July 4, 2012 - Indivisible Day in Minnesota

While he was governor of Minnesota, Jesse Ventura declared July 4 to be Indivisible Day—a day celebrating the separation of church and state.

Ventura pointed out the importance of this separation by quoting “founding father” James Madison, who wrote, “The purpose of separation of church and state is to keep forever from these shores the endless strife that has soaked the soil of Europe in blood for centuries.” Madison was right—there have been countless wars in Europe over which religion is the “right” one, and millions of people have died over religious differences.

Thanks to Madison, Jefferson, and other founders, the U.S. Constitution specifically states that the government shall not establish a state religion, nor make laws that favor a particular religion. Instead, the Constitution insists that the American people are free to worship any religion (or no religion) they choose.

Ventura called the day “Indivisible Day” to urge people to provide mutual respect and equal protection for all, including people of different religions. He said such equality was crucial if America were to remain “one nation, indivisible.”

(Of course, Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, is also celebrated in Minnesota today!)