“David Williamson set a high standard that we hope is emulated by future invocation speakers, in Brevard County and throughout America: He offered words of encouragement by focusing on the shared values that unite our communities," said Alex J. Luchenitser, AU's associate vice president and associate legal director. "Elected officials across the country should follow the wise example Brevard County has now set by ensuring that no one is denied an opportunity to solemnize governmental meetings because of their beliefs about religion.”

The insistence by some government officials that there must be a public expression of faith or it doesn’t count is curious.

Government officials have a duty to represent and respect all of their constituents, whether they agree with them on matters of religion or not.