AAI's International Presence
Attending AAI's board meeting were representatives from two foreign nations, Canada and
France. The Canadian representative was Robert Buckman and Christian Eyschen represented
France's La Libre Pensée.. Eyschen speaks only French, so Philippe Besson acted as the
representative.
Philippe Besson spoke passionately of the importance of separation of state and church.
He told us of the history of state-church separation in France, telling us that France
followed America's lead, and definitively separated them early in the 20th century.
Though we were all quite charmed by M. Besson, the truly exciting moment came near the
end of the meeting. Christian Eyschen spoke, with Claude Singer and Philippe Besson
interpreting, asking AAI to take part in the leadership of an international effort.
They have drafted a proposed manifesto, which they passed out to the board. The
proposal of La Libre Pensée is to form a coalition of two French freethought organizations,
La Libre Pensée and the Union des Athées, and one or two American groups to finalize the
manifesto, and then to spearhead the organization of national freethought groups
throughout the world. The two French groups are already on board. American Atheists
(AA) initially refused to take part [something that utterly astounds the SpiderWoman]. However,
the French group wishes to reapproach them. A great deal of discussion ensued on the board.
A motion was made suggesting that the proposal be accepted, but that a time limit of
two months be placed on AA's determining whether to take part, so that if they choose
not to, the two French groups and AAI would forge ahead. Ultimately, the board decided
to take part, with the suggested provision.
So, the Atheist Alliance International is truly living up to its new name!
Conclusion
This only hits on some highlights of the board meeting. It was truly exciting,
sometimes fractious, always intriguing, and a fabulous example of how a democratic
organization can accomplish wonders. All of the member societies are fortunate for being a
part of such a dynamic organization.
