First Atheist giving Invocation at Florida Legislature
House of Representatives
January 11, 2018
Invited by Representative Carlos Guillermo-Smith
It is an honor to represent your Humanist, Atheist, and other non-religious constituents and colleagues with a secular invocation.
Those you serve and those around us today include people of different cultures and races, gender identities, levels of financial stability, and backgrounds. They vary in physical and cognitive abilities. They speak many languages. They include people of many faiths and non-faith perspectives. But while we are diverse, we are united by our common humanity.
The deliberations in this chamber are of the highest consequence to the people of Florida. As you work together toward solutions that address challenges facing our state, may you have the fortitude to make difficult choices while holding the needs of the diverse public at the forefront of your decisions.
As we seek to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this month, I am reminded of his words: “The time is always right to do what its right.”
May your leadership be guided by integrity and compassion to uplift all people today and every day of this legislative session.
Thank you for your service and your work today to make a positive, meaningful difference for all.