For years, the word “atheist” has come with a stigma.
But AHA, the University’s Atheist, Humanist and Agnostic Club, hopes to change the face of atheism on campus and in the community.
The organization caters to non-religious or questioning students. AHA members consider the group a “hodgepodge” of secular people. It offers a safe place for individuals with questions, concerns or the simple desire to talk.
AHA hosted a spirituality talk with Gary Pettigrew, philosophy and religious studies professor, on Tuesday evening in Lockett Hall.
AHA adviser Jeremy Fontenot said the discussion focused on what spirituality means without a god.
Conde said many young people have the idea of being spiritual but not religious.
Pettigrew provided his secular perspective when he said spirituality does not have to contradict science. He said one can understand self and morality without a deity.
“There is no way to arrive to a precise word to describe this idea of spirituality without a god,” Pettigrew said. “You must create your own personal experience or mentality.”
She said most atheists have to hide their beliefs in order to avoid prejudice from others.
“From personal experience with teaching, I know the line can be crossed daily between the separation of church and state,” Conde said. “I have to keep my opinions to myself in fear of being ostracized from