Mike Smith
is a fundamentalist Christian-turned-atheist. Growing up in rural Oklahoma and West Texas, he participated in faith-healing ceremonies,
witnessed exorcisms, and spoke glossolalia. His de-conversion took many years, and was the result of a long and arduous search for the Truth.
This search naturally uncovered scientific explanations that conflicted with the dogmatic teachings of his youth - explanations that were simpler and
more elegant than attributing the unknown to supernatural powers. He came to realize that the absolute Truth he had been led to believe in does not
exist, and now finds more satisfaction in natural explanations for the world around us.
As an avowed skeptic, Mike is a proponent of critical thinking in all decision- and policy-making.
As an activist, Mike is a member and supporter of several COCORE groups, as well as groups that defend civil liberties or provide services to
constituents who are oppressed by the forces of religion. A tireless advocate for religious freedom, he understands that the right to deny God's
existence goes hand-in-hand with the right to worship Jesus or other deities, and as such, he is a staunch advocate of the constitutional
principle of separation of church and state.
Mike has appeared on television interviews, radio talk shows, and in newspaper articles with respect to atheism and the protection of civil liberties
in regards to religion or the lack thereof.
Mike is available for media interviews or public speaking, and may be contacted by email.