Why is it so hard to be openly atheist in today's world

[robvalue]

Hiya, I'm very sorry to hear that. I can tell you that atheists can run for office in USA, probably everywhere, but at the very least most places (someone can clarify). There are laws saying they can't still, but those are overwritten by court rulings.

It is really sad for me when I hear of friendships being dependent on religious beliefs. I'm lucky that in England it's no big deal, I have no need to "come out", it's just not an issue. So that's why I'm here, because I know others are not so lucky. I know it's tough in USA. And even worse, in some muslim countries

I hope you can find more friends who will accept you for who you are. Damn straight, atheists just want to be given equal respect. I feel it will happen in USA, it's lagging behind europe but moving in the right direction.