Up until now, it seems the atheist community has done a decent job of getting messages out in public in a way that will do some real good.  I’ve seen several billboards and bus signs that do a good job of letting other non-theists know they are not alone.  Not a great job, but a good job.

Then comes along this from the Freedom From Religion Foundation.

Let me start by saying I’m an atheist, separation of church and state is critical, and I agree this sign is telling the truth to the best of our ability as a human species about the topic.

At the same time, putting this particular sign and message up next to religious displays like a nativity scene was just stupid.

• Are they winning people over?  No.
• Are they putting forth a positive message for non-theists?  No.
• Are they celebrating the secular aspects of the holidays?  No.
• Are they creating and nurturing any views out there among the religious majority that atheists are rude, inconsiderate, and should be thought of as the enemy?  YES!

Now to address some of the specific comments in the video embedded below.

“Christians came along and basically stole this time of year”

Dan, I’m an atheist.  This statement makes me want to ask what is wrong with you.  It’s true that this time of year had celebrations since long before the Judeo-Christian religions of today where invented.  You need not convince me of this.  To say that Christians “stole it” is simply ludicrous and carries the implication that every Christian out there who celebrates it is doing something harmful and destructive to us non-theists.  It’s just wrong, and I don’t know how you justify it.

“We see the nativity scene as a direct attack on good human values and we would like our place at the table as well”

Your “We” does not include me.  It sounds as if you are taking the worst parts of their religion and applying it to one of their most peaceful symbols.  The nativity is a cultural tradition….the Christian bible doesn’t even support the historical authenticity of it very well.  Again, I would like to see your logic in calling this a “direct attack on good human values.”  Perhaps that’s true from the standpoint of ideological zealotry, but not from a pragmatic, critical view of the world.

“If atheists want their own federal holiday sir, go to congress”

This seems to me an expected reaction.  Instead of a message of inclusion and/or separation of church and state, Dan and company have come to the table with the message that Christians stole our holiday.  If I were in the other shoes, I would also feel like Christmas is under attack.  It would be like showing up to a Thanksgiving celebration with a sign that says “The pilgrims were sexist, misogynistic people!”  -It may be true, but what a killjoy to pin point a negative aspect and act as if it represents the whole holiday.

I enjoy Christmas.  My birthday is Christmas Day, but aside from that, I love the traditional meals, giving presents, and being with family and friends.  I love Christmas carols, even the explicitly religious ones.  Why can’t we enjoy the holidays right alongside Christians, Muslims, Jews, etc?

“that little baby who became the dictator”

Again, you seem to take a black-and-white view of the world.  One of the reasons I started doubting religious dogma was because of the all-or-nothing approach.  Either you are saved by Jesus, or you go to hell.  You’re not convincing anyone, and not winning any points.  Instead, you sound like as much of a zealot as the religious right.

Possible Alternatives for atheist holiday signage

We can still be represented and visible without being offensive.  Here are some ideas that could sit alongside religious displays without offending (reasonable people).

• Peace on earth and good will to all!
• Atheists love this time of year too!  Happy holidays!
• Happy Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and whatever reason to celebrate that you have!
• During this holiday season, remember that we are all brothers and sisters regardless of our differences.  Happy holidays!

I’d love to hear your thoughts.  Leave a comment!

Related blog entries elsewhere:

• Freedom of Religion? Most Americans Don’t Buy It
• Freedom OF Religion not FROM it.
• Generalized Grievances & Hein v. Freedom from Religion Foundation, Inc.
• Freedom From Religion Have Their Atheist Sign Stolen Photo
• Church Growth–>Freedom From Religion
• Washington: Freedom From Religion?
• Freedom From Religion’s Atheist Display in Washington State Capitol
• Freedom From Religion Foundation
• Washington Allows Atheist Anti-Religion Sign Next to Nativity
• Only In Washington: Freedom Against Religion?
• Religion is but Myth and Superstition.
• Atheists Trying To Spoil Christmas
• Debating Atheist Nihilism
• You Don’t Need Religion to be a Jerk

Technorati Tags: atheism, christine gregoire, Christmas, Christmas carol, dan barker, daniel barker, Freedom From Religion Foundation, Holiday greetings, religion, Religion and Spirituality, Thanksgiving