Here is an excerpt from Chris Stedman’s article on Ethical Culture published by the Religion News Service on October 1, 2014.

The Original ‘Atheist Church’: Why Don’t More Atheists Know About Ethical Culture?

Less than two weeks ago, more than 300 Humanists marched in the People’s Climate March. But some may not know that the American Ethical Union (AEU) was one of the principal organizers of the march’s coordinated Humanist participation—or even know what the AEU is.

In my experience, unfamiliarity with Ethical Culture—a nontheistic, Humanist religion—is more common among some atheists than it should be. As nonreligious communities like Sunday Assembly (frequently referred to as “atheist church”) expand, I’d like to see more people acknowledge and learn from the rich history of Ethical Culture.

To learn more I spoke with Anne Klaeysen, Leader of New York Society for Ethical Culture—the founding chapter of the AEU. Klaeysen also serves as Humanist Chaplain at New York University, Ethical Humanist Religious Life Adviser at Columbia University, and co-dean of the Humanist Institute.

Read the rest of Chris Stedman’s interview with Anne Klaeysen here.