Atheists are becoming a force to be reckoned with. They are a powerful ally when inspired to take action -- and a powerful opponent when they're treated like dirt.
The most fervent advocates of religion in the modern world are also the most deeply inculcated with the mindset of command and obedience, which has dangerous consequences.
If anyone tries to make you feel ashamed, or inferior, or like your life will be dreary and intolerable because you don't believe in this lie they're telling you that's not OK.
Although it's Republicans who are primarily making the charge that atheists are un-American, Democrats aren't exactly lining up to defend non-believers.
If you look closely there are promising signs that American attitudes are changing in a way that may blunt the impact of religion on politics and culture.