Religious lettering that was uncovered during a renovation of a centuries-old Virginia courthouse recently left atheists up in arms, with activists demanding that the historic lettering be removed or covered up.
According to the Nelson County Times, government officials found the words, “Virtus—Keep God’s Commandments—Veritas” last winter while renovating an old Nelson County courtroom that dates back to 1810.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation, an atheist activist group, responded to thediscovery of the writing by calling the display an “overtly religious proclamation” and demanding that it be covered up. The Nelson County Board of Supervisors reportedly voted that, for the time being, removable panels be placed over it.