why we are here
Most theists think it's odd that atheists even need a group of their own. And you know, we agree!
We really wish that public places, public education and public policies were not being shaped more and more by what religionists think their god commands. To sit by and watch this happen is no longer an option. So as concerned members of our north state community we are coming together. We have had our first few meetings, but are only beginning the website development and our members are in the process of providing their input for content. So you'll find several areas with placeholder text and several buttons that are not yet functional.
For now if you want more information about joining our rapidly growing community, please visit visit the Facebook page of Chico Skeptics or send us an email.
what we are doing
Community
We feel that the best way to ensure our future is to teach critical thinking skills at a young age. With school budgets being cut, science education is suffering and young children are getting fewer opportunities to learn how to think critically and for themselves.
Advocacy
Atheists are the most reviled group in America. That means we are constantly at risk of discriminatory practices both locally and at the national level. The only way to change this is by coordinating our efforts and enforcing the secular vision of our founding fathers.
Partnerships
There are many national organizations that provide a variety of services and resources for non-believers. There are also many secular charities that help the needy without proselytizing. We are not alone in our struggle to promote reason, justice and compassion and soon we'll have a comprehensive listing of the major organizations.
our mission
Promote reason, justice and compassion
Truly good decisions can only be made if they are based on sound information, not faith. We believe the best way to do this is by critically assessing any given claim, not by divining Bronze-age edicts to determine what is reasonable, just and compassionate. In today's society, stoning just doesn't seem just.
To promote reason, justice and compassion at the local level, ABC members are helping children to think critically, monitoring the local political process, and providing useful voluntary services where needed.
Separate church and state
During the historic struggles of women's suffrage, civil rights, abortion, gay marriage, stem cell research and other critical issues, powerful religious factions have attempted to conform public policy to their dogma. In fact, during recent elections, religious zeal practically defined partisan politics.
The vision of our founding fathers to prevent religion from gaining special influence over public policy has become blurred and is in desperate need of refocusing. As rational patriots commited to a more just and compassionate society, we believe we have a responsibility to help refocus that vision.
Encourage a community of non-believers
It is easy to feel alone when you don't share a core belief about reality that most of your neighbors hold so dear. We may be non-believers now but many of us came from supportive faith communities and miss the sense of belonging, purpose, and dedication.
That's where a group like ours comes in. ABC members meet regularly to share their lives, have some fun, and to be supported by like-minded folks who truly value what happens in this one and only life.
And we always welcome new members!