In July 2013, the National Atheist Party (NAP) made headlines with a landmark decision: 77.6% of its members voted to rebrand as the Secular Party of America (SPA)5. This shift, requiring a 75% “super majority,” marked a strategic pivot toward inclusivity and broader political influence. But what drove this change, and what does it mean for the future of secular activism in the U.S.?
Why the Name Change?
Founded in 2011 as the Freethought Party, the group initially rebranded to the National Atheist Party to reflect its core identity. However, debates over inclusivity persisted. Executive Board member Bernard “Flash” Kellish explained:
“The new name opens the door to Americans who share our vision of church-state separation but may hesitate due to the word ‘atheist’.
The decision aligns with global trends. Dr. John Perkins, President of Australia’s Secular Party, noted:
“Secularism unites; atheism can divide. This change reflects a political agenda, not just a lack of belief.
Key Milestones in the NAP’s Evolution 5
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2011 | Founded as the Freethought Party; renamed National Atheist Party. |
| March 2013 | First failed vote to adopt “American Secular Party” (missed 75% threshold). |
| July 2013 | Successful rebranding to Secular Party of America with 77.6% approval. |
Challenges and Criticisms
The move wasn’t without controversy. Some members argued that erasing “atheist” diluted their identity. However, leaders emphasized three strategic goals:
- Expanding Reach: Attract secular humanists, agnostics, and non-religious allies.
- Combating Stigma: Counter stereotypes of atheists as “militant” or anti-religious.
- Aligning with Global Movements: Partner with groups like Secular Scotland and Secular Coalition for America.
Atheism in the Legal Arena: A Broader Context
The rebranding parallels legal battles over secularism. For example:
- In 2014, atheist Barry Hazle Jr. won a $2M settlement after challenging a faith-based parole program1.
- Italian atheist groups have contested state favoritism toward Catholicism2.
These cases highlight the growing demand for secular policies—a demand the SPA aims to institutionalize.