The 96th Annual AEU Assembly

Columbus Airport Marriott, Columbus, Ohio

June 16-19, 2011

Ethics and being ethical is about making choices. Sometimes difficult choices. So when we come together with others in Ethical Culture, we get to share our ideas, our ethical successes, and learn new possibilities for making good, ethical choices. So imagine how wonderful it is meeting with people from Ethical Societies across the country. We get to learn from each other, support each other, AND HAVE FUN!

The theme for this year's American Ethical Union Assembly is "Choices That Matter."

Our annual traditions at the AEU Assembly will be observed when we acknowledge those who act to promote the practice of right living, at risk to themselves, with our presentation of the 2011 Elliott-Black Award. Also, we will continue the best practice of acknowledging those volunteers who support and foster our Ethical Societies by our presentation of the annual Anna Garlin Spencer Award.

On Saturday morning we look forward to Leader Bart Worden's inspiring Platform titled "Our Choices, Ourselves." Luncheons include stimulating speakers, and evenings will showcase musical performances by our own talented fellow members. And don't miss Friday night's challenging game of Ethical Trivia!

In addition to our annual traditions, we are excited by the wide-ranging workshops offered at this year's Assembly. We will focus on ways to make better choices in our Ethical Societies, Fellowships and Circles, as well as in our families, our workplaces and even in the larger society. 

Local Ethical Action Project Opportunities - There will be several opportunities on Friday afternoon and evening to participate in a local Ethical Action Project in the Columbus community. In honor of Ethical Culture's commitment to deed, this will be the third year in a row that Assembly attendees can engage in Ethical Action with Leaders and Ethical Culturists from around the country. Echoing the Assembly theme, "Choices That Matter," we are arranging some easy ways to make a small difference to worthy social justice organizations in the Columbus area.

Given the devastating economic realities facing so many Americans, what better time to attend, make a difference, learn a bit about a social service organization, and have fun with other Ethical Culturists. We are looking forward to being with you "in deed" in Columbus! 

To see a complete list of our Friday Ethical Action Project Opportunities in Columbus and how to sign up, please see the Assembly registration information below.

The Assembly is also where we conduct our annual exercise of the AEU's representative democracy, as delegates vote for the AEU Board and the annual budget. We need to use our wise thinking together to make the best possible decisions. 

The Assembly is our legislative, budgetary and policymaking authority, composed of delegates from our member Societies, our Leaders, our AEU Board members and our AEU past Presidents. The agenda of the business meetings will be sent out 30 days before the Assembly to each member organization.

As always, Assembly needs you -- your attendance, your participation and your assistance! We will provide incentives for volunteers to help with registration and audio-visual equipment, so let us know if you are interested. Mark the dates, make your plans and look for the brochure online and at your Society. 

The Assembly is a forum to promote growth and change, where members come together to formulate and implement ideas, policies and plans for all our Societies and the AEU. As we work together, we build fellowship and find new companions among Ethical Culturists and Ethical Humanists. 

Accommodation

The Columbus Airport Marriott is offering a special room rate of $99 (before tax) per night per room (not per person).  This discounted room rate is available from June 14th – 20th, which is an additional two nights before and one night after the Assembly for registrations made by May 15.

The hotel offers a free shuttle bus to and from Port Columbus International Airport. You could visit the sights in and around Columbus, with many accessible by Columbus' commuter bus system.  

Registration

We lessen our carbon footprint on the world by using our Assembly's registration website, where you will be able to read about the workshops, presenters and activities offered this year. Simply Press www.regonline.com/aeu and all the information you will need is at your fingertips. When you are ready, just click "Register Now." It's that easy, so be sure to sign up!

The brochure and registration form are also available on the AEU website, www.aeu.org.

Please make a choice that matters and attend this year's American Ethical Union Assembly. We hope to see you!