(Pocopson, Pennsylvania) July 27, 2007--Over five billion of the world's population claim some religious affiliation. While these spiritual beliefs provide a compassionate moral framework for some, they provide the justification for persecution and discord for others. In a recent study conducted by the University of Minnesota, it is those who disassociate themselves completely from religious teachings that are most feared.

"Crystal Clear Atheism", a convention co-sponsored by the Atheist Alliance International (AAI) and the Washington Area Secular Humanists (WASH) will bring together scientists, authors, philosophers, professors, and public policy advocates to try to reverse this stigma and better illuminate the life stance of nontheists. Beginning with the opening reception on Friday, September 28, 2007, at 5:00 PM, the AAI Convention will address issues that are not only unique to the atheist community but are also important topics currently affecting the international landscape of society and politics.

Margaret Downey, President of AAI, will open the meeting with a focus on defining the many facets of atheism and solidifying AAI's commitment to support this dynamic and freethinking community. "Atheist Alliance International has gathered together speakers who are not only extraordinary in their respective fields, but who exemplify the atheist life stance," said Downey. "It is my hope that this convention will serve as an intellectual beacon to others who desire to live their lives free from religious intrusion."

Popular authors Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris, Richard Dawkins, and Daniel Dennett are the distinguished presenters slated to address subjects such as the importance of maintaining the separation of church and state, support for scientific research, secular parenting, and methods that can combat negative stereotyping of those who live a principled nontheist life stance. Also in attendance will be Matthew Chapman, the great-great grandson of Charles Darwin. Monologist and comedian Julia Sweeney will be participating in the Saturday morning panel discussion about secular parenting.

The 2007 convention will mark the first time that over a dozen secular organizations are converging to work together in order to tackle the political and social issues affecting the nontheist community at large and will be broadcast live via the Internet in order to reach a world-wide audience. "This convention marks the beginning of cooperation instead of competition--unity instead of separatism," Downey concluded.

For more information contact:
Margaret Downey
Atheist Alliance International President
P. O. Box 242, Pocopson, Pennsylvania 19366
Phone: (610) 793-2737 • Fax: (610) 793-2569 • Email:

ATHEIST ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL
The Democratic Alliance of Autonomous Atheistic Societies
Website: www.atheistalliance.org

Atheist Alliance International (AAI), founded in 1991, is an umbrella organization for local, autonomous, religion-free groups as well as individual members.

It has 54 member societies in the United States and 10 in other countries. AAI is the only fully democratic atheist organization in the United States.

Its purposes are to help establish and strengthen the religion-free community at the grassroots level and to achieve visibility and acceptance for atheists as respected contributors to discussions of public policy.