Humanist advocacy can be exhausting. There are always things that need to happen, projects that seem to never get done, challenges that arise, and societal issues to better understand so we can promote solutions. It’s hard to stay motivated when we feel like nobody cares and so many are against us. But it’s so empowering to hear how important humanism is to people around the world and engage with others currently doing, or interested in doing, the work.
At a recent rally in Washington, DC, the American Humanist Association staff and volunteers tabling were greeted with overwhelming appreciation for being there, providing free materials sharing about our work, directing people to local groups in their region (some were impressed we have communities in their area), and listening to their stories. We shared the space with the Washington Area Secular Humanists, a chapter of the AHA and affiliate of American Atheists, so the table had buttons, stickers, postcards, and signs for secular and atheist voters, supporters of LGBTQ+ equality, protesting Project 2025, understanding humanist values, and the need for a secular democracy not theocracy. Many proudly added our buttons and stickers to their already heavily decorated hats and shirts, sharing with us which are their favorites or which they’ve had the longest. Some commiserated that we need to keep fighting for rights that should have been solidified decades ago, like the Equal Rights Amendment that still hasn’t been certified and published as part of the Constitution, and the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Several told us they’re not humanists/atheists but care for people who are—as they excitedly took our items to give to their friends and family—and absolutely don’t support government favoring or forcing any religion. We agreed on the need for more empathy and freedom of belief, and they thanked us for always supporting nonreligious individuals. One progressive Christian minister shared how she enjoys providing wedding ceremonies for LGBTQ couples in her area and stands up to conservative Christians on human rights issues. A young man in a yarmulke shared that he was raised Christian and had previously been a pro-life activist until his friend needed an abortion and he saw how her “supposed friends” attacked her when she needed them most. He realized how difficult health decisions are and couldn’t support the hateful rhetoric he had been taught. When I asked how his friend is doing now, he lit up sharing how she’s thriving in a more caring community. People were especially thankful to see and talk with us whenever the anti-abortion religious protestors went by with their huge wooden crosses, hateful signs, and blasting megaphones yelling about how Jesus died for our sins. Although it’s never fun to deal with those folks, it feels less scary when you’re surrounded by activists chanting, singing, and drumming over them with messages of love and justice.
A happy surprise at the rally was a Dutch man who stopped by to chat about his connection to international humanist groups and how children in the Netherlands learn about humanism in school. While the Ten Commitments have been included in some ethics and comparative religions classes, they’re mostly used by homeschoolers, scouting groups, and humanist communities; we’re working on making them more accessible to all. We also were happy to see AHA members, people we had met at pride events, a former student of our graduate program, and local humanist group members.
Each smiling face reassured us our advocacy is important, our presence is appreciated, and we are not alone. As Atheists United’s Evan Clark recommended in his recent video, find a community that gives you energy so you can do the work needed together.
The post Showing Up Is Important appeared first on TheHumanist.com.
Read More TheHumanist.com
About Author
