Since 1963, American Atheists has protected the absolute separation of religion from government through legal advocacy, innovative education and public relations campaigns, legislative tracking, and community building and engagement. With more than 170 affiliates and local partners nationwide, American Atheists has a network of communities and activists ready to engage…...
American Atheists Bids Fond Farewell to National Legal and Public Policy Director Amanda Knief
Washington, DC—Today, American Atheists announced the departure of National Legal and Public Policy Director Amanda Knief on June 9 after more than five years with the organization. Amanda has served as Managing Director, In-House Counsel, and as National Legal and Public Policy Director during her time at American Atheists....
Atheists Threaten Lawsuit After Trump Executive Order Gives Special Treatment to Churches
Cranford, NJ—After President Donald Trump signed an executive order today instructing the IRS to ignore future violations of the prohibition on electoral politicking by churches and religious groups, American Atheists pledged a lawsuit challenging the unconstitutional preference of houses of worship over secular nonprofits, including American Atheists, in the order.…...
Lawsuit Challenging Pennsylvania House of Representatives Discriminatory Invocation Policy Moves Forward
Harrisburg, PA—A federal district court today has allowed a lawsuit challenging the discriminatory invocation policy of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to move forward. “We’re pleased the court has decided that this lawsuit can continue,” said Amanda Knief, legal director for American Atheists. “There is no question that this policy…...
Atheists Invite San Antonio Mayor to Meet Constituents After Anti-Atheist Remarks
San Antonio—In remarks at a candidate forum this month, San Antonio, TX mayor Ivy Taylor linked systemic poverty to a lack of a “relationship with [a] creator,” adding that those without such a relationship did not have good relationships with their families and communities and were “not being productive members…...
Statement on ‘The Most Hated Woman in America’ Film
American Atheists would like to thank the producers of the film The Most Hated Woman in America for shining a light on a passionate, devoted, and tireless advocate for the absolute separation of religion from government. Madalyn Murray O’Hair’s contribution to our nation’s history and the direction of atheist activism…...