The Atheist Lobbys Leader in Washington Reflects on His First Year in the Position

[rug]

January 17, 2017
by Hemant Mehta

It was just over a year ago that Larry T. Decker, a self-described “unaffiliated Christian” at the time, became the new Executive Director for the Secular Coalition for America, a lobbying group representing atheists on Capitol Hill.

When he took over, the organization was going through a chaotic time with the dismissal of their previous leader, but he was eager to get to work. There was an election coming up and a lot of work to do to make sure our voices were heard.

I had a chance to ask him several questions (via email) about himself, the organization, and what lies ahead for atheists interested in having a seat at the table in politics. (The interview has been slightly edited for clarity.)

What are the biggest priorities for atheists under a Trump administration? Which ones are actually achievable?

http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2017/01/17/the-atheist-lobbys-leader-in-washington-reflects-on-his-first-year-in-the-position/

[guillaumeb]

1. From the article:

Of course, a lawmaker does not have to be an atheist to defend atheists. Secularism is and always will be the only way to guarantee religious freedom for people of all faiths and none.
There are many members of Congress, some of whom are devout people of faith, who recognize this fact. Just one example is Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), who at our 2015 Lobby Day said: “When I think about this country’s founding, the central tenet of secular governance, I also think about the importance of doubt and of humility. As a person of faith, I think it’s foundational to our country that if we allow people to choose their path of faith, they must of course be also free, welcomed, celebrated, to choose not to have faith in a supreme being.”

Agreed.