Indiana Governor Supports Cross Statue Despite Atheist Threat

A First Amendment debate is currently waging in the town of Liberty, Indiana, where a national atheist group is contesting a cross-adorned memorial in a local park. Despite atheist objections, Indiana's governor announced Tuesday that he supports the cross statue that honors veterans of World War II. 

The Freedom From Religion Foundation has argued against the 14-inch white cross adorning a carved statue in Whitewater Memorial State Park. Although the cross serves as a memorial to those who served in World War II, the atheist organization says the Christian religious symbol has no purpose in a state-sponsored park.

"No secular purpose, no matter how sincere, will detract from the overall message that the Latin cross stands for Christianity and the overall display promotes Christianity," Rebecca S. Markert, attorney for the Freedom From Religion Foundation, wrote in a letter to the Department of Natural Resources, demanding the cross's removal.

The cross "will send a message that the government only cares about the deaths of Christian soldiers," Markert added.

Despite this recent warning from the FFRF, the DNR announced Tuesday that it would be allowing the cross, which accompanies a large carved statue of a bald eagle, to remain in the park.

Indiana Governor Mike Pence issued a statement supporting the DNR's decision, saying "The freedom of religion does not require freedom from religion."

"The Constitutions of our state and nation more than allow the placement of this Hoosier artist's sculpture on public land. So long as I am Governor, I will defend the right of Hoosiers to display this sculpture in Whitewater Memorial State Park as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of all who have worn the uniform of the United States."