Atheists Want Rhode Island Firehouse Cross Removed

Religion Today | Published: Apr 25, 2012

Atheists Want Rhode Island Firehouse Cross Removed

April 26, 2012

Atheists and other activists are calling for the removal of a cross on a World War I memorial in front of a local firehouse in Rhode Island, CBN News reports. The Freedom From Religion Foundation says the cross -- which tops a stone structure that has stood in front of the firehouse since 1921 -- is a religious symbol and thus should not be displayed on public property. In a letter to the mayor of Woonsocket, R.I., the group claimed the cross "impermissibly demonstrates a preference for religion over nonreligion," and also called out a popular "Firefighters Prayer" posted on the fire department's website. Mayor Leo Fontaine has so far not indicated any plans to remove the cross.

Atheists Want Rhode Island Firehouse Cross Removed