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Permalink Reply by Jean Smith on February 18, 2010 at 12:46am

Not to rain on anyones parade, but you know religious types are going to see a different meaning in "You are not alone."

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Permalink Reply by Dave G on February 18, 2010 at 12:21pm

Actually, that interpretation has come up surprisingly little with this particular billboard style. Far, far more often it's seen as 'a hateful attack on Christianity', which is far more bizarre.

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Permalink Reply by Ruthe on February 18, 2010 at 1:41pm

All too often our actions are irrationally perverted into "persecution" by angry theists. Even when we deliberately get aggressive, to make, in context, relevant points, our arguments for doing so are quite valid and sensible. Anti-atheist bigotry is a huge problem. Combatting it is equally as important as reaching out to atheists.

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Permalink Reply by Ruthe on February 18, 2010 at 11:26am

Jean, the DetroitCoR.org message isn't directed to, nor meant to be confrontational with, theists. The message is reaching out to local nonbelievers, especially those who feel isolated. We're providing locals with a one stop shopping place of local group descriptions and contacts, and a calendar of all the local events going on.

Last summer I worked with the Detroit Grassroots Atheism Project on the sidewalks of downtown Royal Oak, MI, a semi-urban, liberal leaning, suburb of Detroit, as an atheist point of contact with the public. I found it most rewarding to connect with atheists who felt alone. The joy and relief they expressed upon meeting other atheists, and proud to be, was quite inspiring. Here's a photo of us.

I come across this often at Detroit Atheists Meetup too. So many new members are so relieved to find people they can talk to about their atheist experience trials and tribulations. They are so appreciative of the support and friendship proud, outed atheists can give them.

I love being able to connect isolated atheists with atheist community!

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