The Pennsylvania House has a longstanding practice of opening its sessions with invocations, which are often delivered by guests from the community. In 2014, several nontheists in the state began making requests to take part in that practice. After they were turned down, they asked Americans United for help.

“Government’s first duty is to treat all citizens equally, regardless of what they may believe or not believe about religion,” said Rachel Laser, president and CEO of Americans United. “Pennsylvania’s House of Representatives failed in that task, and we’re glad the court has set them straight.”

Public meetings are vital government functions that should welcome all citizens to attend and participate. Invocations – especially those that only represent a majority faith and exclude religious minorities and non-believers from participating – can send the exact opposite message.