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Becoming a Spokesperson for Humanism

21 Apr 2017
Emily
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James Croft, Outreach Leader of Ethical Society of St. Louis

JamesCroftI believe humanism has the potential to change the world. When I was studying for my doctorate and traveling the United States giving presentations on humanism, I wanted to find a way to make humanist leadership into a career. I wanted to create a more reasonable, compassionate, and hopeful society—and so I joined The Humanist Institute to learn the skills needed to become a strong voice in our movement.

The Humanist Institute was an essential part of my preparation to become an Ethical Culture leader. It provided in-depth study of the humanist tradition, including its philosophical and scientific aspects, as well as practical training in critical leadership skills such as speaking with the press and conducting ceremonies. I was continually impressed by the knowledge of the teachers, and their willingness to spend time with Institute participants. The assignments were intellectually stimulating and fun, and challenged me to think about humanism in new ways. I now view humanism as a lifestance that promotes the values of reason, compassion, and hope: the ability of human beings to use our own intellect to make sense of the world; the equal dignity and worth of every person; and the ability of people to improve the world on our own.

Speaker-PodiumWhen I discovered there are humanist congregations that bring people together to deepen their understanding of and commitment to humanism, I knew that’s what I wanted to do with my life. I use the skills and knowledge I gained from The Humanist Institute every day in my work as a leader at the Ethical Society of St. Louis. I provide pastoral care for members, speak on Sundays, organize events for the community, and lead educational workshops and discussion groups. As outreach leader, I represent the Ethical Society and humanism in general when I participate on panels, visit college campuses, and speak at rallies.

My friends and teachers at The Humanist Institute helped me stay hopeful when I thought humanism wasn’t worth the effort. Now as a board member, I inspire students to find which aspects of humanism most interest them. If I can help build a community of love and justice—and help others do the same—I believe the future of humanism is bright.

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TONIGHT at 7pm CT! Join Executive Director Bart Worden for and explanation of Ethical Humanism and how the AEU's member groups are working to foster a world that is democratic, compassionate, just, and sustainable. Join on Zoom here: ow.ly/20DH50ElXb4 ... See MoreSee Less

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Are you interested in making the world a better place for all? Would you like the opportunity to share your ethical aspirations with other people in your community? Join an informational meeting with Bart Worden, Executive Director of the American Ethical Union on Monday, April 12th at 7:00 pm CT. Bart will speak about Ethical Humanism and how the American Ethical Union's member groups are working to foster a world that is democratic, compassionate, just, and sustainable. He will also answer questions about Ethical Societies, the American Ethical Union, and ways people can connect and get involved.Sign up here here and feel free to share with others! forms.gle/YMyAZAshPHc67CbU9 ... See MoreSee Less

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On the second-to-last day of #WomensHistoryMonth, we honor the work of Emma Goldman, a political activist who advocated for anarchism, free expression, sexual liberation, birth control, and worker’s rights. An outspoken atheist, Goldman put forth a vision of society that is humanistic in its assertion that human beings themselves have the capacity to make the world a better place. She defined atheism as “the concept of an actual, real world with its liberating, expanding and beautifying possibilities.” In boldly speaking out against religion, Goldman affirmed ideals that continue to resonate with humanists today.#Humanism #WHM2021 #WHM ... See MoreSee Less

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Watch our All Society Platform featuring Congressman Jamie Raskin, "Partisanship, Fascism and the Common Good: Defining Public Ethics After the January 6th Insurrection" www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-xLLRg7wsA ... See MoreSee Less

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On the second-to-last day of #WomensHistoryMonth, On the second-to-last day of #WomensHistoryMonth, we honor the work of Emma Goldman, a political activist who advocated for anarchism, free expression, sexual liberation, birth control, and worker’s rights. An outspoken atheist, Goldman put forth a vision of society that is humanistic in its assertion that human beings themselves have the capacity to make the world a better place. She defined atheism as “the concept of an actual, real world with its liberating, expanding and beautifying possibilities.” In boldly speaking out against religion, Goldman affirmed ideals that continue to resonate with humanists today.

#Humanism #WHM2021 #WHM
Today is the International Day of Remembrance of t Today is the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. 

For over 400 years, more than 15 million men, women, and children were victims of the tragic transatlantic slave trade—a period now referred to as “the worst violation of human rights in history.” They faced brutal white supremacy and violence while fighting for their freedom. 

On this day, we honor not only those who suffered and died as a result, but also those who work to end the racism and prejudice that still exist today.
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