowed to choose what they believe, to be able to explore different beliefs freely and have access to learning more about others. We strongly urge our legislators to pass the Freedom to Read Act. By protecting books, librarians, educators and writers from Christian Nationalists’ persecution, we ensure that Rhode Island remain a free state for all.
Joseph Burgio
Director
Rhode Island Atheists
March for science RI Announced!
Stand up for Science during this troubling time
"On March 7, 2025, we rally to defend science as a public good and pillar of social, political, and economic progress. We call on policymakers, institutions, and the scientific community to uphold the integrity of science, protect its accessibility, and ensure its benefits serve all people. To achieve this, we seek the following policy actions."
1. Secure and Expand Scientific Funding
2. End Censorship and Political Interference in Science
3. Defend Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in Science
Op eds, Letters & testimonies
Against Book Bans in Rhode Island -John McDaid
"And let’s not be coy – book bans are ideological. Organized groups seek to remove literature challenging their beliefs, often targeting LGBTQ+ voices, people of color and non-Christian faiths. As a member of Rhode Island Atheists, I know suppressing ideas doesn’t erase them; it only weakens our collective wisdom..."
Rhode Island Day of Reason announced!
Date Announced!
This year's Rhode Island Day of Reason will take place on Tuesday, May 6th with the ceremony held 3PM at the Rhode Island State House! For more information check out our Day of Reason Page.