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David Silverman

2020-09-16T07:16:11Z

Anderson53:

[[File:David Silverman.JPG|thumbnail|right|150px|David Silverman took feminist [[Rebecca Watson]] off the speakers list for the [[Reason Rally]] after [[Richard Dawkins]] objected to her speaking at the event.<ref>[http://skepchick.org/2013/09/my-time-with-richard-dawkins-or-why-you-should-never-meet-your-idols/ My Time With Richard Dawkins (Or, Why You Should Never Meet Your Idols)] by Sarah at [[Skepchick]], September 5, 2013</ref> See: [[Elevatorgate]] ]]
'''David Silverman''' served as the President of the [[American Atheists]] organization.<ref>http://www.atheists.org/about/Board_of_Directors</ref> After leaving two [[atheist organizations]] amid sexual harassment allegations, Silverman now calls himself a former [[atheist activist]] (see: [[David Silverman's loss of public influence]]).<ref>[https://examiningatheism.blogspot.com/2020/01/david-silverman-ex-president-of.html David Silverman, ex-president of the American Atheists, after leaving two atheist organizations amid sexual harassment allegations, calls himself a former atheist activist]</ref> See: [[Firing of David Silverman from the American Atheists organization]].

David Silverman is currently a full-time consultant for the Conru Foundation.<ref>[https://www.patheos.com/blogs/accordingtomatthew/2019/12/david-silverman-is-hired-by-nonprofit-organization-after-leaving-atheist-alliance-international/ David Silverman Is Hired By Nonprofit Organization After Leaving Atheist Alliance International]</ref> According to their mission statement, “The Conru Foundation supports the protection of modern life – free speech, civil discourse, ecological sustainability, compassionate capitalism, elevation of the arts, evidence-based reasoning, and equal treatment for all.” Recently, the Conru Foundation made a supportive post on their Facebook page for [[Dave Rubin]] and [[Ben Shapiro]].<ref>[https://www.patheos.com/blogs/accordingtomatthew/2019/12/david-silverman-is-hired-by-nonprofit-organization-after-leaving-atheist-alliance-international/ David Silverman Is Hired By Nonprofit Organization After Leaving Atheist Alliance International]</ref>

The atheist PZ Myers wrote about David Sliverman being hired by the Conru foundation which was founded by Andrew Conru (who founded the company Adult Friend Finder): "David Silverman has finally found a sponsor who won’t fire him for being an abusive horndog. He’s being paid by a porn impresario!"<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/12/28/lands-on-his-feet-like-a-cat/ Lands on his feet, like a cat] by PZ Myers</ref>

In 2018, Silverman was fired from the American Atheists organization after allegations of financial conflicts and sexual assault.<ref>[https://www.buzzfeed.com/peteraldhous/david-silverman-atheist-fired-sexual-misconduct?utm_term=.yt64RqDPA#.ordaNrO4R This Firebrand Atheist Was Just Fired After Allegations Of Financial Conflicts And Sexual Assault]</ref> Nick Fish, the new president of American Atheists, indicated that Silverman's termination was not over sexual allegations, but as a result of a "loss of confidence" stemming from violations of internal policies on staff management, conflicts of interest, and their general code of conduct.<ref>[https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/09/06/americas-leading-atheist-accused-of-sexual-misconduct-speaks-out/ Leading atheist, accused of sexual misconduct, speaks out], ''Washington Post'' (republished article from ''[[Religion News Service]]'') by Kimberly Winston, September 6, 2018</ref> Silverman, through his lawyer, denies any wrongdoing and indicates he has never had a non-consensual sexual encounter.<ref>[https://www.christianpost.com/news/american-atheists-president-david-silverman-fired-after-sexual-misconduct-allegations-223034/ American Atheists President David Silverman Fired After Sexual Misconduct Allegations], Christian Post, 2018</ref> In 2019, atheists [[PZ Myers]] and Stephanie Zvan indicate that Silverman's attempts to improve his public image have failed.<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/08/15/david-silverman-is-failing-redemption-101/ David Silverman is failing Redemption 101] by PZ Myers</ref><ref>[https://the-orbit.net/almostdiamonds/2019/08/15/david-silverman-liar-for-the-defense/ David Silverman: Liar for the Defense] by</ref> In his book, ''Fighting God'', Silverman indicates that he is a “proud [[feminism|feminist]].” (See also: [[Atheism and sexism]] and [[Atheism and the Me Too Movement]]).<ref>[https://shadowtolight.wordpress.com/2018/04/14/david-silverman-was-a-proud-feminist/ David Silverman was a “Proud Feminist”], PZ Myers</ref> See also: [[Firing of David Silverman from the American Atheists organization]]

Silverman claimed that he had an open relationship with his Jewish and [[theism|theist]] wife, but later admitted he lied about that his matter and cheated on her.<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/10/15/just-wives/ Just wives] by PZ Myers</ref> See also: [[Prominent atheists and adultery]]

On October 2, 2019, Silverman indicated the experience of being accused of sexual harassment, being fired from the American Atheist organization and losing many of his former atheist friends caused him a "horrific level of pain" that "damaged" him and that he now has textbook symptoms of [[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder]].<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCNXsS79iKs Our Disharmony w/ David Silverman & the "Atheist Movement"]</ref> In addition, he had suicidal thoughts.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCNXsS79iKs Our Disharmony w/ David Silverman & the "Atheist Movement"]</ref> Furthermore, he said he now takes medication, and he is still a damaged person.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCNXsS79iKs Our Disharmony w/ David Silverman & the "Atheist Movement"]</ref> See also: [[Atheism and mental toughness]]

Silverman has filed a defamation lawsuit against the women who accused him of sexual harassment, BuzzFeed who reported the news story, and the American Atheists organization.<ref>[https://friendlyatheist.patheos.com/2019/10/11/despite-misconduct-allegations-david-silverman-is-now-running-an-atheist-group/ Despite Misconduct Allegations, David Silverman Is Now Running an Atheist Group] BY HEMANT MEHTA</ref> On December 9, 2019, David Silverman's attorney withdrew from being his lawyer in his suit against American Atheists and Silverman will be acting as his own attorney.<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/12/10/yikes-silverman-is-slapping-some-more/ Yikes, Silverman is SLAPPing some more] by PZ Myers</ref> See also: [[Atheist lawsuits]]

Silverman now considers himself an ex-[[progressivism|progressive]] who is now a second-wave feminist and not a third-wave feminist.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCNXsS79iKs Our Disharmony w/ David Silverman & the "Atheist Movement"]</ref> Silverman recently appeared on the YouTube channel of [[Carl Benjamin]], an atheist who is ant-feminist. PZ Myers indicated the video declared that "After falling victim to the #[[Me Too Movement|MeToo movement]], ex-leader of American Atheists David Silverman had his life totally destroyed by false allegations made by feminists in the atheist movement."<ref>[https://shadowtolight.wordpress.com/2018/04/14/david-silverman-was-a-proud-feminist/ David Silverman was a “Proud Feminist”], PZ Myers</ref> Silverman's worldview is atheistic and center-left politically. Recently, atheistic, center-left/liberal YouTube videos are seeing significantly less viewership (See: [[YouTube videos with an atheistic, classical liberalism, political viewpoint see a decline from 2017 to present]]).

Concerning Silverman's scandals and subsequent firing, atheist and feminist [[PZ Myers]] said, "It's a terrible day for [[Atheist movement|organized atheism]]."<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2018/04/13/david-silverman-fired-from-american-atheists/ David Silverman fired from American Atheists] by PZ Myers</ref> Myers spent $1200 for a lifetime membership with American Atheists because he was impressed by the way Silverman went after the “anti-feminist” atheists.<ref>[https://shadowtolight.wordpress.com/2018/04/14/david-silverman-was-a-proud-feminist/ David Silverman was a “Proud Feminist”]</ref> See also: [[Decline of the atheist movement]]

Silverman identifies as a firebrand atheist and defines [[firebrand atheism]] as vocally "attacking" humans' "silly" religious beliefs without attacking the individuals themselves.<ref>[https://www.thedailybeast.com/the-case-against-in-your-face-atheism The Case Against In-Your-Face Atheism] by Steve Neumann, ''[[The Daily Beast]]'', 4/14/17</ref>

Silverman served as the New Jersey State Director of American Atheists and after four years of service he become National Spokesperson for the American Atheists Organization.
<ref>http://www.mastermediaspeakers.com/davidsilverman/index.html</ref> David Silverman holds degrees in Marketing and Computer Science.<ref>http://www.mastermediaspeakers.com/davidsilverman/index.html</ref>

== Firing of David Silverman from the American Atheists organization ==

*[[Firing of David Silverman from the American Atheists organization]]

=== A Brief Timeline of Events in the David Silverman Firing ===

*[https://the-orbit.net/almostdiamonds/2019/10/15/a-brief-timeline-of-events-in-the-david-silverman-firing/ A Brief Timeline of Events in the David Silverman Firing] by Stephanie Zvan

== David Silverman declares he is a former atheist activist ==

[[File:David Silverman declares he is a former atheist activist 1-21-2020.png|thumbnail|200px|center|As can be seen above, in January of 2020, David Silverman declares he is a former [[atheist activist]] via his Twitter account.]]
{{Clear}}

== Atheist Alliance International's hiring of David Silverman and his subsequent resignation ==

''See also:'' [[Atheist Alliance International's hiring of David Silverman|Atheist Alliance International's hiring of David Silverman and his subsequent resignation]] and [[Rebecca Vitsmun]]

[[File:Sikivu Hutchinson.JPG|thumbnail|150px|left|[[Sikivu Hutchinson]] ]]
In October 2019, he was hired to be the Executive Director of [[Atheist Alliance International]] (AAI)<ref>[https://www.atheistalliance.org/presidents-corner/david-p-silverman-appointed-executive-director/?fbclid=IwAR2F4FI62mvegNVY_eRqfd3jGrZu0D_FYuzqr3QiPnS-RutuBGG1qYhiCw4 David P. Silverman Appointed Executive Director]</ref> In December 2019, the atheist blogger David G. McAfee reported that David Silverman has been suspended by AAI pending an investigation into an alleged inappropriate touching incident which allegedly occurred against the atheist woman [[Rebecca Vitsmun]].<ref>[https://www.patheos.com/blogs/nosacredcows/2019/12/david-silverman-suspended-pending-investigation-into-touching-incident/ David Silverman Suspended Pending Investigation Into Touching Incident]</ref>
Silverman contends that he did not inappropriately touch Rebecca Vitsmun.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI6Xad0rGeo Silverman / Vitsmun Hearing with commentary #Metoo FINALLY Meets Due Process #TakeBackTheLeft]</ref>

Rebecca Vitsmun filed a restraining order against Silverman, but the judge denied her petition because the judge did not see a pattern of sexual harassment against her by Silverman.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI6Xad0rGeo Silverman / Vitsmun Hearing with commentary #Metoo FINALLY Meets Due Process #TakeBackTheLeft]</ref> Rebecca Vitsmun has filed a [[battery]] allegation with the police against atheist David Silverman and indicates he caressed her sacrum without her permission (the [[Sacrum|sacrum]] is a bone at the base of the lower back that is above the tailbone).<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI6Xad0rGeo Silverman / Vitsmun Hearing with commentary #Metoo FINALLY Meets Due Process #TakeBackTheLeft]</ref> On March 4, 2020, Silverman mocked Vitsum's allegation and referred to the whole affair of Vitsum's allegation of him caressing her sacrum without her permission as "#sacrumgate" on Twitter (see: [https://www.conservapedia.com/File:David_Silverman%27s_Twitter_post_on_3-4-2020.png David Silverman's Twitter post on 3-4-2020]).<ref>[https://twitter.com/MrAtheistPants/status/1235307430378168324 Because I have to. #sacrumgate, David Silverman on Twitter, Mar 4, 2020 - Twitter]</ref>

David Silverman resigned his position as Executive Director of Atheist Alliance International in December of 2019.<ref>[https://friendlyatheist.patheos.com/2019/12/20/after-misconduct-allegation-david-silverman-has-left-another-atheist-group/ After Misconduct Allegation, David Silverman Has Left Another Atheist Group] by BY [[Hemant Mehta]]</ref><ref>[https://www.patheos.com/blogs/nosacredcows/2019/12/david-silverman-leaves-yet-another-atheist-group-after-misconduct-investigation/ David Silverman Leaves Yet Another Atheist Group After Misconduct Investigation] by DAVID G. MCAFEE</ref><ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/12/20/david-silverman-is-out-again/ David Silverman is out, again] by PZ Myers</ref>

The atheist [[David Smalley]] did an interview with Rebecca Vitsum and she gave her account of David Silverman touching her sacrum without her permission, her thoughts about the matter and her court hearing endeavoring to get a restraining order against David Silverman (see: [https://www.spreaker.com/user/smalleyandhyso/447-vitsmun Rebecca Vitsmun Responds]).<ref>[https://www.spreaker.com/user/smalleyandhyso/447-vitsmun Rebecca Vitsmun Responds]</ref> The judge rejected her petition because the judge did not see a pattern of sexual harassment against her by Silverman.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI6Xad0rGeo Silverman / Vitsmun Hearing with commentary #Metoo FINALLY Meets Due Process #TakeBackTheLeft]</ref>

The atheist [[Sikivu Hutchinson]] wrote about the hiring of David Silverman the organization Atheist Alliance International:
{{Cquote|The recent decision by Atheist Alliance International (AAI) to hire the former leader of American Atheists, David Silverman, to its executive director position is yet another indication that this business-as-usual rehab strategy also applies to movement atheism, which can be just as corrupt, cronyistic, and swaggeringly hostile to women as corporate America.<ref>[https://rewire.news/religion-dispatches/2019/10/14/hiring-of-accused-atheist-leader-is-reminder-that-metoo-is-still-needed-in-organized-atheism/ Hiring of Accused Atheist Leader Is Reminder That #MeToo Is Still Needed in Organized Atheism] by Sikivu Hutchinson, Rewire News</ref>}}

There were [[Atheist feminism|atheist feminists]]/[[SJW atheists|progressive atheists]] attempting to get Atheist Alliance International to fire Silverman.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjrvE1q7uD8 David Silverman (Former President of American Atheist) talks to us about allegations against him.]</ref> David Silverman indicated that [[Secular Woman]] and its president [[Monette Richards]] were trying to get the United Nations to revoke AAI's special consultative status with the UN in order to punish AAI for hiring Silverman.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjrvE1q7uD8 David Silverman (Former President of American Atheist) talks to us about allegations against him.], Silverman starts mentioning this matter at the 51:29 point of the video</ref>

== David Silverman indicates progressivism is infecting the American Humanism Association ==

In 2019, David Silverman said "wokeness" ([[progressivism]]) is "infecting" the [[American Humanist Association]].<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCNXsS79iKs Our Disharmony w/ David Silverman & the "Atheist Movement"]</ref>

== David Siverman's personal life ==

''See also:'' [[Prominent atheists whose wives believe in the existence of God]] and [[Prominent atheists and adultery]]

According to Silverman, he became an [[atheism|atheist]] at the age of six.<ref>http://www.mastermediaspeakers.com/davidsilverman/index.html</ref> According to the MasterMedia Speakers Bureau website, Silverman is married to a religious Jewish woman and he has a daughter".<ref>http://www.mastermediaspeakers.com/davidsilverman/index.html</ref> David Silverman claimed that he had an open relationship with his Jewish and [[theism|theist]] wife, but later admitted he lied about this matter and cheated on her.<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/10/15/just-wives/ Just wives] by PZ Myers</ref>

In an interview, Silverman told atheist [[David Smalley]] that he suffers from [[depression]] and that he doubts his self-worth.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Q-YBD8dl_E David Smalley On Social Justice In Atheism], go to the 1 hour 1 minutes and 18 second mark of the video</ref>

After Silverman was terminated from his job at American Atheists, ''The Washington Post'' declared concerning Silverman, "Since then, he has lost his job, longtime friends, sleep and weight."<ref>[https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/09/06/americas-leading-atheist-accused-of-sexual-misconduct-speaks-out/?utm_term=.69a8aea638b6&noredirect=on America’s leading atheist, accused of sexual misconduct, speaks out], Washington Post by Kimberly Winston, September 6, 2018</ref>

== Reason Rally related incident involving David Silverman and Richard Dawkins ==

''See also:'' [[Reason Rally related incident involving David Silverman and Richard Dawkins]]
and [[Feminist quotes about Richard Dawkins]]

An article by Sarah posted at [[Skepchick]] about a conversation between Richard Dawkins and David Silverman which took place during the planning phase of the [[Reason Rally]]:
{{cquote|Richard was standing behind the podium, and he asked Dave something along the lines of, “What exactly is the Reason Rally?” Dave started explaining it, and as he did, someone who was waiting in the line outside opened the door to peek inside and we could all hear a lot of noise. I rushed up the aisle and made frantic “shut the door” gestures at the people peeking inside, and they did. As I walked the ten feet back, I couldn’t hear everything Dave was saying, but I heard the name “[[Rebecca Watson]].” Richard suddenly had a very angry look on his face and I heard him almost shout, “No, absolutely not! If she’s going to be there, I won’t be there. I don’t want her speaking.” and then Dave immediately replied, “You’re absolutely right, we’ll take her off the roster. It’s done.” Richard huffed for a moment, Dave continued to placate him, and then he made the video.

I was crushed.<ref>[http://skepchick.org/2013/09/my-time-with-richard-dawkins-or-why-you-should-never-meet-your-idols/ My Time With Richard Dawkins (Or, Why You Should Never Meet Your Idols)] by Sarah at [[Skepchick]], September 5, 2013</ref>}}

For more information, please see: [[Elevatorgate]]

== Silverman intentionally exaggerating the number of atheists in the USA ==
[[File:David Silverman Reason Rally.jpg|thumbnail|left|200px|David Silverman ]]
In 2012, the organization PolitiFact Rhode Island accused David Silverman of wildly exaggerating the number of atheists in America by attempting to included the Unaffiliated (also called [[Nones]]) who made up about 15% of the United States population at the time (despite the fact that only 15 percent of "nones" identify as atheists) and by also attempting to lump agnostics with the [[Atheist Population|atheist population]].<ref>[https://www.politifact.com/rhode-island/statements/2012/feb/26/david-silverman/american-atheists-president-david-silverman-says-t/ American Atheists President David Silverman says there are twice as many atheists in U.S. as Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists combined] By C. Eugene Emery Jr. on Sunday, February 26th, 2012 at 12:01 a.m.</ref><ref>[http://www.pressdemocrat.com/csp/mediapool/sites/PressDemocrat/News/story.csp?cid=2501462&sid=555&fid=181 Meet the 'Nones:' Spiritual but not religious]</ref>

According to PolitiFact Rhode Island:
{{cquote|When the American Religious survey asked people what they thought of the existence of God, 2.3 percent said 'There is no such thing.'...When Pew asked a broader question -- "Do you believe in God or a universal spirit?" -- 5 percent said "No."<ref>[https://www.politifact.com/rhode-island/statements/2012/feb/26/david-silverman/american-atheists-president-david-silverman-says-t/ American Atheists President David Silverman says there are twice as many atheists in U.S. as Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists combined] By C. Eugene Emery Jr. on Sunday, February 26th, 2012 at 12:01 a.m.</ref>}}

The 2008 [[American Religious Identification Survey]] (ARIS) found that only 0.7% of U.S. adults identified as atheist, but at the same time 2.3% said there is no such thing as a god.<ref>Barry A. Kosmin and Ariela Keysar, [http://b27.cc.trincoll.edu/weblogs/AmericanReligionSurvey-ARIS/reports/ARIS_Report_2008.pdf], March 2009, American Religious Identification Survey [ARIS 2008], Trinity College</ref> The reluctance of Americans to self-identify as atheists is likely due to the American public's low opinion of atheists (See: [[Views on atheists|Americans have a low opinion of atheists]]).

=== David Silverman deceptiveness about numbers of American atheists and his broken promise to be accurate ===

The atheist Vlad Chituc wrote at the University of Southern California's ''Religious Dispatches'':
{{cquote|This leads Silverman to make some wildly inaccurate claims. He argues that more than half of Jews and three-quarters of the rapidly growing religiously unaffiliated are atheists. But according to Pew, only 17% of Jews and 33% of the “nones” say they don’t believe in God. If you want to count the “don’t knows” or “others,” that gets to about 20% and 40%, respectively, at best.

These are not small discrepancies, and based on these falsely inflated statistics, Silverman makes startlingly inaccurate claims, like that there are 80 million atheists in the U.S., a full 26% of the country....To make things frustratingly worse, other atheists have been calling Silverman out for falsely inflating the number of atheists for [http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2011/08/07/fact-check-please/ more than four years]. And last year, I specifically asked Silverman if he would stop reporting the stats on “nones” as being representative of atheism, and he [https://twitter.com/MrAtheistPants/status/581206498258325504 told me he would]. Yet here we are.<ref>[http://religiondispatches.org/how-not-to-defend-atheism/ How Not To Defend Atheism] by Vlad Chituc, University of Southern California's ''Religious Dispatches'', 2015</ref>}}

Despite the many shortcomings of the book, David Silverman said of his book ''Fighting God'': "...I am very proud of it as you can tell." (See: [[Atheism and arrogance]]).<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8HZ0e9N51Q David Silverman : Fighting God]</ref><ref>[http://religiondispatches.org/how-not-to-defend-atheism/ How Not To Defend Atheism] by Vlad Chituc, University of Southern California's ''Religious Dispatches'', 2015</ref>

For more information, please see: [[American atheism]]

== Controversial Billboard ==

The American Atheists organization sponsored an aggressive and controversial billboard and an interview with [[Fox News]] occurred as a result of the billboard [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XEgkViLbTk VIDEO]. As noted above, Silverman has a degree in [[marketing]], but despite his degree in marketing, according to fellow [[atheist]] and [[evolution]]ist [[PZ Myers]], Silverman was stuck defending a "badly designed, ugly" sign.<ref>http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2011/01/that_controversial_oreilly_int.php</ref>

== David Silverman's 2018 address to the American Atheists convention ==

''See also:'' [[Decline of the atheist movement]] and [[Atheists and the endurance of religion]] and [[Desecularization]] and [[David Silverman's speech at the 2018 American Atheists convention]]

At the 2018 American Atheists convention, David Silverman declared:
{{Cquote|It is a hard time to be [[Atheist activist|an atheist activist]]. This has affected us. And it has affected our community...

...it has really affected us. We are suffering a level of [[defeatism]] that I have never seen before...

We feel the loss. And we feel like we have lost. We feel like [[Donald Trump and American atheists|we lost the election]]... We see this cascade of attack coming down at us over and over from all different directions and we feel like it's over. I have heard so many times it makes me sick. It makes me sad. It feels like we lost.

The [[Atheism and apathy|apathy that follows]]. It doesn't matter. We can't win anyways. It's useless to fight. This apathy is infecting us. It's hurting us.

And people are reacting to each other now. And so that is [[Atheist factions|causing a division]]. Lots and lots of division in our movement. Hard, bad division... And that has resulted in a splintering and factioning of the movement that I have never seen before and none of us have.

In other words, we're in a bad situation and it's getting worse.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8VYLMYvImc David Silverman - How the Mighty Get Back Up]</ref>}}

== Book ==

*''Fighting God: An Atheist Manifesto for a Religious World'', Publisher: Thomas Dunne Books; 1st edition (December 1, 2015)

== See also ==

*[[Evangelical atheism]]
*[[Atheist activist]]
*[[Post sexual harassment allegations against Lawrence Krauss and David Silverman, searches for atheism related topics have dropped markedly]]

== External links ==

*[https://firebrandforgood.com/ Firebrandforgood.com], David Silverman's website
*[https://thehumanist.com/commentary/the-firebrands-new-brand-david-silvermans-return-to-atheist-leadership The Firebrand’s New Brand: David Silverman’s Return to Atheist Leadership], ''American Humanist Association''
*[https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/peteraldhous/david-silverman-atheist-fired-sexual-misconduct This Firebrand Atheist Was Just Fired After Allegations Of Financial Conflicts And Sexual Assault], Buzzfeed
*[https://sojo.net/articles/american-atheists-terminates-its-president-over-sexual-misconduct-allegations American Atheists Terminates Its President Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations] By Kimberly Winston, ''Religion News Service''
*[https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2018/04/17/american-atheists-fires-its-president-over-sexual-misconduct-allegations/ American Atheists fires its president over sexual misconduct allegations], ''Salt Lake Tribune''
*[http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2018/04/16/american-atheists-answers-follow-up-questions-after-the-firing-of-its-president/ American Atheists Answers Follow-Up Questions After the Firing of Its President], ''[[Hemant Mehta|Friendly Atheist]]''
*[http://www.atheistnexus.org/profile/DavidSilverman David Silverman] at Atheist Nexus
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XEgkViLbTk Bill O'Reilly interview with David Silverman] - [[YouTube]] video
*[https://dplore.fandom.com/wiki/Rebecca_Vitsmum Rebecca Vitsmum Drunken Peasants Page] Rebecca Vitsmum

== Notes ==
{{reflist|2}}

[[Category:David Silverman]]
[[Category:Atheists]]

Firing of David Silverman from the American Atheists organization

2020-09-16T07:03:56Z

Anderson53:

[[File:David Silverman.JPG|thumbnail|right|150px|[[David Silverman]] took feminist [[Rebecca Watson]] off the speakers list for the Reason Rally after [[Richard Dawkins]] objected to her speaking at the event.<ref>[http://skepchick.org/2013/09/my-time-with-richard-dawkins-or-why-you-should-never-meet-your-idols/ My Time With Richard Dawkins (Or, Why You Should Never Meet Your Idols)] by Sarah at [[Skepchick]], September 5, 2013</ref> See: [[Elevatorgate]] ]]
In 2018, [[David Silverman]] was fired after allegations of financial conflicts and sexual assault.<ref>[https://www.buzzfeed.com/peteraldhous/david-silverman-atheist-fired-sexual-misconduct?utm_term=.yt64RqDPA#.ordaNrO4R This Firebrand Atheist Was Just Fired After Allegations Of Financial Conflicts And Sexual Assault]</ref> Nick Fish, the new president of [[American Atheists]], indicated that Silverman's termination was not over sexual assualt allegations, but as a result of a "loss of confidence" stemming from violations of internal policies on staff management, conflicts of interest, and their general code of conduct.<ref>[https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/09/06/americas-leading-atheist-accused-of-sexual-misconduct-speaks-out/ Leading atheist, accused of sexual misconduct, speaks out], ''Washington Post'' (republished article from ''[[Religion News Service]]'') by Kimberly Winston, September 6, 2018</ref> Silverman, through his lawyer, denies any wrong doing and indicates he has never had a non-consensual sexual encounter.<ref>[https://www.christianpost.com/news/american-atheists-president-david-silverman-fired-after-sexual-misconduct-allegations-223034/ American Atheists President David Silverman Fired After Sexual Misconduct Allegations], Christian Post, 2018</ref> In 2019, atheists [[PZ Myers]] and Stephanie Zvan indicate that Silverman's attempts to improve his public image have failed.<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/08/15/david-silverman-is-failing-redemption-101/ David Silverman is failing Redemption 101] by PZ Myers</ref><ref>[https://the-orbit.net/almostdiamonds/2019/08/15/david-silverman-liar-for-the-defense/ David Silverman: Liar for the Defense] by </ref> In his book, ''Fighting God'', Silverman indicates that he is a “proud [[feminism|feminist]].” (See also: [[Atheism and sexism]] and [[Atheism and the Me Too Movement]]).<ref>[https://shadowtolight.wordpress.com/2018/04/14/david-silverman-was-a-proud-feminist/ David Silverman was a “Proud Feminist”], PZ Myers</ref>

After leaving two [[atheist organizations]] amid sexual harassment allegations, Silverman now calls himself a former [[atheist activist]].<ref>[https://examiningatheism.blogspot.com/2020/01/david-silverman-ex-president-of.html David Silverman, ex-president of the American Atheists, after leaving two atheist organizations amid sexual harassment allegations, calls himself a former atheist activist]</ref> See: [[David Silverman's loss of public influence]]

In October 2019, he was hired to be the Executive Director of [[Atheist Alliance International]] (AAI)<ref>[https://www.atheistalliance.org/presidents-corner/david-p-silverman-appointed-executive-director/?fbclid=IwAR2F4FI62mvegNVY_eRqfd3jGrZu0D_FYuzqr3QiPnS-RutuBGG1qYhiCw4 David P. Silverman Appointed Executive Director]</ref> In December 2019, the atheist blogger David G. McAfee reported that David Silverman has been suspended by AAI pending an investigation into an alleged inappropriate touching incident which allegedly occurred against the atheist woman [[Rebecca Vitsmun]].<ref>[https://www.patheos.com/blogs/nosacredcows/2019/12/david-silverman-suspended-pending-investigation-into-touching-incident/ David Silverman Suspended Pending Investigation Into Touching Incident]</ref>
Silverman contends that he did not inappropriately touch Rebecca Vitsmun.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI6Xad0rGeo Silverman / Vitsmun Hearing with commentary #Metoo FINALLY Meets Due Process #TakeBackTheLeft]</ref>

Rebecca Vitsmun filed a restraining order against Silverman, but the judge denied her petition because the judge did not see a pattern of sexual harassment against her by Silverman.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI6Xad0rGeo Silverman / Vitsmun Hearing with commentary #Metoo FINALLY Meets Due Process #TakeBackTheLeft]</ref> Rebecca Vitsmun has filed a [[battery]] allegation with the police against atheist David Silverman and indicates he caressed her [[sacrum]] without her permission (the sacrum is a bone at the base of the lower back that is above the tailbone).<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI6Xad0rGeo Silverman / Vitsmun Hearing with commentary #Metoo FINALLY Meets Due Process #TakeBackTheLeft]</ref> On March 4, 2020, Silverman mocked Vitsum's allegation and referred to the whole affair of Vitsum's allegation of him caressing her sacrum without her permission as "#sacrumgate" on Twitter (see: [https://www.conservapedia.com/File:David_Silverman%27s_Twitter_post_on_3-4-2020.png David Silverman's Twitter post on 3-4-2020]).<ref>[https://twitter.com/MrAtheistPants/status/1235307430378168324 Because I have to. #sacrumgate, David Silverman on Twitter, Mar 4, 2020 - Twitter]</ref>

David Silverman resigned his position as Executive Director of Atheist Alliance International in December of 2019.<ref>[https://friendlyatheist.patheos.com/2019/12/20/after-misconduct-allegation-david-silverman-has-left-another-atheist-group/ After Misconduct Allegation, David Silverman Has Left Another Atheist Group] by BY [[Hemant Mehta]]</ref><ref>[https://www.patheos.com/blogs/nosacredcows/2019/12/david-silverman-leaves-yet-another-atheist-group-after-misconduct-investigation/ David Silverman Leaves Yet Another Atheist Group After Misconduct Investigation] by DAVID G. MCAFEE</ref><ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/12/20/david-silverman-is-out-again/ David Silverman is out, again] by PZ Myers</ref> See: [[Atheist Alliance International's hiring of David Silverman]]

The atheist [[David Smalley]] did an interview with Rebecca Vitsum and she gave her account of David Silverman touching her sacrum without her permission, her thoughts about the matter and her court hearing endeavoring to get a restraining order against David Silverman (see: [https://www.spreaker.com/user/smalleyandhyso/447-vitsmun Rebecca Vitsmun Responds]).<ref>[https://www.spreaker.com/user/smalleyandhyso/447-vitsmun Rebecca Vitsmun Responds]</ref> During her interview with David Smalley she claimed that the touching of her sacrum caused her to become involuntarily sexually aroused.<ref>[https://youtu.be/mBwEAAlsz4o David Silverman Accused By Crazy Feminist Of Sexual Assault]</ref> The judge rejected her petition because the judge did not see a pattern of sexual harassment against her by Silverman.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI6Xad0rGeo Silverman / Vitsmun Hearing with commentary #Metoo FINALLY Meets Due Process #TakeBackTheLeft]</ref>

On December 9, 2019, in a video about David Silverman, the [[YouTube atheism|atheist YouTuber]] [[Cult of Dusty]] said the atheist community is "cringe" and he said he doesn't want to have anything to do with it anymore.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2a-hDiOYBg David Silverman Accused Of "Creepy Touching" Again! Plus 50 Other topics! (CODcast 78)]</ref> See also: [[Decline of the atheist movement]]

Silverman claimed that he had an open relationship with his Jewish and [[theism|theist]] wife, but later admitted he lied about this matter and cheated on her.<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/10/15/just-wives/ Just wives] by PZ Myers</ref>

Silverman told atheist [[David Smalley]] in an interview that he suffers from [[depression]] and that he doubts his self-worth.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Q-YBD8dl_E David Smalley On Social Justice In Atheism], go to the 1 hour 1 minutes and 18 second mark of the video]</ref>

On October 2, 2019, Silverman indicated the experience of being accused of sexual harrassment, being fired from the American Atheist organization and losing many of his former atheist friends caused him a "horrific level of pain" that "damaged" him and that he now has textbook symptoms of [[Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder]].<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCNXsS79iKs Our Disharmony w/ David Silverman & the "Atheist Movement"]</ref> In addition, he had suicidal thoughts.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCNXsS79iKs Our Disharmony w/ David Silverman & the "Atheist Movement"]</ref> Furthermore, he said he now takes medication and he is still a damaged person.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCNXsS79iKs Our Disharmony w/ David Silverman & the "Atheist Movement"]</ref>
[[File:David Silverman's Twitter post on 3-4-2020.png|thumbnail|right|200px|[[Rebecca Vitsmun]] has filed a [[battery]] allegation with the police against atheist [[David Silverman]] and indicates he caressed her [[sacrum]] without her permission (the sacrum is the portion of the lower back that is above the tailbone).<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI6Xad0rGeo Silverman / Vitsmun Hearing with commentary #Metoo FINALLY Meets Due Process #TakeBackTheLeft]</ref>
 
 
On March 4, 2020, Silverman mocked Vitsum's allegation and referred to the whole affair of Vitsum's allegation of him caressing her sacrum without her permission as "#sacrumgate" on Twitter (see: [https://www.conservapedia.com/File:David_Silverman%27s_Twitter_post_on_3-4-2020.png David Silverman's Twitter post on 3-4-2020]).<ref>[https://twitter.com/MrAtheistPants/status/1235307430378168324 Because I have to. #sacrumgate, David Silverman on Twitter, Mar 4, 2020 - Twitter]</ref> (Click on screen capture graphic above)]]
Silverman appeared on the YouTube channel of [[Carl Benjamin]], an atheist who is ant-feminist. PZ Myers indicated the video declared that "After falling victim to the #[[Me Too Movement|MeToo movement]], ex-leader of American Atheists David Silverman had his life totally destroyed by false allegations made by feminists in the atheist movement."<ref>[https://shadowtolight.wordpress.com/2018/04/14/david-silverman-was-a-proud-feminist/ David Silverman was a “Proud Feminist”], PZ Myers</ref>

David Silverman now says about his firing from the American Atheists organization:
{{Cquote|On April 10, 2018, I was suspended from American Atheists for very vague reasons and walked out of my office like a criminal. My 22 year career in activism with American Atheists died that day, due to lies. I was given zero due process, and the organization performed zero investigation before firing me, again like a criminal.

Mind you, not everything was a lie, and I was not some innocent flower. I am guilty of saying yes to sexually engaging with a woman after she had asked me for a job in exchange for sex and I had told her no (on the job), and playing with my board member’s wife knowing he had vetoed the interaction. These are immoral acts and I own them. I have learned a lot since these events (through years of cognitive therapy which began in 2015) and would not make these mistakes again.<ref>[https://firebrandforgood.com/metoo/ David Silverman on the Me Too Movement within the atheist movement], David Silverman's website Firebrandforgood.com</ref>}}

== Timeline of Events in the David Silverman Firing ==

*[https://the-orbit.net/almostdiamonds/2019/10/15/a-brief-timeline-of-events-in-the-david-silverman-firing/ A Brief Timeline of Events in the David Silverman Firing] by Stephanie Zvan

== Silverman sues the American Atheists organization for defamation plus files lawsuits against women who accused him of sexual harassment ==

''See also:'' [[Atheist lawsuits]]

Silverman has filed a defamation lawsuit against the women who accused him of sexual misconduct, BuzzFeed who reported the news story, and the American Atheists organization.<ref>[https://friendlyatheist.patheos.com/2019/10/11/despite-misconduct-allegations-david-silverman-is-now-running-an-atheist-group/ Despite Misconduct Allegations, David Silverman Is Now Running an Atheist Group] BY HEMANT MEHTA</ref> On December 9, 2019, David Silverman's attorney withdrew from being his lawyer in his suit against American Atheists and Silverman will be acting as his own attorney.<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/12/10/yikes-silverman-is-slapping-some-more/ Yikes, Silverman is SLAPPing some more] by PZ Myers</ref>
== David Silverman declares he is a former atheist activist ==

''See also:'' [[David Silverman's loss of public influence]]

[[File:David Silverman declares he is a former atheist activist 1-21-2020.png|thumbnail|200px|center|As can be seen above, in January of 2020, David Silverman declares he is a former [[atheist activist]] via his Twitter account.]]
{{Clear}}

== American Atheist replacement of David Silverman. Commentary by atheist Ed Brayton ==

''See also:'' [[Atheism and leadership]] and [[Western atheism and race]]

When David Silverman was replaced by Nick Fish who is also a white male, the atheist [[Ed Brayton]] wrote:
{{Cquote|In the wake of the firing of David Silverman after allegations of sexual and financial misconduct, American Atheists has named Nick Fish, formerly the national program director for the group, as the new president to replace him. I find this news to be quite disappointing and it has nothing to do with Fish personally.

...I’m disappointed that they didn’t take the opportunity to appoint a woman to lead the group. Especially in the wake of Silverman’s actions that led to his downfall, I think that would have sent a very important message. More than that, it would have helped bring a perspective that is far too often ignored, dismissed and even denigrated within the broad atheist community.

We need more women in positions of leadership, and more minorities as well. We need to stop being a community led mostly by old white men like me.<ref>[https://www.patheos.com/blogs/dispatches/2018/09/07/nick-fish-is-new-leader-of-american-atheists/ Nick Fish is New Leader of American Atheists], Ed Brayton, 2018</ref>}}

== Atheist feminists/progressive atheists attempting to get Atheist Alliance International to fire David Silverman ==

''See also:'' [[Atheist Alliance International's hiring of David Silverman]] and [[Atheism and leadership]] and [[Atheism and the Me Too Movement]]

According to David Silverman there were [[Atheist feminism|atheist feminists]]/[[SJW atheists|progressive atheists]] attempting to get [[Atheist Alliance International]] (AAI) to fire David Silverman.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjrvE1q7uD8 David Silverman (Former President of American Atheist) talks to us about allegations against him.]</ref> David Silverman indicated that [[Secular Woman]] and its president Monette Richards was trying to get the United Nations to revoke AAI's special consultative status with the UN in order to punish AAI for hiring Silverman.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjrvE1q7uD8 David Silverman (Former President of American Atheist) talks to us about allegations against him.], Silverman starts mentioning this matter at the 51:29 point of the video</ref>

According to Silverman, the board of directors for AAI reviewed the evidence that Silverman presented maintaining his innocence of the sexual assault allegations that have been lodged against him and unamimously decided to hire him.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjrvE1q7uD8 David Silverman (Former President of American Atheist) talks to us about allegations against him.], Silverman starts mentioning this matter at the 51:29 point of the video</ref>

For further details, please see:

*[[Atheist Alliance International's hiring of David Silverman]]
*[[Prominent atheists and adultery]]

== Atheist PZ Myers on David Silverman's career in light of recent accusations of sexual harassment ==

''See also:'' [[Atheism and leadership]]

[[File:PZ Myers at Skepticon 7.jpg|thumbnail|250px|right|[[PZ Myers]] ]]
In a blog post entitled ''The secular predator problem'', the atheist [[PZ Myers]] wrote on David Silverman's career in light of the recent accusations of sexual harassment against him:
{{Cquote|If I were to give any advice to David, it would be to say that the path to being a good person is often counter to being an influential and powerful person. He wants the latter, but in light of his terrible assumptions and abuses, the only way forward for him is to accept some humility. He’s never going to be the bold, heroic atheist in the eyes of the people again … but then, most of us never were. We cope.<ref>[https://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2019/12/14/the-secular-predator-problem/ ''The secular predator problem''] by atheist PZ Myers</ref>}}

== Post sexual harassment allegations against Lawrence Krauss and David Silverman, searches for atheism related topics have dropped markedly ==

''See also:'' [[Decline of the atheist movement]] and [[Internet atheism]]

=== Atheism and agnosticism related searches in the United States - Google trends ===
[[File:U.S. atheism & agnosticism related searches.jpg|thumbnail|774px|center|[[New Atheism]] is a form of [[militant atheism]].
 
 
[[Lawrence Krauss]] is a new [[atheism|atheist]].
 
 
On March 7, 2018, ''The Australian'' reported that Lawrence Krauss was sent on paid leave by Arizona University in wake of harassment allegations against him and that he is no longer allowed on campus.<ref>[https://www.theaustralian.com.au/higher-education/lawrence-krauss-talks-in-australia-are-on-despite-harassment-claims/news-story/c1f1082f2c16f128c4f000391f889246 Lawrence Krauss sent on paid leave by Arizona University in wake of harassment allegations], ''The Australian'', 2018</ref>
 
 
In April 2018, [[David Silverman]], ex-president of the [[American Atheists]] organization, was fired due to allegations of financial conflicts and sexual assault.<ref>[https://www.buzzfeed.com/peteraldhous/david-silverman-atheist-fired-sexual-misconduct?utm_term=.yt64RqDPA#.ordaNrO4R This Firebrand Atheist Was Just Fired After Allegations Of Financial Conflicts And Sexual Assault]</ref>
 
 
As can be seen on the rightward side of the Google trends graph, post sexual harassment allegations against Lawrence Krauss and David Silverman, searches for atheism related topics have dropped markedly in the United States.
 
 
For more information, please read the article [https://www.mercatornet.com/features/view/a-shambolic-atheist-community-faces-some-tough-choices/21401 ''A shambolic atheist community faces some tough choices''] ]]

=== Atheism and agnosticism related searches in the world - Google trend data ===

[[File:Atheism & agnosticism related searches in world june 2018.jpg|thumbnail|775px|center|As can be seen on the rightward side of the Google trends graph, post sexual harassment allegations against Lawrence Krauss and David Silverman, searches for atheism related topics have dropped markedly around in the world.
 
 
For more information, please read the article [https://www.mercatornet.com/features/view/a-shambolic-atheist-community-faces-some-tough-choices/21401 ''A shambolic atheist community faces some tough choices''] ]]
__TOC__

== David Silverman and sexual abuse allegations ==

*[https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/peteraldhous/david-silverman-atheist-fired-sexual-misconduct This Firebrand Atheist Was Just Fired After Allegations Of Financial Conflicts And Sexual Assault], Buzzfeed
*[https://sojo.net/articles/american-atheists-terminates-its-president-over-sexual-misconduct-allegations American Atheists Terminates Its President Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations] By Kimberly Winston, ''Religion News Service''
*[https://www.sltrib.com/religion/2018/04/17/american-atheists-fires-its-president-over-sexual-misconduct-allegations/ American Atheists fires its president over sexual misconduct allegations], ''Salt Lake Tribune''
*[http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2018/04/16/american-atheists-answers-follow-up-questions-after-the-firing-of-its-president/ American Atheists Answers Follow-Up Questions After the Firing of Its President], ''[[Hemant Mehta|Friendly Atheist]]''
== David McAfee on Rebecca Vitsmun's accusation of David Silverman inappropriately touching her ==

''See also:'' [[Rebecca Vitsmun]]

*[https://www.patheos.com/blogs/nosacredcows/2019/12/david-silverman-accused-of-creepy-touching-after-his-return-to-leadership/ David Silverman Accused of “Creepy-Touching” After His Return to Leadership] by the journalist David G. McAfee

== Atheist Lawrence Krauss and sexual abuse allegations ==

*[https://www.buzzfeed.com/peteraldhous/lawrence-krauss-sexual-harassment-allegations?utm_term=.rlpE3NO1LV#.lmR90vRZqk Lawrence Krauss Faces Allegations Of Sexual Misconduct], ''Buzzfeed'', 2018
*[https://www.buzzfeed.com/peteraldhous/lawrence-krauss-canceled-events?utm_term=.viGorPjpdb#.vlzZzr8X20 Facing Sexual Harassment Allegations, Physicist Lawrence Krauss Will Not Appear At Several Events] - ''Buzzfeed'', 2018
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wr9OIty2XGg When Lawrence Krauss was inappropriate with me], atheist Christina Rad
*[https://gizmodo.com/more-organizations-cut-ties-with-physicist-lawrence-kra-1823577425 More Organizations Cut Ties With Physicist Lawrence Krauss]

== See also ==

*[[Atheism and women]]

*[[Atheist organizations and scandals]]

*[[Atheism and leadership]]

*[[Atheism and sexism]]

*[[Atheism and the Me Too Movement]]

== Notes ==
{{reflist|2}}
[[Category: David Silverman]]
[[Category:Atheism]]