Hello!! I am the person who initially wrote out that message to srccs, and I'd like to personally apologize to you. I never, EVER meant o come off racist or ignorant. And I *whole-heartedly agree* with what you're saying!! I think maybe I misworded my response? I was trying to *privately* discuss how one could be a part of a religious culture without believing in said religions inherent bigotry. I am young and ignorant and willing to learn about this subject as an ex-christian pagan!
I certainly appreciate the sentiment; but I’m saying that bigotry isn’t inherent in any religion any more than it is inherent in any culture or ethnicity. The cultural narrative that sets up certain ideologies as more civilized (in this case we’re going with antitheism) further rationalizes cultural imperialism. I’m saying that mainstream understanding of religion, culture, history, and how these concepts interact is informed by one particular set of definitions that have and are imposed on everyone else.
So I’m not advocating that one “be a part of a religious culture without believing in said religions inherent bigotry” because I’m saying that there is no bigotry is not inherent in religion any more than it is inherent to any secular belief. I’m saying that by telling others what their religions and cultures mean you’re perpetrating a deeply condescending and controlling attitude.
I’d advise you to follow your beliefs (or lack thereof) and refrain from expounding upon religions and cultures of which you are not a part.
