Atheism in the US has long skewed white and male, a reality that’s now being confronted by a new generation of activists. Why the disparity, and how can the secular movement better serve communities of color?
Cultural stigma plays a role: for many Black, Latino, or immigrant families, church isn’t just about faith but community resilience. Coming out as atheist can mean social exclusion on top of existing prejudice. Meanwhile, many secular spaces have historically failed to acknowledge racism or champion causes like police reform, making them feel alien or even hostile to minorities.
Change is coming. Organizations like Black Nonbelievers and Latino Atheists create safer spaces; more leaders are publicly “coming out.” Still, allies must listen more and focus on justice, not just philosophy. Only then will secularism be truly inclusive.
