Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, at the request of the American Humanist Association and three of its local chapters, has signed a proclamation declaring February 12, this year and each year hereafter, "Charles Darwin Day" in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Today marks the 200th anniversary of Darwin's birth. Maybe they should try passing these kind of proclamations down in the bible belt?
The draft proclamation that was sent to the governor read as follows:
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the date of February 12, 2009, marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin; and
WHEREAS, Charles Darwin is recognized for his landmark scientific achievements, most notably his development of the theory of evolution by natural selection; and
WHEREAS, Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection, as explained in understandable terms in his landmark book The Origin of Species and other subsequent works, is recognized as the foundation of modern biology, a key tool in understanding the natural world and the development of life on earth; and
WHEREAS, Darwin's works have enabled humanity to make great advances in science, medicine, philosophy, and other endeavors, challenging conventional views and encouraging critical thinking;
BE IT DECLARED THAT the date of February 12, this year and each year hereafter, shall be known as Darwin Day in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, whereby the citizens of the Commonwealth shall be encouraged to celebrate and recognize the life and works of Charles Darwin, and his contributions to the betterment of all of humanity.