Letter: Prejudice against secularists is not acceptable

Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2003 | 9:16 a.m.

I suggest Murdock simply turn off his TV when programs he considers offensive are showing. That's what I do for such silly shows as "Touched by an Angel" and "Joan of Arcadia." He can also refuse to shop in stores that are open Sundays if that offends him.

But at least he is not being forced to spend his tax dollars to support the offensive shows or businesses. Religious monuments and prayers, such as the Pledge of Allegiance with the words "under God," in private facilities or on television do not offend me. I am, however, offended when I am forced to support these things with public funds. Murdock suggests that secularists quake at the sight of the 10 Commandments. We only quake at being forced to pay for the exhibition of that slab on public property.

While it is considered improper to be prejudiced against someone because of their race or sex or national origin or religious denomination -- it is still not frowned upon to hate atheists. Many in our society still proudly proclaim they would never vote for anyone who did not believe in a supernatural god.

If any tolerance should be shown, it should be tolerance for secularists living in our theistic society and enduring the only prejudice that remains politically correct.

MEL LIPMAN