September 11th.

"Beliefs might lack all supporting evidence, but, we thought, if people needed a crutch for consolation, where's the harm?" -Richard Dawkins

13 years ago, our generation saw the damage religious beliefs are capable of causing. 

13 years ago, America's "us vs. them" mentality was further strengthened following the attacks, condemning all those of Middle Eastern descent as potential terrorists. 

13 years ago, we realized our nation was not immune from attack and we were not invulnerable. 

13 years ago, we were told Muslim militants committed acts of terror against the United States.

     When religious fundamentalists commit atrocities, their actions are wholly supported by their holy book; they are following the instructions proffered to them via their deity. What does that say about religion as a whole? If the fundamentalists of your religions are considered "extremists" for adhering to scripture and engaging in action as their holy book instructs them to- would that not make them a "good, faithful (insert religion of choice here)," for following the commands of their god?

     As an atheist and secularist, I am often asked why I care so much about religion and why I don't show "an appropriate amount of respect for other people's beliefs." I discuss religion because it often produces detrimental effects upon humanity and society. Because I understand and have borne witness to religion's propensity to coerce its followers into expressing intolerance, demonstrating hate, and committing acts of unspeakable and unimaginable violence. They use their holy book as justification for their terror, hate, and violence. Because I have witnessed religion manipulate people into committing heinous crimes against other human beings in the name of their god.

     Because 2,977 lives were stolen away by unspeakable acts of violence committed in the name of a deity. 2,977 families were ripped apart by senseless tragedy. Loved ones were lost. Children became orphans. Parents lost their children. Families were broken. 

     Our nation was broken by unfathomable and unimaginable acts of religious-fueled hatred and violence.

     Because as of September 11th, 2001 at 10:28am, there are two towers that no longer stand proudly among the New York City skyline.

     Why can I not respect religious beliefs? September 11, 2001.

-Stef (That Stephans Chick)