Like other Coalition of Reason groups around the nation, our San Diego group has decided to rent billboard space to get our message to the public. If you're viewing this website to find out why we're doing this, I offer you my opinion. It is only my opinion; the San Diego Coalition of Reason doesn't really have an opinion because it is only a "coalition." It is made up of a large number of groups, each with its own structure, goals, memberships and opinions.
As a coalition, we bring together humanists, atheists, agnostics, non-theists and rational thinkers united in the belief that life's mysteries are best deciphered with reason and rational thought. We don't pretend to have all the answers; we do believe pursuit of the answers is best undertaken through reason, study and deductive thought rather than by resorting to "wild card" solutions of supernatural beings and what to us are illogical explanations.
Despite the claims of some, our billboard is not intended to insult or denigrate anyone, any group, religion or alternate belief systems. Rather it is to let the thousands of others who share our views know that we are here and welcome them to participate in those activities we enjoy whether they be educational, recreational, social or otherwise.
Everywhere we go, we see signs espousing views and belief systems with which we don't agree. We find these "billboards" along the roadsides, on television, radio, knocking on our doors and even on our currency. We don't assume anyone is trying to insult us. We only ask for the same courtesy and respect.
Despite the fact that most churches proselytize and send their missionaries to our doors and public spaces, we aren’t proselytizing; we don't expect to "convert" any believers.
There are many people that are wrestling with their belief systems just as some of us have done at some point in our lives. We want them to know they are not alone and that thousands of others have preceded them in what we view as a personal enlightenment. Non-believers like us lead good lives and contribute our share to society. Our groups include many greats of yesterday, today and undoubtedly, tomorrow.
We believe the capacity to do good things, to serve humanity, to love, to care and to work toward a brighter future doesn't depend upon a belief in a deity or supernatural being. I'm confident our accomplishments prove this to be true.
I believe it was Eleanor Roosevelt who said, "No one can insult you without your permission." In this case, no insults are intended. I only want to say to those with similar beliefs, "Hold your heads high, aim for the stars and know you are not alone."
