The weekly report on US and World public policy
by Edwina Rogers
Second Secularist Hacked to Death in Bangladesh
Religious students have hacked to death another critic of Islam, the second such tragedy to be carried out this year. Washikur Rahman, a secular blogger who has written about the rights of minorities and dangers of radical Islam, was killed in a busy public street in Bangladesh. His wife, Rafida Ahmed, was seriously injured in the attack. Two of the three attackers were caught by police as they fled the scene. 
Only last month, Avijit Roy, another blogger critical of Islam, was murdered murdered in the same way. We stand by, and offer our condolences to, the families of both of the two victims of religiously-motivated violence, and reaffirm our belief in free speech the world over.
New Bill Would Force US Air Force Members to Take Religious Oath
US Congressman Sam Johnson has declared that US military members have freedom of religion – but not freedom from religion. He has introduced new legislation that would force all Air Force members, regardless of religious beliefs, to say “so help me God” when taking oath. Public backlash has been fierce, with some even calling for Johnson to be tried for treason. There seems a small chance of the law being passed, but it won’t be for lack of effort from Johnson.
We Join the International Coalition Against Blasphemy Laws
SPI has become the newest members of ICABL, a group committed to repealing blasphemy laws wherever they exist. Find out more about ICABL and how you can help fight the good fight!
Catholic Bishops Seek Conscience Protection from Referring Trafficking Victims to Contraceptives and Abortion
It’s no news that religion has played a strong role in US legislation and policy. But the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is attempting to further blur the lines by lobbying to receive funds from Trafficking Victims Protection Act. Their deal? They want to be allowed to refuse referrals to contraceptives and abortions, two of the most important services these victims may need. There is precedent that could allow this decision to swing in either direction. Find out more about this complicated situation and what factors are influencing the final decision.
SPI Introduces Women’s Task Force
We are proud to announce our new Women’s Task Force, a program designed to support and promote the development of an affirming, accessible environment for the equitable inclusion and participation of women within the Secular Policy Institute and the constituencies it serves. In its advisory role, the Task Force conducts reviews and fashions recommendations regarding procedures and policies that promote gender equality in support of the Institute and its stipulated objectives. Anyone who is interested should contact me at edwina@secularpolicyinstitute.net.