Humanists of Washington |
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What is a Humanist? |
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HOW is a freethought association dedicated to the
principles of Secular Humanism. We espouse a life-affirming, secular
view of the universe built on a foundation of reason, science, and
democracy. We support intellectual freedom, free inquiry, critical
thinking, and human compassion.
We hold that human beings are autonomous centers of ethical and moral development and do not require the guidance or leadership of supernatural beings. We believe that through cooperation, reason, and vision, we can create a just and peaceful world-a world in which people may determine their own destinies. Ours is a joyous philosophy for those in love with life. We take responsibility for our own lives and relish the adventure of being part of new discoveries, seeking new knowledge, exploring new options. Instead of finding solace in prefabricated answers to the great questions of human existence, we enjoy the open-ended quest and the freedom of discovery. Through our quarterly freethought journal, The Secular Humanist Press, we seek to educate the public and provide a forum for readers to explore the application of our philosophy to everyday life. We debate timely topics, air opinions and experiences in our extensive "Letters to the Editor" section, feature regular columns by members and friends, and provide news of interest to atheists and freethinkers. In addition to reporting on HOW activities, our 30-page journal keeps our members and subscribers informed of news and events in the broader Northwest activist community. The Secular Humanist Press is a truly unique, one-of-a-kind publication. With various meetings, discussion groups, and social events, we seek to foster a community of Humanists who participate together in celebrations and camaraderie-people of like mind, supporting one another. If you are a thinking and concerned nontheist, you are not alone! HOW is an independent, nonprofit corporation recognized under IRS Code 501(c)(3) as an educational (non-religious) organization. All our programs and activities are under the sole direction and control of an autonomous. duly-elected Board of Trustees. How is an Activist Organization Finding solutions to the problems of our society begins with PUBLIC EDUCATION. We promote the teaching of critical thinking skills so that our young people will be prepared to function as members of a democratic society. We promote sexuality education, drug education, and environmental awareness courses. We support textbooks and curricula that present
science and evolution clearly, and we oppose "creationism" in the
science classroom. As a longstanding organizational member of the
Washington Coalition Against Censorship, we actively work to prevent
censorship in our schools, libraries, and society at large. We work for the rights of individuals to make personal decisions about their bodies free from all unnecessary government intrusion. We defend abortion rights, gay rights, women's rights, and the right of terminally ill persons to choose the time and manner of their death. Separation of Church and State We are acutely aware of infringements on the vital wall of separation between church and state. We are alarmed by efforts of Fundamentalists and others to insidiously introduce religious dogma into government, public education, and public policy. We meet this repressive thinking head-on in the media, in public forums, and in debates on political issues. It is a trying task, but one we cannot afford to disregard. "Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom
must undergo the fatigue of supporting it."
About
HOW |
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