Group Sues to Stop Perry's Prayer Day

The amusingly named Freedom from Religion Foundation isn't happy with Texas Gov. Rick Perry, and it's filed a lawsuit claiming that he's violated the First Amendment ban on government-endorsed religion. Perry organized and promoted a Christian prayer event that the group of atheists and agnostics now wants canceled, the AP reports. The foundation says Perry should not be allowed to use his office to recognize the Aug. 6 event, called The Response.

While the group has no problem with Perry participating in religious services, it claims he shouldn't have initiated the event or used his political position—including his official website and the official state seal—to endorse it. Members also aren't happy Perry plans to give an official proclamation. The Texas governor also invited the Obama administration, Texas lawmakers, and his fellow US governors to attend. Click to read about another group that tried to put the brakes on the National Day of Prayer. (More atheists stories.)