women atheists

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Comment by Diana on August 9, 2010 at 4:25pm

You're right, women who want change must cover many fronts at once. I have been a teacher for many years, and I was thorough, but subtle, in my teaching of change and thinking beyond what they walked in with. I had to be careful, for myself, but anyway, early high school kids respond better to a nudge than a command. My grown children are feminist and atheist, and granddaughters are headed there, too.

I'm really enjoying my current role of outspoken old lady atheist, because nobody can affect my life anymore. Finally, finally, I can say and do whatever I want.

But you younger ones, you still have much to struggle for.

Comment by Sushi Q on August 9, 2010 at 2:57pm

Diana, I completely agree. It really bothers me how much all this is perpetuated every generation, often unthinkingly, sometimes resignedly.

Female atheists have more than one front we are fighting on, and I'm just saying that it can be one reason we see fewer willing to put it out there. We are already embattled just by virtue of being women.

I do what I can in my own life, and wish more women were willing to take the risks that we are, both against patriarchy and its religious underpinnings.

Comment by Diana on August 9, 2010 at 2:23pm

It's a good idea to remember that the patriarchal system is comprised of us, our sons, daughters, husbands/sig. others, friends, co-workers, bosses, neighbors, and so on. Politics is local, first. We each must risk what we can to spread a different way. That's the only way deep change ever comes about.

Comment by Sushi Q on August 9, 2010 at 12:30pm

It's a sympton of the whole patriarchal system that wants to control us and teaches us from Day 1 to internalize a second class status.

Men don't want to give up their (unearned) privilege, and atheist men are no exception. So they will marginalize us no matter where we are found or what we believe or don't. Religion institutionalizes our oppression, absolutely - but until we are respected as fully human OUTSIDE of religion as well, it doesn't necessarily look any better to be a woman outside of that frying pan.

Comment by Cobbie Tigerpaw on August 9, 2010 at 11:35am

For some reason there seems to be not as many women atheists out there. I went to a live taping of the Skeptics Guide to the Universe and I was one of only a handful of women. It puzzles me because so many religions are so oppressive and negative towards women and I don't know why women would buy into all that crap.

Comment by Diana on August 8, 2010 at 8:40am

Coming out is my goal now. But seriously, people can lose jobs over this, so I understand when some hide. I'm so glad that this year I don't have to start off the school year standing with hundreds of people in an auditorium, while everybody holds hands, closes their eyes, and prays with the superintendent and a local xian minister. Yes, I know I could bring a lawsuit, but I'm outta there now.

Comment by Kerry Logan on August 7, 2010 at 9:49pm

Bingo! @Diana. You hit the nail right on the head!

Comment by Diana on August 7, 2010 at 12:58pm

It's just that many, not all, Christians feel shocked and challenged just hearing the word atheist. They take it as a slap in the face, even though it is not meant that way. Although they frequently claim to be persecuted, they really are not used to being contradicted except on minor points.

Comment by Susan Stanko on August 7, 2010 at 11:37am

I have been accused of aggressive atheism for just STATING that I am an atheist.

Comment by Kerry Logan on August 7, 2010 at 9:22am

I do think women are more prone to being closet atheists. We know that to others, it is seen as fighting words, instead of a simple declarative statement about your belief or non-belief system. If I find that I want to soften the blow, I often state I'm agnostic instead. It is still an excuse but I find it more honest than simply smiling and thanking someone for praying for me in a time of need. So I'll say, thank you for your positive thoughts. But I'm agnostic so don't trouble your god with details of my private life. ;-) Which doesn't go over very well either....

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