Welcome and thank you for joining today's show with our very own ObjectivelyDan! We are fortunate to have the one and only Mandisa Thomas with us today who is the founder and president of Black Nonbelievers as our co-host!

First up is Michelle in OH who wants to discuss COVID in the black community and the problem with people believing that god will protect children against the virus. Christianity is at the roots of white supremacy which is behind the lack of health care in black communities. Thinking that god will protect us against the virus is like the new version of snake handlers. Historical racial injustice has been a source of mistrust for medical science and vaccines. We have access to world wide data and information so there is no excuse to not get the jab.

Next we have Dave in NC who is describing how religious coworkers at a “non religious” boys home would project the fictional ideal of demon possession on the residents. There are many organizations that claim they are non-religious to access the tax benefits. Resources are available and groups that can help such as FFRF and ACLU work on these issues so you do not have to go through these things alone.

Next up is Brad in VA talking about his journey to atheism and not feeling comfortable revealing this in a black community. Learning that Christianity was imposed on our ancestors helps to not hold on to the belief as tightly. Many black folks that challenge and come out of religion feel isolated. White people who listen to this show must realize their experience will be different from black nonbelievers who don’t have those cultural molds. Our experiences vary and are important when we come together as a community.

Next is Greg in TX who wants to learn more about the term igtheist and the benefits of being atheist when it comes to things like marriage. When god can take on many definitions, the ignostic label helps to mitigate these different definitions and describe the individual thoughts. People must be true to themselves and use the term that describes their own beliefs. This may mean using the term atheist even when there are stigmas attached. As this movement grows, you are likely to meet people who will use these words in slightly different ways. Growing up in Christian society conditions us to believe that the values held are superior in regards to labels and traditions such as marriage. Christian marriages in particular tend to violate human rights.

Allison in Canada would like to learn about getting involved with activism for indigenous people. Social media is one of the greatest tools that we have and a great way to generate interest for indigenous nonbelievers. Find out what your long term goals are and become part of groups after doing your homework. Connect with your local secular organizations and also national organizations. Research the guidelines and protocols for your area.

That sums it up heathens! We would like to give a special thank you to Mandisa for her insights! For those of you who believe, we don’t hate you. We are just not convinced.

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