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THE VOICE OF HUMANIST CANADA
YOUR BI-WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
Dear Test,
Welcome to the latest edition of 'The Voice of Humanism'! This month, we are pleased to bring you thought-provoking ideas, current discussions in humanism, and updates on our community’s work in advancing reason, compassion, and secular values.
In this issue, you'll find:
Insightful articles on humanist ethics and social justice
Invitations to advocacy initiatives
A spotlight on community voices and member contributions
We invite you to stay connected, stay inspired, and join us in shaping a world guided by critical thinking and humanist values.
Happy reading! The Humanist Canada Team
P.S. Have ideas for content? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at info@humanistcanada.ca by the 1st of the month to share your suggestions and be part of the conversation.
Celebrating Black Humanists
Champions of Justice, Reason, and Equality
As we celebrate Black History Month, Humanist Canada honors the profound contributions of Black humanists whose dedication to justice, reason, and equality has shaped the humanist movement and beyond. These thinkers, activists, and leaders challenged oppression, fought for civil rights, and championed the values of critical thinking and human dignity.
From James Baldwin, whose powerful critiques of race, sexuality, and religion deepened our understanding of shared humanity, to W.E.B. Du Bois, a pioneering sociologist who laid the groundwork for racial justice and humanist thought, Black humanists have long been at the forefront of social change. Lucy Parsons and James Weldon Johnson fought for workers' rights and civil liberties, while Joel Augustus Rogers and Hubert Henry Harrison used education and journalism to combat oppression and promote secular ideals.
Their legacies continue to inspire the humanist movement, reminding us that the fight for justice is ongoing. As we reflect on their impact, let’s recommit to building a world rooted in equity, reason, and compassion.
In a world where authoritarianism and religious nationalism are on the rise, humanists, atheists, and freethinkers continue to face persecution, discrimination, and even violence. In his latest piece, Humanist Canada President Martin Firth reflects on the 2024 Freedom of Thought Report and the urgent need to stand in solidarity with those at risk.
Humanist Canada member, licensed Officiant, and friend of the organization, Steve Ghikadis, invites readers on a heartfelt journey into secular humanism in his new book, Humanism from the Heart.
Through personal stories and candid reflections, Steve explores building bridges of understanding in a world often divided by belief. With a foreword by Anthony Magnabosco, a leading advocate of Street Epistemology, this book provides insights on navigating interfaith relationships, fostering mutual respect, and finding joy and meaning in a secular life.
✨ Praise for Humanism from the Heart ✨
"Funny and heartfelt... a relaxed and joyful approach to the secular life." — Dale McGowan
"Imaginative, practical, and thought-provoking... a must-read for humanists and freethinkers alike." — David Fitzgerald
On Dietrich Bonhoeffer, "Stupidity," and the Struggle for Moral Decency in Hard Times
Recommended by Humanist Canada member Craig Barlow, this thought-provoking article explores theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s reflections on the dangers of "stupidity" as a moral failing rather than just an intellectual one. Written during the rise of Nazi Germany, Bonhoeffer argued that ignorance alone isn't the greatest threat to society—rather, it’s the willful rejection of reason and critical thought that enables oppression and injustice.
As we navigate today's complex challenges, this piece invites us to reflect on our role in fostering a society rooted in moral courage, critical thinking, and humanist values.
Want to make a difference? Humanist Canada is looking for volunteers to support our work in:
✅ Ukrainian interpretation ✅ French translation ✅ Fundraising ✅ Policy research & advocacy
If you have skills in any of these areas, we'd love to hear from you! Email us at info@humanistcanada.ca to get involved.
Latest Podcast
Understanding Atheism Through Social Science
Join one of Humanist Canada’s volunteer podcasters Daniel Dacombe for an engaging conversation with social psychologist and professor Dr. David Speed as they explore the fascinating world of social science research on atheism and religious nonbelief.
🔍 What do we actually know about atheism? 🔍 How do we know it? 🔍 What common misconceptions arise from flawed research?
Dr. Speed breaks down the myths and realities of nonbelief, offering valuable insights into the biases and methodological issues that shape public perception. As a bonus, he takes a critical look at a recent study on nonreligion and self-control, uncovering key flaws in its approach.
Abortion Care Canada (formerly National Abortion Federation Canada) provides lifesaving services to ensure abortion access across Canada. They operate a patient assistance fund, a national support hotline, and train providers—but devastating federal funding cuts have put their future at risk.
For years, Abortion Care Canada received government support to help people access abortion care, particularly those facing financial and logistical barriers. However, this funding was not renewed, leaving the organization with a significant shortfall. Without urgent donations, their vital programs may cease to exist, leaving many without the care they need.
Abortion is healthcare. Without the services Abortion Care Canada provides, many people—especially those in rural or marginalized communities—will struggle to access safe, legal abortion services.
We are asking for your help to spread the word through Humanist Canada’s newsletter and social media channels. By amplifying this message, we can rally the support needed to sustain these critical services.
✔️ Share this message to help ensure that abortion care remains accessible to all who need it.
Together, we can protect reproductive rights and healthcare access in Canada. Thank you for your support.
With appreciation,
The Morgentaler Committee
New Member Benefit
Stay Connected with Text Updates!
We’re excited to introduce optional text message updates—a new way to keep you informed and engaged as a Humanist Canada member!
📲 Sign up to receive:
✅ Timely updates on programs and events ✅ Reminders for events you’ve registered for ✅ Important announcements ✅ Details on classes, workshops, and more
This new member benefit is designed to enhance your experience and keep you in the loop—wherever you are.
Mark your calendars! Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is coming up on:
🗓 Sunday, May 5, 2024 ⏰ 2:00 – 4:00 PM EDT
This is an important opportunity for members to connect, review our progress, and discuss the future of Humanist Canada. The AGM Package, including Financial Statements and the 2023 Annual Report, will be available to all members ahead of the meeting.
📩 Stay tuned—a registration email will be sent out soon!
💙 Support Humanist Canada 💙
Donate Today!
Your membership, volunteer efforts, and financial support help us advance reason, compassion, and secular values across Canada. Every contribution strengthens our work in advocacy, education, and community building.
Be part of a growing community that champions reason, compassion, and secular values in Canada. As a member of Humanist Canada, you’ll gain access to exclusive events, resources, and advocacy efforts that promote humanist values nationwide.
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