Happy Darwin Day!

Yes, yes, I know that today is Abraham Lincoln's birthday.

But did you also know that it's Charles Darwin's birthday?  The exact same day?

HAPPY DARWIN DAY!

A few days ago a Resolution was introduced in the House of Representatives  "Expressing support for designation of February 12, 2014, as ``Darwin Day'' and recognizing the importance of science in the betterment of humanity."

Here's the text:Whereas Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by the mechanism of natural selection, together with the monumental amount of scientific evidence he compiled to support it, provides humanity with a logical and intellectually compelling explanation for the diversity of life on Earth;

Whereas the validity of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection is further strongly supported by the modern understanding of the science of genetics;

Whereas it has been the human curiosity and ingenuity exemplified by Darwin that has promoted new scientific discoveries that have helped humanity solve many problems and improve living conditions;

Whereas the advancement of science must be protected from those unconcerned with the adverse impacts of global warming and climate change;

Whereas the teaching of creationism in some public schools compromises the scientific and academic integrity of the United States education systems;

Whereas Charles Darwin is a worthy symbol of scientific advancement on which to focus and around which to build a global celebration of science and humanity intended to promote a common bond among all of Earth's peoples; and

Whereas February 12, 2014, is the anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin in 1809 and would be an appropriate date to designate as ``Darwin Day'': Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the House of Representatives-- (1) supports the designation of ``Darwin Day''; and (2) recognizes Charles Darwin as a worthy symbol on which to celebrate the achievements of reason, science, and the advancement of human knowledge.

Unfortunately, the resolution's been sent to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.  A committee chaired by Lamar Smith of Texas a climate science denier.  The chair of the committee's subcommittee on oversight is chaired by another southerner and science denier named Paul Braun who has said this about evolution:

God’s word is true,” Broun said, according to a video posted on the church’s website. “I’ve come to understand that. All that stuff I was taught about evolution and embryology and Big Bang theory, all that is lies straight from the pit of hell. And it’s lies to try to keep me and all the folks who are taught that from understanding that they need a savior.”

Oh, and he thinks that the planet's about 9,000 years old.

So much for scientific literacy on the House Committee on Science, Space and Technology.