We’ve been told to fear a “woke mob,” but the real mob in Iowa consists of extremist Christians determined to control public spaces, silence dissenting beliefs, and deny constitutionally protected rights to all Iowans.
Just this weekend, Adam Steen, Governor Reynolds’ handpicked official, canceled the Satanic Temple of Iowa's approved holiday event at the Statehouse, citing vague concerns about “harmful elements” to minors. Yet the state has no issue granting Christian groups the same access. This wasn’t about protecting children—it was about weaponizing state power to impose one religion over all others.
This is part of a troubling pattern. Last year, a Christian extremist drove thousands of miles to destroy a Satanic holiday display at the Capitol. In places like Toledo and Tama County, Christians demonized atheists and Satanists who dared challenge their dominance over taxpayer-funded spaces. These actions aren’t about protecting faith—they’re about enforcing a single worldview while silencing everyone else.
One day, you might learn your child, neighbor, or coworker identifies as an atheist or Satanist. Will they feel safe? Will their rights be respected? Will you still love them?
To moderate Christians and pastors: this is your moment to speak out against this mob of extremists. Religious freedom belongs to everyone—not just Jesus lovers. Standing silently allows theocracy to grow. Will you defend equality, or will you let the mob speak for your faith?
Bio: Justin Scott is a proud father, husband and atheist activist that has been fighting to keep religion and government separate for nearly a decade. His advocacy includes establishing the Eastern Iowa Atheists, delivering the first ever atheist prayer inside the Iowa State Capitol while ending government sponsored prayer across Iowa, and earning numerous national awards including American Atheist's coveted "Atheist of the Year" award. He can be reached at iowaatheist247@gmail.com.
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