We Support Dan Ashta's Pledge Protest

American Legion Commander Joseph Lampert recently told Morton Grove Park District Commissioner Dan Ashta that the Legion wouldn't provide the park district with $2,600 of funding because Ashta refused to stand up for the Pledge of Allegiance.

In essence, Lampert believes veterans have fought and died for our Constitution... but his group will punish anyone who exercises his First Amendment rights in an "improper" way.

As atheists (and allies) who don't believe there's a connection between standing up for the Pledge of Allegiance and loving our country, we're appalled by this childish display of "true patriotism." Ashta took a respectable stand and the Morton Grove Park District shouldn't be penalized for his actions.

We want to raise $2,600 so the Morton Grove Park District can make up for the budget hole left by the American Legion's uncharitable and petty actions.

Here's the rest of my story with all the details.