How many black atheists/agnostics do you know? (Isaac, attend, God)

[Haaziq]

I'm still trying to figure out how so many people of my race were duped into joining a religion that was used as a tool to enslave our ancestors.

[Terry05]

Originally Posted by Haaziq

I'm still trying to figure out how so many people of my race were duped into joining a religion that was used as a tool to enslave our ancestors.

I'm still trying to figure that one out

[denverian]

Originally Posted by Haaziq

I'm still trying to figure out how so many people of my race were duped into joining a religion that was used as a tool to enslave our ancestors.

I've often wondered the same thing. I'm white, but my black partner insists on going to church. He'll never answer me when I ask him why he'd believe a religion that was forced on his people. I guess at this point it's just tradition.

[Nivalis]

Originally Posted by Haaziq

I'm still trying to figure out how so many people of my race were duped into joining a religion that was used as a tool to enslave our ancestors.

My stepmother says that God allowed our ancestors to be put into slavery because "they were practicing the wrong religion" and "needed to be put in the right path so we could be saved." Initially, I was shocked that she said that, but then I remembered that I thought that way just a few years ago.

I'm the only black atheist I know. I have met with some agnostics (not strong agnostics, more of the "I don't care" variety.)

[Haaziq]

Originally Posted by Not Made for the South

My stepmother says that God allowed our ancestors to be put into slavery because "they were practicing the wrong religion" and "needed to be put in the right path so we could be saved." Initially, I was shocked that she said that, but then I remembered that I thought that way just a few years ago.

I've heard that before too. It shocks me that there are people who actually believe that.

[Haaziq]

Originally Posted by denverian

I guess at this point it's just tradition.

Well, for one thing, black people tend to be more family oriented. Not to mention, the young always tend to look up to what we call the "Big Momma" character, or oldest living grandma in the family. Because of her age, she is usually considered to be the wisest out of everyone. In addition, there is the whole "Grandma wouldn't lie" thing. So really, when you question black Christians, you're questioning the 'intellect' of the "Big Momma". At least that's how I see it.

[b. frank]

Originally Posted by Haaziq

Well, for one thing, black people tend to be more family oriented. Not to mention, the young always tend to look up to what we call the "Big Momma" character, or oldest living grandma in the family. Because of her age, she is usually considered to be the wisest out of everyone. In addition, there is the whole "Grandma wouldn't lie" thing. So really, when you question black Christians, you're questioning the 'intellect' of the "Big Momma". At least that's how I see it.

That's really interesting -- this post would be a good source of info for use in some of the classes I have taken on religious history in the US.

It makes me wonder -- do you know of any atheist "Big Mommas" that have that same influence on their family? If that doesn't happen now, do you think it will in the future?

[Haaziq]

Originally Posted by b. frank

It makes me wonder -- do you know of any atheist "Big Mommas" that have that same influence on their family?

I don't think any atheist "Big Mommas" exist, lol.

Originally Posted by b. frank

If that doesn't happen now, do you think it will in the future?

I'd give it a few decades seeing as there are some black atheists out there in this day and age. When they age, I'm sure it will happen.

[uglyblackjohn]

Originally Posted by Haaziq

I'm still trying to figure out how so many people of my race were duped into joining a religion that was used as a tool to enslave our ancestors.

When many Blacks weren't allowed to read, many had to rely on the teachings of a pastor or established religious institutions. It's become a habit. I've heard many Blacks who have been in Church their whole lives that believe that if someone reads Revelations or the Bible from front to back, that they'll die or go crazy. Superstitions hold many of them back.
Having said this, I don't think that the Bible in itself is bad. Even from a simple philosophical point of view, it's pretty good. The problems arise in the (mis)interpretations and implementation of those beliefs.

[dorado0359]

Originally Posted by Haaziq

I'm still trying to figure out how so many people of my race were duped into joining a religion that was used as a tool to enslave our ancestors.

I agree....Black people should be running from Christianity.