WATCH: Members of the public speak out against discriminatory bathroom policy at school board meeting

Here’s how members of the public spoke up against a proposed policy at Peoria Unified School District banning trans students from using bathrooms that align with their gender identity. And guess what? Members listened. The proposal was shot down 3-2.
Backlash is expected from the religious right at the next meeting on May 11th at 6PM. If you’re in the district, members will need to hear from you: 6330 West Thunderbird Road, Glendale, Arizona. Speak or just show up early and fill seats.

Phoenix’s Washington Elementary School District folds to ADF lawsuit

A few weeks ago, we accomplished something big. We called on Phoenix’s Washington Elementary School District to end a teacher training contract with the discriminatory Arizona Christian University, over its policies of hate and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people.

Unfortunately, it seems high-powered lawyers from hate group Alliance Defending Freedom have pressured the school district into reversing the decision. Continue reading

Court protects church that shielded abuser, who’s protecting children?

The following opinion was originally published in the Arizona Capitol Times April 17th, 2023.

Justice for children is hard to find. The LDS church shielded a sexual abuser for a decade in Cochise County. When sued, the church sought to escape responsibility by scurrying behind robes. When the Cochise County judge ordered that the bishops and the clerk had to testify, the church filed a special action. Continue reading

Secular Day 2023: Near the Capitol w/ Andrew Seidel and Barbra Seville

Calling all church:state separation supporters… it’s that time of year again!

That’s right, Secular Day at the Capitol is coming up on April 10! Every year, Arizonans gather from all over the state for this chance to meet your lawmakers and hear from special guest speakers. This year, we’re so pleased to welcome constitutional expert Andrew Seidel and drag sensation Barbra Seville!

This year, we’re doing things a bit differently. For reasons not yet known, the AZ Legislature has restricted citizens’ ability to organize events on the House and Senate lawns, as we’ve been doing for over a decade. But we won’t let that stop us — instead, we’re meeting near the Capitol at the Vig Fillmore restaurant. From 11am to 1pm, we’ll enjoy snacks, listen to speakers, help set appointments with your elected officials, and enjoy the company of other secular-minded Arizonans.

We’re hoping for a big turnout, since this event takes place on the heels of the Phoenix-based American Atheists Conference National Convention April 6th-9th.

Space is limited and an RSVP is required – please click here for more details and to reserve your spot.

We’re not charging for this event, but if you are able to make a donation to help us cover catering and speaker costs, we would be very grateful!