(THEBLAZE) — A Christmas-themed sign outside of a firehouse in Utica, New York, is drawing the ire of atheists, who argue that its message poses a constitutional violation.
The placard, which is on display at the Utica Fire Department Station 4, reads, “HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS WE LOVE YOU” — a message that the Freedom From Religion Foundation is demanding be immediately taken down, according to a press release from the atheist organization.
In a letter sent to Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri on December 10, the group once again made its case against the sign, calling it illegal “religious endorsement.” This follows a previous note that the Freedom From Religion Foundation sent to fire chief Russell Brooks in April 2014 after “a concerned area resident” reached out to the group.
