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Earlier this week, Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts issued a statement in observance of Christmas.
“The Christmas season is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ,” it read. “During our celebrations, let’s remember to spread joy, hope and peace with one another as we strive to exemplify Christ’s sacrificial love for us to the people in our lives. We must not forget the true purpose of the holidays, finding fulfillment in giving and not receiving.”
It continued, “As you gather with your family and loved ones, I encourage everyone to keep in mind the men and women serving our country who are unable to be with their families during this joyful season. We are grateful for their sacrifice and will continue to pray for their safe return home.”
He also put out a proclamation:
Atheists were upset about the proclamation. Hemant Mehta wrote, “(Ricketts) issued a Christmas Day proclamation that went all-in on the Jesus myth, saying that the day was ‘a time for us to celebrate and give thanks for God’s gift of Jesus Christ.'”
State Sen. Megan Hunt criticized the proclamation. According to Mehta, Hunt is an atheist. She called the proclamation “way out of bounds.”
The proclamation was called another example of “Christian nationalism” by atheists, who continue to be deeply offended by something and/or someone they do not even believe exists.
