Religious Discrimination Against the Non-Religious

As you may or may not have heard, the esteemed atheist Richard Dawkins had a scheduled talk in Rochester Hills, Michigan. Well, that didn't exactly happen. It is good to know that this is perfectly acceptable behavior. I understand that it was a private club, but the sad reality is that these people have no fear from public humiliation. They can get away with it (for the most part) relatively unscathed unless Dawkins & Company decide to sue for breach of contract. And we all know what the defense will be.

These sorts of things happen all the time. It rarely gets any media attention. The reasons for this are numerous, but I think one of the primary reasons is that there is a common misconception that atheists and non-believers are a very tiny (if not vocal) minority. And while the non-religious may feel comfortable enough to acknowledge their non-belief in an anonymous poll, most are still not "out" to their friends and family. It gives the religious (Christians in particular) a false sense of security about expressing blatantly discriminatory views.

I'm out. I've been out since high school. And I support anyone who chooses to make their Atheism publicly known. In fact I urge you to, but only if you feel comfortable that it wouldn't create problems in your family life. I wouldn't want anyone to lose a sibling or parent over silly ideas. But for every atheist that raises their hand, it makes it easier and easier for everyone else.