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Support the Darwin Day resolution in Congress

Hugh Kramer
Posted: February 12, 2011.

Print: The Examiner

Here’s the text of the resolution:
Expressing support for designation of February 12, 2011, as Darwin Day and recognizing the importance of science in the betterment of humanity.
Whereas Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by the mechanism of natural selection, together with the monumental amount of scientific evidence he compiled to support it, provides humanity with a logical and intellectually compelling explanation for the diversity of life on Earth;
Whereas the validity of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection is further strongly supported by the modern understanding of the science of genetics;
Whereas it has been the human curiosity and ingenuity exemplified by Darwin that has promoted new scientific discoveries that have helped humanity solve many problems and improve living conditions;
Whereas the advancement of science must be protected from those unconcerned with the adverse impacts of global warming and climate change;
Whereas the teaching of creationism in some public schools compromises the scientific and academic integrity of the United States’ education systems;
Whereas Charles Darwin is a worthy symbol of scientific advancement on which to focus and around which to build a global celebration of science and humanity intended to promote a common bond among all of Earth’s peoples; and
Whereas, February 12, 2011, is the anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin in 1809 and would be an appropriate date to designate as Darwin Day: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives—
(1) supports the designation of Darwin Day; and
(2) recognizes Charles Darwin as a worthy symbol on which to celebrate the achievements of reason, science, and the advancement of human knowledge.

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Comments (4)

1. Cheri Howard

How can I actively help to promote this? Has it actually been introduced yet?

posted on February 12, 2011
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2. John Wilkinson

Anything I can do for this? I’m with Cheri, let’s put our puny numbers to work!

posted on February 12, 2011
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How can I get involved as well?

posted on February 12, 2011
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The article gives a link to a page on the website of the American Humanist Association which helps you to send a message to your congressman asking him to vote in favor of this resolution, but it seems too late now, since the date was Feb 12, 2011.

http://action.americanhumanist.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=5815

Want to take bets on whether this passed or not?  On the one hand, Congress is always passing random acts of recognition like National Frozen Foods Day (http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/March/frozenfoodday.htm).  On the other hand, I can see this getting voted down by congressmen who are afraid of being labelled anti-god and anti-country.  Sorry to be a pessimist, but I bet it failed.

posted on February 12, 2011
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