Isn't it true that there are no atheists in foxholes?
Check out our Atheists in Foxholes
The old cliché that there are no atheists in foxholes is most certainly not true. Many M*A*A*F members are decorated combat veterans while many more serve throughout the world as submariners, infantry officers, and in a myriad of other dangerous assignments. Some of our members have published their military profiles here. While we are not aware of any comprehensive Department of Defense survey on religious affiliation of service members, it is estimated that at least 1 out of 10 Americans considers their outlook to be secular in nature. As a matter of fact, a recent demographic survey of Air Force enlisted and officer personnel revealed that 1 out of 4 people claimed to have no religious preference. Given the stigma still felt by many atheists in the military, it is certain that many atheists serve in silence in America's military.
How should service members speak in public?
Service members should at a minimum contact their local commanders and public affairs personnel for official advice. Service members should also look around and avoid imitating the types of public speaking activities they disagree with. Also consider the following types of speaking. Speaking in uniform is diferent than out of uniform. Speaking topics could include personal military experiences, comments on religious feelings, complaining about military decisions, etc. Speakers could be active duty, deployed, reservists, veterans, retired, etc. Military status, speaking topic, and dress code are all significant.
Does the First Amendment apply to atheists?
There is no doubt that Christianity has played a significant role in the shaping and history of America. Volumes have been written on the founding father's intent regarding freedom of religion and the separation of church and state. While these debates are an important tool to understanding the history of civil liberties, America was founded on the basis of pluralism and the common good. Today, we are a diverse nation cobbled together from different backgrounds and upbringings. We believe that there is a place for everyone in America and support both religious freedom and separation of church and state. We stand behind our nation's original motto "E Pluribus Unum" -- out of many, one. The Constitution and legal precedent protect the rights of all Americans, atheist or not.
Do I have to say "So Help Me God" during my enlistment oath?
No. It's a common question, although between the officer giving the oath, the reenlistment NCO, and the EO Rep, someone will recognize that it's illegal and unethical to force someone to swear to god if they don't want to. If necessary, point them at AR 601-280 "The Army Retention Program," Appendix D Paragraph 2k, which states specifically that the reenlisting soldier need not swear to god. Or to USC 512 Title 28 (Revision June 25, 1948 ch. 646, 62 Stat. 925) which clarifies that an oath of affirmation excludes the 'so help me god' portion. Air Force should refer to AFI 36-2606 (Ch.3, 2. "Detailed Instructions for Completing the DD Forms 4/1 and 4/2", Table 3.9, Item Number 15 - Confirmation of (Re)enlistment Oath).
Can I, as a service member, be ordered to pray?
First, just to be clear, praying is impossible without belief. Also, one might consider praying without belief to be a kind of mockery. However, there are cases where senior personnel attempt to push their personal beliefs on subordinates. Remember that prayer rituals are not consistent between different religious traditions. These requests are likely to offend not only nonreligious persons, but believers with different religious backgrounds than the prospective leader of the prayer. If someone asks why your head isn't bowed (or whatever), just tell them that you personally disagree and that you're not comfortable participating. Also note that you have been forced into an uncomfortable position by having to choose between betraying your beliefs (by bowing your head) and identifying yourself as someone who is 'different' (by not bowing). Consider addressing these events, either before or after the fact, to leaders, EO Representatives, and chaplains as indicated below.
What's the point of an organization like M*A*A*F?
M*A*A*F is many different things for many different people. Information about who we are and our policies can be found on this website. Our activities can be generally broken down into two categories: community-building and atheism. For many atheists and freethinkers in the military it is important to know that they are not alone. Our mailing list provides a great place to exchange ideas or just to make friends. In our official capacity, M*A*A*F tries to provide a grassroots approach to empowering atheists within the military and combating stereotypes about military. In addition, we are dedicated to building relationships with like-minded organizations that champion the rights of atheists and are dedicated to the constitutional separation of church and state.
What can I do if I am being harassed?
Legal Counsel
There is no substitute for professional legal advice. The mailing list or advice of other M*A*A*F members is not legally sufficient. If you feel that you are being illegally discriminated against, it is important that you understand your rights. You have a right to legal counsel. If you feel that you may be in a situation where you may get in trouble, it is imperative that you consult a lawyer. A free consultation with a military lawyer is your right as a service member. If you do not qualify for free military legal representation or feel uncomfortable with the military legal system you may contact us for help finding legal counsel.
Communication is the Key
Most problematic situations can be resolved with communication. Many people may unintentionally make insensitive remarks or promote an activity you find offensive. Some military folks are not accustomed to thinking that there may be atheists, humanists, or other ideological minorities in their midst. It is critical to be rational, to try to find common ground, and not to make rash remarks. If communication is not possible with the person or persons with whom you are having a problem, other solutions exist.
Equal Opportunity
As an atheist you are protected by Equal Opportunity regulations. Department of Defense directive 1350.2 states "Persons shall be evaluated on individual merit, fitness, and capability, regardless of race, sex, color, national origin, or religion". All Department of Defense organizations are required to have an equal opportunity representative. However, do not be surprised if your representative has never thought about the rights of atheists before. These individuals are required to treat you fairly and should help you find a solution or lodge a formal complaint. If your equal opportunity representative is unable or unwilling to help you, you should still be able to contact an another representative from your unit's higher headquarters.
The Inspector General and Article 138
If you find that you cannot work your issue through communication or through equal opportunity channels, you are still entitled to a couple of methods of redress. The first course of action is to file a complaint through the Inspector General (IG). The IG has the responsibility of investigating complaints and enforcing regulations. The IG may or may not be a lawyer and your mileage may vary. Just like the equal opportunity channels, it is possible to keep submitting your complaint to higher levels up to the applicable department's headquarters. Finally, you can file an Article 138 complaint against your commander. Article 138 complaint procedures vary from service to service so it is important that you read the applicable regulations or seek legal counsel. Remember, all these processes can take a lot of time and can monopolize a lot of your commander's time. For these reasons, it is important that you try to resolve the issue through communication and at the lowest level possible. You have the right to stand up for what you believe in and we stand ready to support atheists and freethinkers experiencing discrimination.
Going Outside the Military
If you find that you cannot resolve your issues within the military, you still have several options. Organizations such as M*A*A*F and our affiliates are always ready to fight for your rights. In addition, you may find that working through the local media, writing editorials, and raising awareness about your plight may be effective. Servicemembers still retain the right to publish newsletters, articles, and engage in public speaking. You may want to familiarize yourself with the applicable regulations. Another approach which can be effective is to contact your representatives in Congress. Filing a congressional complaint is easy. The best way is usually to present your case by writing a letter (or by showing up at their door). Most legislators can be reached by email, phone, or fax. Filing a ",congressional", should be the last step as it can be very time consuming for your command and your legislator. If you're a civilian, GO FOR IT!
Where can I find some additional State-Church Separation Information
The following references are recommended by the American Atheists Legal Staff. These references are not considered comprehensive, not controlled by MAAF, and not necessarily representative of MAAF policy.