What is the point of Atheist Activism?

[Eilonnwy]

Haven't had a chance to read through all the responses but what I'm saying is that non-Christians oppose many Christian groups and their religious-related views. But these non-Christians aren't exactly atheists either. So when atheists feel compelled to challenge Christian religious-related views, why do they have to turn it into an atheist vs. Christian issue instead of opening up the circle to include non-Christians as well? Why does it have to be "atheist" vs. Christian instead of just general people who oppose Christian religious-related views? It appears that atheists are no longer standing as individuals but are trying to rally together and form an organization or group of sorts like any other religious group who shares a commonality belief. With atheists, it would be no belief in a deity that is their commonality. I would hope that the interest to join sites like this is more because of similar views and not because one believes or doesn't believe in a god.

One of my favorite organizations is the Americans United for the Seperation of Church and State. It's run by Reverend Barry Lynn, a minister. I have no problem with him supporting the secularist cause. In fact, I greatly respect religious people who support secularism and support everyone's right to believe as they wish. The fact is, however, that the people who constantly try to chip at the separation of church and state are religious. That is the whole point. So while yes, many religious people can support the secular cause, it's ultimately against religious organizations trying to breach the first amendment.

Furthermore, what is so wrong with atheists organizing? I myself am a member of the Boston Atheists and we ultimately try to get people together for social and political reasons. It can be nice to hang out with people who have similar interests, who understand your lack of belief, don't slip in mentions of God while your around. It's ultimately about making friends. I have a lot of things I like to talk about with regards to religion and going to atheist meetups allows me to discuss these things so I don't pester my religious friend. And then, when issues with Church and State crop up, we as a group can band together to make a difference.

Civil Rights was a battle fought to gain equality for people of color. It was ultimately a movement against white privilege. Does that mean there were no whites standing with the blacks, supporting their cause? Are there no straight people defending the rights of gays? Of course there are, and no one would state otherwise.