Glass City Humanist
By Douglas Berger
Glass City HumanistMar 26, 2021
Megan Sheldon: Creating Meaningful Rituals Without Religion
Have you ever wondered how to mark life's transitions without relying on traditional religious ceremonies? Megan Sheldon, co-founder and CEO of Be Ceremonial, joins us to illuminate the world of humanist rituals. Megan shares her inspiring journey from personal grief to empowering others in creating secular ceremonies that resonate with their authentic selves. We delve into the heart of why it's crucial for individuals, especially in a society that leans secular, to have access to rituals that support personal growth and acknowledge pivotal moments—sans the religious overtones.
From the transformative croning ceremony that reclaims the beauty of aging for women to the poignant "do-over" ceremonies that allow for the reclamation of past experiences, our conversation reveals the profound impact personalized rituals can have on mental health and community. Megan also addresses the legal challenges faced by humanist celebrants, showing us the importance of legal recognition for non-religious ceremonies. With Be Ceremonial's innovative platform, Megan envisions a future where life's myriad experiences, including gender transitioning, are honored through personalized ceremonies, crafted in collaboration with those who have lived these realities. Join us as we explore how Megan's work with Be Ceremonial is crafting a new narrative for ceremony in a secular society.
An Introduction to White Christian Nationalism
We take a very deep dive into the topic of White Christian Nationalism and why it is an existential threat to the religious freedom for all of us. Then we hear from keynote speaker Dr. Anthea Butler at the recent Summit for Religious Freedom, who well versed on the danger we are facing.
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[01:00] What is Christian Nationalism?
[16:55] Keynote speech by Dr. Anthea Butler
Diverted Benefits: The Real Story About Ohio's School Voucher Expansion
We update a school busing dispute with implications regarding church and state separation. We also look into the expansion of school vouchers in Ohio, revealing that the program primarily benefits higher-income families already in private schools rather than helping low-income students in struggling public schools.
00:50 School Busing Dispute Update
15:45 Ohio School Vouchers Not Helping With School Choice
Do We Really Need Humanist Churches?
A recent survey of people and their religion saw an increase in the number of people who picked 'no preference'. These 'nones' make up over 20% of the population yet only 1 in 5 chooses to label themselves an atheist/agnostic/humanist. What can we do to help increase the number of Humanists?
One solution advocated by some in the Humanist movement is to have Humanist congregations - Humanist churches. It is believed that people are looking for rituals, meeting on Sundays, singing hymns, and other outreaches that some believe only non-dogmatic versions of church can provide.
Glass City Humanist host Douglas Berger, who has almost 30 years experience with the Humanist movement, disagrees. While some people are looking for the church experience without the supernatural dogma, many others aren't and a vibrant Humanist movement needs to cater to the needs of many different people in different ways. Douglas believes going to church on Sunday is not only an old model it's also dying even in the sectarian religious communities. Humanists should be more open to other opportunities to grow our numbers instead of being tethered to a building.
The Humanist Take on DEI and Embryo Personhood
Have you ever walked into a room and felt like the only one who didn't belong? That's the feeling DEI initiatives aim to eradicate, and today, we're peeling back the layers of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, explaining its critical importance against a backdrop of legislative pushback here in Ohio. As universities come under fire, we debunk myths that paint DEI as a one-sided agenda. Within our humanist values, we argue for communities where everyone, irrespective of race or other identifiers, is welcomed without the barriers of special privileges.
In another thought-provoking segment, we tackle the complex controversy of the recent Alabama court case involving in vitro fertilization (IVF) and personhood. We point out that Ohio's new Reproductive Rights Act draws sharp lines in the ethical sand concerning IVF. As religious convictions clash with reproductive technologies, we examine the precarious balance between faith and science. Furthermore, the conversation extends to the sensitive issue of parental and physician decision-making in children's medical care, where we stand firm on the principle of minimal government intervention.
Religious Privilege Above The Law - Dad's Place Church Bryan Ohio
When the steadfast beliefs of a small-town church collide with the rigidity of municipal codes, the result is a legal labyrinth worthy of a deep exploration. That's why Bruce Gerencser, a former evangelical minister, will share the saga of his friend Pastor Chris Avell and his federal lawsuit drama with the city of Bryan, Ohio. Amidst the clash of ideologies and legalities, we dissect the pivotal issues at play — from the constitutional guarantees of the First Amendment to the civic responsibilities of a community.
Venturing beyond legalities, our conversation pivots to the societal conundrum of rural homelessness, with Bryan serving as a microcosm of a nationwide struggle. Dad's Place Church's transformation into a shelter thrusts the spotlight upon the thin line between benevolence and zoning infractions. Where do we draw the legal line especially when the lives of those struggling is in the balance?
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01:02 Introduction
03:29 Report from WTVG in Toledo
04:00 Interview with Bruce Gerencser
46:10 Epilogue & Update
Standing Up for Trans Kids and Secular Freedom in Ohio
When Ohio's political landscape takes a turn that sends shivers down the spine of every advocate for trans rights, it demands a response—mine is unapologetically fiery. The recent override of Governor DeWine's veto on House Bill 68 is more than just a legislative move; it's a cold shoulder to the well-being of trans kids who deserve gender-affirming care and the right to participate in sports. In this episode, we propose legislative changes that champion the rights of all children. From challenging religious exemptions to advocating for initiatives like free school lunches, we confront the political maneuvers that threaten to undermine our shared values of compassion and equality.
We wade through the murky waters where religion and freedom intersect, casting a spotlight on the secular challenges emerging in state legislatures. We examine the recently released State of the Secular States Report from American Atheists. These reports will tell you where your state stands on real religious freedom or has it been consumed by fake moral panics in 2024. Join us for a crucial examination of these pressing social issues and the integral role they play in the broader narrative of human rights and secularism in America.
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01:01 Gary Click's Attack on Trans Kids
13:25 American Atheists State of the Secular States Report
Voices Unheard: Examining Global Challenges to Freedom of Thought
We discuss the 2023 Freedom of Thought Report by Humanist International. We explore the bias in the International Religious Freedom Act and the need for more representation of atheistic and humanistic voices. We highlight discrimination faced by humanists worldwide and the challenges of mandatory religious instruction in schools. We emphasize the importance of protecting secularism and pluralism and call for collective action to dismantle barriers to freedom of thought.
05:17 History and Context of the Freedom of Thought Report
15:48 United States Commission on International Religious Freedom has had no atheists appointed
19:51 Selected clips of speakers from Freedom of Thought Report press conference
Being Secular During Religious Holidays and the Real Origins of the Religious Right
What if the Christmas tree had more to do with paganism than Christianity? What if your favorite holiday celebrations were more inclusive, less religious, and yet equally festive? We explore secular alternatives like Human Light and Festivus, and address the 'Happy Holidays' vs 'Merry Christmas' debate in an attempt to foster inclusivity and respect for everyone's beliefs during this festive season.
Strap in as we journey back to the rise of the religious right in the 70s and 80s, a movement not birthed out of conflicts over sex education or abortion, but a court ruling disallowing tax exemptions for religious schools endorsing racial discrimination. We analyze the political activism of Jerry Falwell and Ralph Reed, and their influence on the 2016 and 2020 elections. Ronald Reagan's role in the movement and he led to Donald Trump. We round off the episode by spotlighting the issue of conservative religious groups violating tax laws and the IRS's backlog of untouched cases due to political influence. Beware that you aren't indirectly supporting discrimination or a conservative agenda.
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00:45 Being Secular During Religious Holidays
15:07 The Real Origins of the Religious Right
Defending Church-State Separation: A Conversation with Andrew Seidel
Join us for a captivating conversation with the esteemed Andrew Seidel, vice president of strategic communications for Americans United. Andrew, a seasoned attorney and ardent defender of the First Amendment, takes us through his remarkable journey in law and his dedication towards upholding the separation of church and state. He offers intriguing insights into the legal concept of 'standing' and the pivotal role of this church-state separateness in shaping many contemporary issues.
Our discourse further unravels the NOT subtle weaponization of religious freedom, a disconcerting trend that threatens democracy by privileging a select few such as the new speaker of the US House Michael Johnson, a Christian Nationalist of the first order. As we weave through the integral threads of church-state separation within the fabric of our republic, the significance of authentic religious freedom and the strive for unexceptional equality becomes evident. Andrew concludes our engrossing dialogue on a positive note, expressing optimism in the growing awareness of people towards this significant struggle. Eye-opening and enlightening, this conversation is a must for those keen on comprehending the profound correlation between religion, state, and the fight for equality in America.
01:43 Origin Story
05:10 How Are 1St Amendment Cases Litigated?
09:14 Christian Nationalists Attack On Public Schools
15:09 Weaponizing Religious Freedom Harms Democracy
19:28 1st Amendment Doesn't Just Protect The Religious
24:01 Speaker Michael Johnson Is A Christian Nationalist Of The 1st Order.
31:14 Ending with Some Optimism
Dawne Knoch Anthony's Escape from Abuse and Religion Is Paved in Song
Join us for a deeply moving conversation with Dawne Knoch Anthony, a courageous survivor of domestic abuse and religious trauma, who has redefined her life with resilience and strength. Dawne openly shares her experiences from her conservative religious upbringing to her transformation into an author and advocate.
The narrative unfolds with Dawne unspooling her early years in a religious household and her struggle-filled journey through relationships in a conservative environment. Hear her talk about the pressures of marriage, the challenge of raising and homeschooling nine children, and the debilitating depression that followed. Her tale takes a turn with her passion for writing fueling her to pen two books - one on Beethoven, her favorite composer, and a memoir of her life, all while grappling with parenting and a stifling marriage.
Dawne's story transcends her personal struggles, transforming into a beacon of hope for others. As an advocate for survivors of domestic violence and religious trauma, she gives voice to those silenced by similar circumstances. Discover how her life post-religion has been imbued with meaning and purpose, how she raises funds for domestic violence shelters through recitals, and her unwavering optimism for the future. Tune in for an inspiring and enlightening dialogue that celebrates resilience and our incredible capacity to overcome and thrive.
Breaking Down Societal Norms: Henry Rollins and Release Time Religious Education
Growing up a punk rock fan, I've always admired the raw emotion and honesty embedded in the genre. Reflecting this, we dive into the life of punk rock legend Henry Rollins and uncover the turbulent family dynamics that shaped him. You'll learn how those experiences shed light on the importance of families choosing to remain together out of love, not obligation, unearthing the implications of societal and religious pressures on family ties. Whether it’s Rollins’ strained relationship with his mother and stepfather or a family member of mine who severed ties with her own mother, we challenge the 'perfect' nuclear family narrative that pervades our society.
Building on the theme of societal pressures, we shift the conversation to a contentious issue that has stirred my passion for the longest time: religious education in public schools. In Ohio, a unique arrangement known as Release Time Religious Education allows public school students to attend Bible school classes during the school day. As a humanist and atheist, we grapple with the thorny issues this raises, not least the infiltration of LifeWise Academy, a group pushing for these Bible classes, into our school systems. While sifting through the delicate balance of religion and education, we raise critical questions about the role of school district personnel in student recruitment for these classes and the potential dangers therein. So, tune in for this eye-opening exploration of familial and societal tensions.
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01:00 Henry Rollins And The Myth Of The Nuclear Family
15:59 Dealing with 1st Amendment Violations In Release Time Religious Education Classes
All Our Solutions Are Incomplete with David Breeden
Join us as we delve into an insightful conversation with Dr. Reverend David Breeden, senior minister at the First Unitarian Society of Minneapolis. Listen as he walks us through the fascinating history of congregational humanism and shares the ways in which his congregation has been a part of the humanist community since 1916. Discover how his poetic writing has shaped liturgies for a secular audience, and get a better understanding of the difference between religious and secular humanism. Listen as David shares his unique experiences and insights as a humanist minister, and learn about his work to foster a safe and inclusive environment for his congregation.
This episode isn't just about congregational humanism. We also discuss Mary Midgley's idea that all solutions are incomplete, and how this thinking can inform humanist thought and our decision-making process today. Learn how the “feminine arts” were used by the Cambridge women of the World War II generation to question virtue ethics, and explore the potential impact this could have on our current view. We’ll also touch on the possible implications of new discoveries in astronomy on our understanding of the universe. Lastly, we consider why some governments might hesitate to implement solutions that could reduce poverty, and explore the potential for a society that empowers individuals to make their own life decisions. This thought-provoking episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in humanism and its potential role in our society.
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Ignoring The Community With St. Anthony's Church Transformation
Listen in as we unravel the story of St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Toledo, a once-abandoned church that was saved from demolition by the tireless efforts of Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur and the Lucas County Land Bank. We discuss the process of determining what the building could be used for, guided by the wishes of the community and the ideas generated by a focus group. We talk about potential uses for the space, such as a health and athletics center, a museum, and a focal point for the neighborhood, while keeping the conversation rooted in the neighborhood's needs.
We look at the Lucas County Land Bank's redevelopment plans, including the shift from proposing affordable housing to a community event space. We examine a controversial proposal by Adventus, a recreational company, to turn the church into a for-profit climbing gym, and how this is not what the community wants. You'll hear how this case may set a precedent for the redevelopment of other abandoned churches in Toledo. Don't miss this engaging conversation on community development, preservation, and the creative reuse of old buildings.
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00:45 Group News
02:20 Update on St. Anthony's reuse project
26:36 Update Epilogue
Guess What Happens When Christian Nationalists Write A Reproductive Rights Amendment?
We talk about our recent experience at the Maumee Summer Fair. We don't have a lot of money for advertising and instead rely on setting up booths at festivals. The layout was different this year due to street construction. Despite this, we were able to meet new people and reconnect with some former group members. A new addition to the booth, a wheel with humanist values that people can spin for the chance to win a prize, helped educate people about Humanism and was a great activity for kids who visited.
Next we looked at the farce that was the Ohio Ballot Board on August 24th. Secretary of State, and US Senate candidate, Frank LaRose, who chairs the Ballot Board, is responsible for the ballot language for a proposed constitutional amendment called the 'Right to reproductive freedom with protections for health and safety'. LaRose's office created a draft of the language, ignoring the draft submitted by the coalition supporting the amendment. Senator Paula Hicks Hudson attempted to substitute LaRose's draft with the coalition's, but it was voted down. LaRose also changed the language so it dismisses Trans individuals. This was an effort trying to gaslight voters by using inflammatory and manipulative language in the summary that appears on the official ballot.
State Senator Theresa Gaverone violated the rules of the committee by arguing the merits of the amendment using false and inflammatory language. Senator Gaverone's statement, which was full of lies and fabrications, leaves out the fact that the current onerous regulations imposed on abortion clinics would be removed and that late-term abortions are rare and typically occur due to health complications. It's clear that some people are using manipulative tactics to prevent the abortion rights amendment from passing, but we'll see what happens in November.
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00:55 Maumee Summer Fair Recap
15:04 Guess What Happens When Christian Nationalists Write A Reproductive Rights Amendment?
The Christian Nationalist Ideologies of a Law School Professor
We're venturing into a discussion about renowned Professor Lee Strang, a symbolic figure of Christian Nationalism in Northwest Ohio. From his significant role in academia as a law professor at the University of Toledo to his controversial advocacy for so-called Intellectual Diversity centers at Ohio law schools, Strang's influence is widespread and thought-provoking. His recent participation in State Issue One showcases his role at the core of significant legal and societal debates.
Our discussion doesn't shy away from the controversial aspects of Strang's work. We dissect his interpretation of the First Amendment, where he argues it excludes atheism and secular humanism from the definition of religion, and discuss his belief that an unborn fetus should be constitutionally protected. We also touch on his founding of the Northwest Ohio Classical Academy, a religious school disguised as a public charter school with a distinct approach to education, and how his views on constitutional originalism shape his approach to these institutions.
Finally, we delve into the complexities of Strang's Christian nationalist influence and discuss the appearence of a quid pro quo with the leaders of the Ohio Republican Party and Ohio anti-abortion groups. By examining Strang's founding of the Northwest Ohio Classical Academy and his attempts to pass State Issue 1 with State Senator and former student Rob McColley, we provide an intriguing look into the dynamics of Trumpian politics. Whether you agree with his views or not, Strang's influence in Ohio and beyond cannot be ignored. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of one man's impact on law, education, and society in the state of Ohio.
Editor's note: Professor Strang was invited to be a guest on the show to talk about these topics. He initially agreed to appear then shortly before it was to be recorded he canceled the interview.
00:56 Introduction And Clarifications
11:27 Originalism And The 1St Amendment
24:27 Anti-Abortion Activist
30:05 Letter About Homosexuality Harming Families
41:30 Founding Of Religious School Disguised As Public Charter School
55:13 Media Darling
The Fight for Fair Voting in Ohio: An In-Depth Look with Greer Aeschbury
Join us in our captivating dialogue with the dynamic Greer Aeschbury, Ohio's senior campaign manager with All Voting is Local Action. She provides her expert perspective on the essential work the Ohio Voter Rights Coalition is doing to ensure voting accessibility and fairness. Together, we dive deep into their battle against State Issue 1 and the repercussions of the new voter ID law.
A significant part of our discussion centers on the implications of Ohio's collaboration ban. We unravel how it adversely affects poll worker recruitment, voter registration, and voter education. Despite claims from the Secretary of State that the law is an anti-fraud measure, it's clear that it's hampering the Board of Elections' ability to cooperate effectively with community groups. We take a moment to laud the fundamental work of poll workers and encourage you, our listeners, to take an active part in this process.
As we round up our discussion, we give a nod to the upcoming special election on August 8th. It's a chance for Ohio's citizens to protect their constitutional rights, so be sure to cast your 'no' vote. We also explore the challenges in requesting and returning ballots, and the necessity of visiting your board of elections in person. With the help of the Ohio Voter Rights Coalition, we emphasize the importance of spreading the word and getting involved. Tune in to be part of this enlightening discussion and make a difference in promoting accessible and fair voting.
01:01 Introduction and Voting No on August 8th
07:57 Getting a free ID to vote isn't completely free
13:42 Collaboration ban hurts poll worker recruitment
22:58 What can average person do against these voting obstacles
Revolutionizing Democracy: An Insight into Ranked Choice Voting with Josie Schreiber
Join us as we sit down with Josie Schreiber, a regional organizer for Rank the Vote Ohio, to uncover how the implementation of ranked choice voting can shift the dynamics of our current election system. Listen as Josie reveals the mechanisms of ranked choice voting, highlighting its potential to secure a majority vote for winning candidates and eliminate voter apathy. Our enlightening discussion explores the organization’s mission and efforts to promote a stronger voice and greater choice for all Ohioans.
Josie also offers a historical perspective on ranked choice voting in Ohio, discussing its impact on representation in elections and how it can potentially revolutionize our electoral process. We also talk about the tangible changes that ranked choice voting can bring, such as eliminating toxic campaign practices and empowering the people's voice. Josie’s passion for a more inclusive, representative democracy shines through as we discuss the many ways ranked choice voting can make democracy more accessible and fair for everyone. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!
This is our 60th episode!
01:00 What is Rank the Vote Ohio and Ranked Choice Voting
06:49 Some Concerns Addressed
13:49 Opposition to State Issue 1
16:35 How Do We Get Involved
Fighting for Equality: Religious Freedom and LGBTQ Advocacy with Alison Gill
Join us for a riveting discussion with Allison Gill, Vice President of Legal and Policy for American Atheists. Listen in as we discuss the mission of American Atheists and their ongoing fight for religious equality. We also touch on the case of an incarcerated person in West Virginia being forced to undergo religious substance abuse treatment in order to qualify for parole, as well as a Fifth Circuit case in Mississippi on the state's license plate motto reading “In God We Trust”.
We also discuss American Atheists' state scorecards, which provide benchmarks across states and show how many states have or don't have certain protections in place. We explore how these scorecards differ from a voter's guide and how they are used for advocacy purposes. Additionally, we touch on the tactic of filing a First Amendment lawsuit against abortion bans and why it is not always ideal.
Finally we examine the idea of Third Party Harm and how granting religious exemptions can be destructive and favor some religions over others. We highlight the importance of seeking help from organizations such as the National Suicide Helpline and the Trevor Project in light of the coordinated attack on the trans community happening in Ohio.
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01:00 Episode Note
02:45 American Atheists mission to defend religious freedom
11:46 State Score Cards
17:43 Using the 1st amendment to protect abortion rights
20:30 Third party harm and religious freedom
26:12 Religious Extremism Targeting the LGBTQ Community
36:30 How to contact American Atheists if you believe your rights were violated
Fighting for Democracy: The Work of Lucas County League of Women Voters
What happens when you combine the power of women voters with a dedication to inclusivity and advocacy? You get the incredible League of Women Voters, Toledo, Lucas County! We had the pleasure of talking with Anne Fabazac Payne, the organization's co-president, who shared her insights on the league's mission and we dove into the new voter restrictions in the state, highlighting hidden barriers like government-issued ID requirements and the need for birth certificates to verify name changes.
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00:45 Intro/League Of Women Voter's Mission
08:21 Barriers To Voting In Ohio
30:10 Education Bills That Worry The League
Spend An August Weekend At BAHACON
As the weather turns warmer, Humanists look to attend various conferences, events, and fairs. We gather in groups for affirmation, networking and the fun of socializing. We speak to Bob Barnes, President of Bluewater Atheists Humanists and Agnostics in Sarnia Ontario, about their conference coming up in August.
What's New at the AHA with Nicole Carr
We talk to the interim executive director of the American Humanist Association, Nicole Carr, about her journey to Humanism, why social justice is important (it's about church and state), and what goes into awarding the Humanist of the Year honor.
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01:55 Intro/Journey To Humanism
09:44 Social Justice Is About Church And State Issues
16:18 Deciding How To Award The Humanist Of The Year
21:19 The 82nd AHA Conference
How Two Women Got Justice From Their Sexual Harasser with Cami Roth Szirotnyak & Rachel Richardson
Part memoir, part step-by-step guide, 'On Drowning Rats: How Two Women Took Down A Sexual Harasser and How You Can Too' tells the triumphant story of Rachel Richardson and Cami Roth Szirotnyak, two women who discovered they were sexually harassed by the same man (one of Toledo’s most prominent nonprofit founders and fundraisers), and how they successfully—and publicly—sought justice.
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00:59 Introduction And Learning They A Lot In Common
19:10 One Incident Is Too Many - Why They Fought Back
28:30 Should We Let A Harasser Be Redeemed?
Separation Of Church And State: The Foundation Of Democracy With Rachel Laser
The Missouri Legislature enacted a total ban on abortion and were not subtle about writing and supporting it because of their religious beliefs. Rachel Laser, President of Americans United for the Separation of Church and State is our guest. She will explain why her group joined with faith leaders in a lawsuit to block the ban why separation of church and state is the foundation of democracy and we learn about an upcoming Religious Freedom conference hosted by her group.
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01:00 Intro/Missouri Abortion Ban Lawsuit
19:38 The Summit for Religious Freedom (SRF)
23:08 Johnson Amendment
28:33 School Vouchers
Saving Lake Erie with Mike Ferner
Toledo found out about algal blooms when they caused the water supply to shut down for three days in 2014. Mike Ferner, activist and former Toledo city council member, and his group, Lake Erie Advocates, have the solution to the blooms but the Ohio statehouse isn't listening. Is it too late?
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00:50 Why We Should Oppose Factory Farming
12:19 Maumee Dumps Sewage And What We Can Do To Help
23:25 Mike's Thoughts On East Palatine And Carty Finkbeiner
Chasing Unicorns with Camp Quest
At our January meeting, we had Jill Burdick from Camp Quest Michigan via Zoom to tell us all about the only summer camp for kids not based on religious beliefs. Camp Quest has many locations around the country and it's time to sign up to be a camper or volunteer or to donate so more kids can attend.
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00:49 Prolog & WAKT Announcement
07:24 Overview of Camp Quest
25:03 Camp Quest is inclusive
42:39 General costs and communication
Does the Government Test Your Faith?
We learn about the recent Ohio law that forces colleges and universities to do what many already do - make accommodations for religious believers. A push for safe housing in Maumee gets a push back from landlords not wanting to spend the money to comply. March 1st brings an end to the pandemic allotment of food stamps. People shouldn't have to worry about paying for food.
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00:55 Does the Government Test Your Faith?
19:54 Safe Housing Push Back in Maumee
32:19 End of Pandemic SNAP Allotment and End of Amazon Smiles
Just Say No To Interfaith
We look at why Humanism doesn't belong in Interfaith spaces and we hear a letter to the editor about addressing violent crime in Toledo. We also take time out to acknowledge a show milestone.
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00:46 Episode 50!
05:13 Say No To Interfaith
25:31 Letter to the Editor
Critical Thinking Can Save The World
We look at critical thinking. What does it include and how do we not misuse it. Then we take a look at another church and state issue at a local school during election day. Was it on purpose?
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00:45 Critical Thinking Can Save The World
19:37 Bible Quotes At A Public School On Election Day
A Pseudo Conflict Between Intersectionality And Humanism With Michael Werner
Michael Werner, longtime member of the Unitarian Church and a past President of the American Humanist Association, believes an effort to finally update the church's bylaws will extinguish the strong history of Humanism and leave the church open to the evils of post modernism. Werner also believes that the church is abandoning Enlightenment principles of reason, science, tolerance, affirming the inherent worth of all people, and replacing it with work on social and racial justice issues. Is that really true?
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01:00 Interview with Michael Werner
37:18 The Black Empowerment Controversy
50:08 Social Justice Is Not Pie
Fake School Assemblies and Banning Guns
Religious conservatives are performing school assemblies and funneling kids to church all at taxpayer expense and earlier this month the SHoWLE Board voted to ban weapons at meetings. Doug explains why.
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00:45 Fake School Assemblies
16:14 SHoWLE bans guns at meetings
Evangelize For Humanism Without Evangelizing Humanism
How can one sell Humanism to the public without appropriating suspect tactics used by the religious to recruit to their groups? Doug talks about his experiences selling Humanism over the years and how we can reach people and bring them to us. Finally we give an update about a busing dispute involving religious school kids and a public school district.
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Get Younger or Die
Organized groups are having trouble with declining numbers because younger people don't think the groups address their concerns like social justice. Secular groups should address those issues because they have long roots in the conflict between church and state.
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00:50 Our upcoming events
06:18 Get Younger or Die
Banning Abortion Violates Religious Freedom
Our guest is Marcee Lichtenwald, a member of SHoWLE, who is a volunteer patient escort with the Toledo Abortion Center We talk about the post Roe landscape for reproductive rights, her time as a patient escort, and what we can do to support abortion rights.
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01:00 A Post Roe World
07:34 Ban is a violation of the 1st amendment
11:06 Why we need patient escorts
21:19 I Fund Abortions
25:15 What to know when protesting
27:26 Protesting churches
31:10 How can men support abortion rights?
Separation of Church and State Had A Bad Week
In this episode, we look at the just concluded US Supreme Court term and how it shakes out for religious freedom. It isn't good.
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02:28 Boston Flag Case
13:15 Free Money for religious schools
20:12 Coach is kneeling on a prayer
Blumner Is Wrong: All Individuals Are Important To Humanism
Robyn Blumner of the Center of Inquiry took the opportunity, in a recent editorial, to slam identity politics, woke progressives, and took a cheap shot at the American Humanist Association.
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01:22 Why aren't all individuals important to Humanism?
13:55 Richard Dawkins the Snowflake
Conferences, Events, and Fairs OH, MY!
We interview Bob Barnes from Bluewater Atheists Humanists and Agnostics in Sarnia Ontario, about their conference coming up in August. Then we note other conferences and events this summer and fall.
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01:27 Talking BAHACon with Bob Barnes
21:22 Other Conferences and events this summer and fall
Evangelicals Have Bible Verses To Justify Their Hate with Bruce Gerencser
Bruce Gerencser knows something about evangelical Christians. He pastored Evangelical churches for twenty-five years in Ohio, Texas, and Michigan. He left the ministry in 2005, and in 2008 he left Christianity. Bruce is now a humanist and an atheist. We talk to him about his journey to freethought and we get his intimate insights about evangelical Christians and why we need to be wary of them.
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01:12 Bruce's Journey to Humanism
20:40 The Problem with Evangelicals
28:24 What Can Be Done with Christian Nationalism
Everyone Is Wrong About Everything with The Friendly Atheist
We talk to Hemant Mehta, also known as the Friendly Atheist about his move to OnlySky.media, how he came to atheism, his thoughts on banning books and other Christian Nationalist activities, and his mantra that if you don't like something get active.
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01:20 Moving To The Onlysky Platform
10:49 Becoming The Friendly Atheist And Dealing With Evangelicals
21:17 The Problem Of Christian Nationalism
28:04 If You Don't Like Something, Get Active
Release Time Religious Instruction Is Unethical
We look at the use of Release Time Religious Instruction in some Northwest Ohio public schools and why the mixing of religion and the schools might be legal but it is at best unethical. We also share an update about the Secular Humanists of Western Lake Erie and this podcast.
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01:15 Some announcements
10:33 Release Time Religious Instruction in Elwood
30:00 Correction
Making Amends and Having Children
Does making amends decades after a wrong choice fix anything? Can having children actually be immoral? and what two women with Toledo connections have played a part in the history of Humanism?
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00:45 New Cover Art
02:52 Making Amends
17:59 Anti-natalism
24:58 Two Humanist Women with Toledo Connections
When Heroes Turn Out To Be Mere Human
In this episode we find out that even Humanists have concerns about people we honor as Humanists of the Year and that is a good thing. Douglas then talks about the recent report released by the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty and the Freedom From Religion Foundation about the connection of Christian nationalism to the January 6th Insurrection.
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00:51 AHA Humanists of the Year Hindsight
19:08 Christian nationalism & the January 6th Insurrection
Can We Find Personal Responsibility Again?
In this episode, we have a panel discussion about personal responsibility with some members of the Secular Humanists of Western Lake Erie. Then as a free bonus we talk about a church and state case recently before the US Supreme Court concerning flying the Christian flag in front of Boston City Hall.
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00:58 Show Intro
03:55 Personal Responsibility Discussion
23:24 Boston City Hall Flag Case
Thank a Pagan for Christmas
In this episode, we look at the real reason for the season and how our holidays began with early humans marking the shortest day of the year in hopes that light would return. Next Douglas talks about actor Wil Wheaton's recent social media post admitting to his homophobic past and how Humanists and others can follow his current path to be better people then finally we note how some Star Trek fans, in an effort to maintain their bigotry, miss the entire point of Star Trek.
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01:07 Thank a Pagan for Christmas
20:36 It is never too late to be a better person
31:48 The Wokeness of Star Trek
Poems from a Heathen Mommy with Megan Rahm
In this episode our guest is poet Megan Rahm. We discuss her book of poetry 'Free to Roam: Poems from a Heathen Mommy' and her journey to freethought. She not only shares some selections from the book but also talks about her mental health struggles, her chosen artform, and her upcoming memoir.
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00:58 Quintessential Midwest mom
08:49 Girl Mom and other selections
17:12 Future Plans
Secular Student Alliance: The Cool People on Campus with Kevin Bolling
In this episode we talk to Kevin Bolling, the executive director of the Secular Student Alliance, which is the only national organization dedicated to atheist, humanist, and other non-theist students. We discuss what the SSA is and does, its efforts to protect real religious freedom on campuses across the country, and what SSA is looking forward to in the future.
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00:58 We Are Secular Students
12:44 Real Religious Freedom on Campus
20:51 What does the future hold
Beware Rose Colored Glasses of Forced Patriotism with Emily Newman
In this episode we talk to Emily Newman from the American Humanist Association about forced patriotism, the false narrative about Critical Race Theory being taught in school and what's coming up from the AHA as it looks for a new executive director.
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00:57 Forced Patriotism
08:39 The Myth of Critical Race Theory
17:41 An AHA Update
Spiders, Science, and Avoiding Pedestals with PZ Myers
In this episode we talk to the well known and respected Dr. PZ Myers about the war on science, spiders, and why we shouldn't put heroes on pedestals including PZ himself.
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Bonus content is available to show donors and members
1:34 PZ's Origin Story
3:17 The War On Science
9:00 How PZ Became An Atheist
13:19 Calling Out Bad Atheists
17:49 The Myth Of Cancel Culture
22:11 Spiders! Oh My!!
Humanism is on the Right Side of History
In this episode we take a look at our history through two individuals who expressed a humanist outlook even if they weren't humanists as we think of today. Albert Sabin and Pauline Steinem came from poor backgrounds to accomplish renown in their time. We also look at some news for the group.
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01:12 Pauline Perlmutter Steinem
10:33 Dr. Albert Sabin
23:34 Group News
Building Interfaith Bridges with Chris Highland
In this episode, we talk to Chris Highland a former Protestant minister for 14 years and an Interfaith chaplain for 25 years. We discuss his journey to Humanism, his efforts trying to build bridges between people of faith and freethinkers, and his various writings on the topic including a weekly column in his local newspaper. We'll also touch on his recent controversial remarks about "Angry, Anti-religious Atheists".
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01:08 Journey to Humanism: My Faith Evaporated
24:45 Angry Anti-religious Atheists
42:17 End Note: We Got A Grant