This year will be my first time attending an American Atheists national convention. Since I’ve never been before, you may not believe me when I say: You really need to make your way to Philadelphia this March 28-31!
But you don’t have to take my word for it. I asked three of our special guests what they’re most looking forward to about presenting at the atheist event of the year. Here’s what they said:
“I cannot WAIT to be among my people! I’ll be talking about the political urgency – and personal rewards – of being an unapologetic atheist in America. Our job is simple: make it normal to be an atheist and make it weird to bring up God in government.” –Kate Cohen, columnist for The Washington Post and author of We of Little Faith: Why I Stopped Pretending to Believe (and Maybe You Should Too)
“I’ve learned so much from people who escaped high-control environments. They offer a model of rebellion against false authorities in a time when we collectively face similar challenges. I can’t wait to share their stories.” -Sarah Stankorb, journalist and author of the national best-seller Disobedient Women: How a Small Group of Faithful Women Exposed Abuse, Brought Down Powerful Pastors, and Ignited an Evangelical Reckoning (Be sure to check out her latest piece in Newsweek!)
“What brings us together is not only the lack of belief in a god or gods but a shared desire to do good and seek the truth. That’s why I’m excited to share a first look at my book about how parents and others who worry about children’s well-being can begin to harness science and social justice as we raise the next generation.” -Kavin Senapathy, award-winning science journalist and author of the forthcoming book The Progressive Parent: Harnessing the Power of Science and Social Justice to Raise Awesome Kids
This year’s full line-up of speakers is exciting, but my fellow staff members tell me the social events are what really make our convention stand out. Between a pub quiz, a dance party, and a cabaret show, it sure sounds like there’s going to be something for everyone. And in an effort to make our convention as accessible as possible, we’re offering special admission rates for local activists, students, military members, and more.
Based on everything I’ve heard, I’m especially looking forward to our service project! We’ll be packing thousands of meals for Philadelphians in need, and I honestly can’t think of a better way to spend Easter Sunday than doing something good and meaningful with new, free-thinking friends, like you. Like Madalyn Murray O’Hair said, “Two hands working can do more than a thousand clasped in prayer.”
If you really can’t join us in Philadelphia this year, you can still help us make a difference by donating $15, $35, or $50 to help us reach our goal of $12,000 – that’s 24,000 meals! Plus, whatever amount you choose to contribute will be doubled thanks to a generous matching fund.
Like our speakers, I can’t wait,
Melina Cohen
Communications Director
PS: Good news! Our venue – the historic Loews Hotel smack-dab in the heart of Center City and only steps from City Hall – has agreed to a deadline extension, so you still have some time to book a room at our special group rate of just $159 per night. But don’t wait too long!
PPS: Is this going to be your first time attending an American Atheists convention, too? Be sure to come find me, and we’ll compare notes!
American Atheists is a 501(c)(3) non-partisan, nonprofit educational organization that relies on the support of members like you. Contributions are tax-deductible. Our Federal Tax ID Number is 74-2466507 and our Combined Federal Campaign number is 52217.
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