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No one group is monolithic. That is why I think videos like this are important because they demythologized misconceptions we have about cultures. Usually when we think about people of faith, Blacks some to mind. I will let the Anthropologists explain the myriad of reasons but for one, faith for Blacks, particularly in America, have been a source of strength in facing political and social oppression.

However, not ever person of “faith” have been or are theists. One can have faith without that faith being directed towards a god. In addition, one can find strength without relying on religious traditions. Lots of atheists have found strength, including Black atheists.

Earlier this year in New York, atheist billboards were found in black communities and many black residents were offended. My guess is that to them, no one in that community have or will ever subscribe to such thoughts. The thought that they will be convinced through the propaganda was blasphemous.

We must remember that Blacks are a mixture of people with different ideas about politics, art, and religion. Not denying the latter allows us to see the great diversity of a people; instead of limiting them to an image or one representative voice.

For a look into the reality of black atheists check out this enlightening New York Times article by Emily Brennan. And also remember that those we respect in different fields subscribe to atheism (e.g. Neil De Grasse Tyson and Langston Hughes) which debunks the myth that “Black Folks Don’t Do Atheism”. Instead, Black Folks Do Diversity. And that’s just fine!

Black People And Atheism
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