Hey psy,
I am not using the word atheist in our name or mission statement. But in the general info section I do mention that along with what our organization is trying to do, we also serve as a place for atheists, humanists, agnostics, and other non-theists to gather and exchange ideas. Most student organizations double as social clubs, and they should.
But I am not afraid of using the word atheist, as it is more of a word then it is title. I do not believe in any gods so I am atheist. It is the theists out there who claim atheism is a religion. They use misinformation and various other tactics to cloud what it means to be atheist. If there is one thing I learned on the playground growing up, it’s that you have to stand up for yourself.
We will NEVER demystify, enlighten, or improve the image of being an atheist (someone who does not believe in mythological beings) if we run from it. Running away and changing your name is usually not the answer to a problem, especially when every single argument and accusation against you is a lie. When something doesn’t go in the direction that a group of people want in the church, they branch off and start a “new” church. By non-theists breaking off and constantly starting “new” movements or new labels we are just acting more and more like them.
Part of my goal is to enlighten people to the truth. Running from the term atheist is like saying to the world that the theists are right and there really is something wrong with being an atheist. But there isn’t.
In order to change anything I will still identify as an atheist and through my actions I will show people that it is not a bad thing. I want everyone who values reason to be in my group, so it is not limited to “atheists” even tho every single person on this planet who does not believe in fairytale gods…. is an atheist. No matter what they label themselves as.
So it’s up to you really. Helping the image of people who do not believe in gods and demons is part of my goal, along with promoting reason and logic. If you want to narrow it down to only promoting reason, and not worrying about the rest then that is up to you and your group.
Sorry took so long, ,must have missed the email alert.
Cheers
