Reed Secular Alliance

Books for Sale at the AHA Conference

Editor’s Note:  This is the second of a four part series on the American Humanist Association’s 68th annual conference, which RSA President, Leslie Zukor, is attending.  The event, which is taking place in Phoenix, brings together humanists from across the United States, to discuss issues as diverse as non-theist ethics and the Obama administration’s attitudes toward non-believers.  We hope that you will enjoy Zukor’s reflections.

Secular Student Alliance Poster

Although I missed the early morning lectures, I still had a great time at the second day of the AHA Conference.  In point of fact, most of Friday was spent socializing with the Secular Student Alliance.  My interactions with staff humanized my longest standing relationship with a national non-theist group.  This is my fourth year as a member of the Secular Student Alliance, and I am excited to continue my relationship with the nation’s only freethought organization explicitly advocating for the interests of atheist students.

SSA intern Jonathan Sussman talks with Stephen Uhl

While I had always believed in the Secular Student Alliance’s mission, no longer were August Brunsman and Lyz Liddell mere names on an email.  Instead I talked with SSA staff about topics as diverse as the Freethought Books Project and my blogging and photography skills.  Lyz Liddell, intern Jonathan Sussman, and I tabled for the SSA, while August was in meetings, and during that time, we discussed the merits of various freethought clubs.

Secular Student Alliance Campus Organizer Lyz Liddell

In addition to socializing with the SSA, I attempted to inquire about the Secular Student Alliance Board of Directors results.  Unfortunately, my dreams of SSA Board glory were met with a “We’ll see on Tuesday” response from staff.  Although that wasn’t the answer I wanted to hear, I anxiously await the results.  Since I strongly believe in the mission of the Secular Student Alliance, I want to do whatever I can to advance the cause of humanism on campuses across the country.

August Brunsman explains the merits of the SSA

Although I spent a long while tabling for the SSA, there was still time to attend the William Lobdell lecture about Losing My Religion.  Lobdell, who spoke last week in Portland, gave a similar version of his speech at Powell’s books in Portland.  This time, however, Lobdell was careful not to critique the atheist movement.  Instead of telling freethought groups that they have no social skills, he appealed to those without religion by emphasizing his non-belief.  It was his conviction that the true debate was not between atheism and theism, but whether or not someone believed in a personal god.

Amanda Metskas is interviewed about Camp Quest

Since I was invigorated by meeting so many atheist activists today, I am quite excited for tomorrow’s session.  The keynote will be given by renowned atheist blogger, PZ Myers.  It should be a great time.