The British Humanist Association (BHA) is disappointed to learn that the Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG) has appointed 13 ‘faith advisers’ to advise the government department on “the big issues facing society such as the economy, parenting, achieving social justice and tackling climate change.”
Communities Secretary John Denham announced the appointments today by stating that, “For millions of people the values instilled by their faith are central to shaping their behaviour. We should continually seek ways of supporting and enhancing the contribution faith makes to the decision-making process on the central issues of our time.”
Pepper Harow, Campaigns Officer, responded, ‘That the Department for Communities and Local Government are suggesting that these advisers have “unique insights” due to the fact that they are religious is insulting to non-religious people. To go on to assert that this is because they hold particular “values” is outrageous, as it appears to be suggesting that non-religious people do not share these values.
‘In addition, the appointment of these people for their “commitment to faith” gives religious people privileged access to government policy and decision making, effectively raising the importance of religious opinion above that of any other voice in the public sphere. This is already happening at all levels of government via the Faith Communities Consultative Council and various ‘interfaith’ forums across the country.
‘This is leading to discrimination against non-religious people who are unable to become involved in issues which affect them as policy advice is sought specifically from people identified by their religious beliefs. Not only is this disempowering but leaves a large proportion of the population unable to engage with decision making processes. The appointment of these advisers can only make this situation worse.
‘The BHA will be contacting CLG to express our concerns.’
Notes
For further comment or information, contact Pepper Harow on 020 7462 4992.
Read more about our work on Government and ‘faith communities.’
Read the CLG press release on this issue.
The British Humanist Association (BHA) is the national charity representing and supporting the non-religious and campaigning for an end to religious privilege and discrimination based on religion or belief.