The Atheists, Humanists, & Agnostics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has this lovely habit of taking advantage of the open forum in the State Capitol Building. In the past, to counter the religious displays, they’ve put up signs honoring gods from Game of Thrones during Winter and celebrating Obi-Wan Kenobi over Easter.

They’ve done it again this year, with a secular Nativity scene with the Flying Spaghetti Monster in the manger.

Underneath the image, the caption reads:

Think this is ridiculous? We agree! Religious ideas should not be promoted within the halls of government. Protect the separation of church and state, it protects us all.

Group president Emily Pyszora explained why this display was important to put up this time of year, and it’s not because the goal was to offend people who see it.

“I hope that those who visit the capitol during the holiday season will be able to see themselves represented in our display. If not, I hope that those who are religious or not secular identifying are able too to understand why there is still a need and fight to be had for the separation of church and state”.

There haven’t been any complaints yet, but the holiday season is young. In the meantime, let us praise the Blessed Virgin Olive Oil.

