And speaking of dispiriting...

[fabrisse]

I didn't know this was still true. I'm glad that DC isn't included, but, what the hell, Maryland?
From Wikipedia:
The constitutions of these seven US states ban atheists from holding public office:
Arkansas:
"No person who denies the being of a God shall hold any office in the civil departments of this State, nor be competent to testify as a witness in any Court."[78]
Maryland:
"That no religious test ought ever to be required as a qualification for any office of profit or trust in this State, other than a declaration of belief in the existence of God; nor shall the Legislature prescribe any other oath of office than the oath prescribed by this Constitution.”[79]
Mississippi:
"No person who denies the existence of a Supreme Being shall hold any office in this state."[80]
North Carolina:
"The following persons shall be disqualified for office: First, any person who shall deny the being of Almighty God."[81]
South Carolina:
"No person who denies the existence of a Supreme Being shall hold any office under this Constitution."[82]
Tennessee:
"No person who denies the being of God, or a future state of rewards and punishments, shall hold any office in the civil department of this state."[83]
Texas:
"No religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office, or public trust, in this State; nor shall any one be excluded from holding office on account of his religious sentiments, provided he acknowledge the existence of a Supreme Being."[84]
An eighth state constitution discriminates against atheists by affording special protection to theists only.
Pennsylvania:
"No person who acknowledges the being of a God and a future state of rewards and punishments shall, on account of his religious sentiments, be disqualified to hold any office or place of trust or profit under this Commonwealth."[85]

Comments

[gileswench.livejournal.com]

I'm just glad to see California isn't on that list.

Freedom of religion necessarily includes full citizenship privileges for those who believe not only in ANY religion, but those who believe in NO religion whatsoever. And yes, that includes the right to run for and hold office, if elected.

[fabrisse.livejournal.com]

It is good that California isn't on the list. I just wish there weren't any state on it.

[aizjanika.livejournal.com]

Wow. I did not know that. I live in North Carolina, and I'm an atheist. Not that I was planning to run for office or anything, but still... That's ridiculous.

I can't believe those laws haven't been challenged in the Supreme Court.

[fabrisse.livejournal.com]

Yeah. It's an issue. And I'm not even sure the Supremes would come down on the right side at this point.