[Rinnwald]

What was the author saying when she put this in the story?

She was indicating that Atticus was a real man and not a poofter. It was meant to innoculate the character's views on equality from being degenerate, or viewed as an aberration.

TKaM was some mighty fine liberal propaganda. Not that the races shouldn't be treated equally and with dignity, but as a libel against southern culture. All of the institutions, save for the lone hero, were evil, turning everything upside down. The only other white male that did right was the weirdo and recluse Boo Radley.

[Albion Wilde]

The brilliant Robert Duvall's first film role. Fell in love with him then, and he has never disappointed me since, including his politics.

[goodwithagun]

Judge Taylor, Sheriff Tate, Mr. Underwood, and several other white males wanted Tom Robinson moved for fear of lynching before his trial. While they did not take a public stand like Atticus, they knew that what was happening was wrong. Unfortunately by the time the case was tried, they could only stand back and watch the process. Because of Atticus and Scout, Mr. Walter Cunningham also did the right thing. Link Deas made his feelings public as well. White males, all.

Also, Lee makes a point to include Lula in the black church. She is subtly pointing out that racism is a two way street. And let's not forget Aunt Alexandra's missionary tea party where the women were the bigots.

Finally, if you notice the only characters (except Scout in the beginning) that use the “n word” are the most ignorant characters in the book. Lee is making a point about ignorance, not about geographical location.