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Douglas Berger에서 제공하는 콘텐츠입니다. 에피소드, 그래픽, 팟캐스트 설명을 포함한 모든 팟캐스트 콘텐츠는 Douglas Berger 또는 해당 팟캐스트 플랫폼 파트너가 직접 업로드하고 제공합니다. 누군가가 귀하의 허락 없이 귀하의 저작물을 사용하고 있다고 생각되는 경우 여기에 설명된 절차를 따르실 수 있습니다 https://ko.player.fm/legal.
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Glass City Humanist
모두 재생(하지 않음)으로 표시
Manage series 2798290
Douglas Berger에서 제공하는 콘텐츠입니다. 에피소드, 그래픽, 팟캐스트 설명을 포함한 모든 팟캐스트 콘텐츠는 Douglas Berger 또는 해당 팟캐스트 플랫폼 파트너가 직접 업로드하고 제공합니다. 누군가가 귀하의 허락 없이 귀하의 저작물을 사용하고 있다고 생각되는 경우 여기에 설명된 절차를 따르실 수 있습니다 https://ko.player.fm/legal.
Explaining Humanist values, how we can live our values to support social justice issues, and responding to science denying Christian Nationalists bent on smashing the wall between church and state. Human problems require human solutions. There will be interviews, from time to time, with Humanists and other secular people in Northwest Ohio and beyond.
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101 에피소드
모두 재생(하지 않음)으로 표시
Manage series 2798290
Douglas Berger에서 제공하는 콘텐츠입니다. 에피소드, 그래픽, 팟캐스트 설명을 포함한 모든 팟캐스트 콘텐츠는 Douglas Berger 또는 해당 팟캐스트 플랫폼 파트너가 직접 업로드하고 제공합니다. 누군가가 귀하의 허락 없이 귀하의 저작물을 사용하고 있다고 생각되는 경우 여기에 설명된 절차를 따르실 수 있습니다 https://ko.player.fm/legal.
Explaining Humanist values, how we can live our values to support social justice issues, and responding to science denying Christian Nationalists bent on smashing the wall between church and state. Human problems require human solutions. There will be interviews, from time to time, with Humanists and other secular people in Northwest Ohio and beyond.
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continue reading
101 에피소드
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Glass City Humanist

1 Why Activism Matters: It's the People, Not the Process with Sean Nestor 1:04:07
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In this milestone 100th episode of the Glass City Humanist, we welcome Toledo activist Sean Nestor for an in-depth discussion on activism within our community. Sean shares his journey from high school political engagement sparked by the looming Iraq War to his current role in revitalizing local media and promoting civic involvement. We delve into the nuances of Toledo's political climate, discussing whether it truly aligns with progressive ideals or if there's a disconnect between grassroots sentiment and political leadership. Sean emphasizes the importance of recognizing the people-centered aspect of activism. He reflects on past experiences where he faced opposition but chose to persist, ultimately shaping his commitment to civic engagement. As we discuss the resurrection of the Toledo Free Press, Sean recounts the strategic moves that led the project from simple archival efforts to a functioning newspaper, highlighting the collaborative nature of activism. His passion for citizen initiatives shines through as he explains how empowering the local populace can lead to meaningful legislative changes. We discuss Toledo's perception as a progressive city. While some elected officials perceive it as conservative, Sean challenges this viewpoint, suggesting that many grassroots movements reflect a more progressive populace eager for representation. Sean articulates the disconnect between political leaders and the electorate, drawing attention to significant issues like the decriminalization of marijuana, which received overwhelming support from voters despite political pushback. This discrepancy underscores the need for politicians to be more attuned to their constituents. Our engaging conversation serves as a call to action for listeners, encouraging them to reflect on their roles within their communities and the broader implications of their activism. Join us as we celebrate 100 episodes of fostering humanism and community engagement, and be inspired by Sean's unwavering commitment to creating a more just and compassionate society. 01:00 Marking 100 Episodes and commitment for more 14:19 Why Activism Matters: It's the People, Not the Process 54:53 Resurrecting the Toledo Free Press Full Show Notes and Links Used Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Grassroots and Political Action During Tough Times with Natalie Hastings 39:58
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Our guest is Natalie Hastings, an organizer for Honesty for Ohio Education and Ohioans Against Extremism. The conversation delves deep into the state of public education in Ohio, the implications of grassroots organizing, and the critical importance of maintaining the separation of church and state. Hastings recounts how her experience as a mother and a public school advocate inspired her to engage in activism. After noticing detrimental changes in her community’s public school policies following the election of conservative board members, she rallied with other parents to challenge a resolution that limited discussions around race, gender, and socio-economic issues. This grassroots movement led to successful litigation that removed the policy. Through her advocacy, Hastings became acquainted with Honesty for Ohio Education, a group committed to fighting against curriculum censorship and ensuring a safe educational environment for all students. We review the legislative battles over mandated release time for religious instruction in public schools. Despite setbacks, Hastings finds value in the community engagement and alliances that formed during the fight. She discusses the power of grassroots movements, highlighting that even small concessions can be seen as victories in an uphill struggle. Through this narrative, Hastings emphasizes that community mobilization and persistent advocacy are essential for safeguarding public education rights. 01:00 Grassroots Organizing & Released Time Religious Instruction Mandates 19:35 School Vouchers in Ohio and Tool Kits Full Show Notes & Links Used Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Discovering Third Places and Astroturf Right-wing Misinformation 38:50
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We explore third places, which are crucial for fostering community by providing inclusive and open environments where people from diverse backgrounds can socialize and interact without the pressures of their primary home or work life. These spaces include cafes, parks, and community centers, each serving as an anchor for social interaction. We articulate how our humanist group embodies the essence of a third place, being a venue for laughter, conversation, and support, as well as a hub for activism in the greater Toledo area. We assert that the importance of cultivating such spaces cannot be overstated, as they play a vital role in enhancing both mental and physical well-being and can contribute economically to local businesses through communal events. Shifting gears, we take a critical look at the recent online event hosted by Moms4Liberty, an organization misrepresented as a grassroots movement. During this unsettling online lecture titled "Gender Ideology 101," we dissect the misleading narratives presented by supposed experts who privilege fearmongering over factual discourse. We identify the key speakers at the event, including those with dubious credentials, and interpret their arguments that perpetuate harmful stereotypes about the transgender community. Their discussions notably mischaracterized the complexities of gender identity as a mere social contagion, reinforcing outdated and discriminatory views rather than embracing contemporary rational understanding of gender. Throughout the lecture, we observe how the speakers employed emotional rhetoric to vilify trans individuals while lacking substantive evidence to support their claims. We reflect on the pervasive theme of normalcy within their arguments, demonstrating how entrenched societal norms often marginalize those who deviate from them. We emphasize the necessity of rigorous discourse around gender identity, one that should be rooted in science and compassion rather than sensationalism and fear. Our examination of this event serves as a call to action, urging listeners to critically engage with the information from these organizations and to advocate for an inclusive society that respects and affirms all identities. Human dignity is NOT debatable. 01:00 Finding a Third Place 14:38 Right wingers So Wrong About Trans People Full Show Notes & Links Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch…
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Glass City Humanist

On March 18th, a significant ruling from Ohio's 10th District Court declared the state’s ban on gender-affirming healthcare for transgender youth unconstitutional, a decision made in light of an appeal from the ACLU of Ohio. We explore the implications of this ruling, from its roots in legal arguments to the broader message it conveys about the protection of human rights. Transitioning to our guest segment, we chat with Jeff Brooks from the Bluewater Atheists, Humanists, and Agnostics (BAHA) about their upcoming BAHACon in Sarnia, Ontario. Jeff provides a detailed perspective on the goals and logistics of this exciting event slated for August. We touch on the rich history of the conference, which aims not only to entertain but also to foster education and connection within the humanist community. We learn about the array of speakers lined up, including well-known figures like Seth Andrews, and the diverse programming designed to encourage dialogue and community building among attendees. Jeff shares insights into the importance of a friendly and inclusive atmosphere at the conference, emphasizing the design of the event to facilitate interactions among participants. Attendees can expect engaging talks, delicious meals, and the unique opportunity to socialize with speakers in a relaxed environment. The highlight of the weekend will be a scenic boat cruise along the St. Clair River, where conference-goers can continue discussions in a picturesque setting. 01:00 Some good news for Ohio's Trans community 10:22 Talking BAHACon with Jeff Brooks Full Show Notes & Links Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch…
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Glass City Humanist

In this episode, we look at the pressing issue of rising egg prices in the United States and yet another attempt to inject religion into Ohio public schools. We explore the interplay of economics and environmental factors driving the increases in egg prices influenced by the avian flu which has severely impacted the egg-laying bird population. We break down the economic principles at play, explaining how supply shortages due to mass culls of infected flocks have help lead to higher prices while demand remains steady. We also share anecdotal evidence that highlights the challenges of sourcing eggs through alternative means, such as homesteading. A friend's costly venture in raising chickens offers a stark contrast to the factory-farming practices that dominate the market. The discourse then shifts towards the ethics of those practices, examining how factory farming not only compromises animal welfare but also how it contributes to industry-wide vulnerabilities when diseases like avian flu strike. Then we transition into a legislative discussion surrounding Senate Bill 34, introduced in the Ohio legislature, which aims to promote specific historical documents, including the Ten Commandments, in public school classrooms. We scrutinize the motivations behind this bill, suggesting it serves as a thinly veiled attempt to interject religious doctrine into public education. By comparing historical context and Supreme Court precedents, we argue that this legislation undermines the principle of church-state separation and reflects a troubling trend of religious nationalism within educational policymaking. The premise that displaying the Ten Commandments would cultivate better citizenship is challenged as we emphasize the importance of addressing actual educational needs—like providing school meals—over advancing a religious agenda. Full Show Notes & Links Used Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch…
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Glass City Humanist

We look at the urgent and current threats to democracy and how our humanist values compel us to take direct action. The discussion emphasizes that as humanists, we hold accountable our shared principles of social justice, compassion, and critical engagement in times when these ideals are increasingly under siege. We reflect on the challenging political landscape we now face, particularly with the implications of the Trump administration returning to power. We point out the aggressive tactics employed during his previous terms, and how this administration appears intent on dismantling essential social support systems, targeting marginalized groups, and undermining democratic processes. This heavy backdrop sets the stage for a more profound understanding of why activism and local engagement are vital now more than ever. Throughout the episode, we emphasize the necessity of solidarity, particularly in the face of discriminatory legislation such as the passing of Senate Bill 1 in Ohio, which undermines the fundamental principles of higher education and inquiry. It is crucial that we oppose such regressive measures, and our group has taken decisive steps to signal this, including passing a resolution affirming our commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and opposing bigotry in all its forms. We also explore the recently reported assaults on human rights around the globe outlined in the Freedom of Thought report published by Humanist International. We share an excerpt from a recent press presentation that illustrates the extreme repercussions faced by non-religious individuals in various countries, emphasizing that blasphemy laws and similar structures not only oppress free thought but also enable broader societal violence against marginalized groups. We celebrate solidarity as a cornerstone of humanist values and stress the importance of staying informed about ongoing legislative actions and supporting movements that advocate for equality and justice. Each of us has a role to play in championing a democratic society that respects every individual's intrinsic dignity and rights, and we encourage all of us to rise to this occasion as we work together towards a more compassionate and equitable future. Full Show Notes & Links Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Religious Freedom or Safety Concern? The Dad's Place Church Shelter Debate 32:23
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We dive into the latest developments regarding the contentious case surrounding Dad's Place Church in Bryan, Ohio. The narrative grapples with complex issues of religious freedom, municipal regulations, and homelessness, ignited by Pastor Chris Avell's decision to operate a homeless shelter within his church premises without the required permits. As tensions mount between the pastor, the local government this discussion critically examines whether religious convictions should override health and safety regulations. We further critique Ohio Attorney Generl David Yost's assertion that religious establishments should not be treated worse than other secular businesses, especially when it comes to code enforcement. We counter that claim by exploring the principle of equality under the law, emphasizing that granting exceptions based on religious identity could lead to broader societal imbalances and implications for community welfare. Using analogies involving past legal cases where churches received special treatment, the conversation asks critical questions about religious privilege and accountability in civic life. This serves as a provocative examination of the intersection between faith-based initiatives and civic regulation, compelling listeners to ponder: Should religious freedom be a shield against regulation, or is it necessary for communities to enforce the same standards for all? We invite the audience to reflect on the essential questions of justice, morality, and the enduring struggle to balance kindness with accountability in a world rife with division. Show Notes & Links Used Subscribe to our free newsletter Check Out Our Merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Humanism in the Face of Change: Fish Stark Talks Future Directions for AHA 41:46
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In this episode, we have a visit with Fish Stark, the new Executive Director of the American Humanist Association (AHA). Stark, who officially took on the role in August 2024, shares his gripping origin story steeped in familial influences and the core values of humanism, shaped significantly by his father, Pete Stark, the first openly atheist member of the U.S. Congress and 2008 AHA Humanist of the Year. As Stark seamlessly transitions into his new role, he elaborates on the mission and future of AHA, targeting the overwhelming need for individuals to find meaning and community in a contentious political climate. He highlights the alarming rise of extremism fueled by individuals searching for identity and purpose, often leading them to less savory outlets. Stark envisions the AHA as a vibrant, inclusive space where the 40 million Americans who identify as secular—yet may not label themselves as humanists—can find solidarity, identity, and opportunities for collective action. Stark touches upon the organization's recent initiatives, such as the "Democracy Not Theocracy" campaign aimed at countering the encroachment of religious extremism in politics, especially with the just concluded election period. Stark outlines his plans to enhance the infrastructure supporting local chapters of the AHA, ensuring they receive the guidance and resources necessary to thrive. The episode culminates with Stark's candid discussion on pressing social issues, such as the implications of recent legislative changes in Ohio surrounding release time religious instruction in public schools. Stark's views underscore the importance of maintaining a separation between church and state and the critical conversation on teaching empathy, compassion, and justice devoid of religious context—rooted instead in humanistic values, all supported by science. Full Show Notes & Links Used Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Ohio Legislators Tell Kids Not To Be Gay And To Read Their Bible 45:14
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We open this episode promoting a workshop Douglas is facilitating in January with the American Humanist Association Center for Education. The topic is helping Humanists speak up through writing letters to the editor, being interviewed by the press and being an advocate for issues Humanists care about. Next we delve into the legislative debates surrounding Substitute House Bill 8, which has been characterized by its ties to the so-called "Don't Say Gay" bill introduced by Christian nationalists in the statehouse. Despite the veneer of parental rights, this bill fundamentally aims to stifle discussions about gender identity in education, pushing harmful narratives against LGBT youth. As we unpack the intricacies of House Bill 8, we express deep concerns about its implications for children and the unnecessary burden it places on educators and parents alike. We highlight how specific amendments and tactics have been employed to limit public opposition to these bills. The broader implications for the education system and the rights of marginalized communities are significant, and we seek to amplify the voices of those who oppose these movements. We examine the effort to include mandating Released Time Religious Instruction policies even as the stand alone bills wouldn't have passed before the end of the legislative session. The inclusion in HB 8 was meant to bypass the normal legislative process and get an unpopular law passed in a gerrymandered super majority. 00:59 Humanists Speakup Workshop 09:29 Ohio's Don't Say Gay Bill Mandates RTRI in public schools 30:13 House Bill 8 Pass So What Now? Full Show Notes & Links Used Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Religious Indoctrination in Public Schools: The Rise of LifeWise Academy 35:03
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We dive deep into the ongoing legislative efforts surrounding LifeWise Academy, a Christian nationalist organization seeking to establish Bible classes in public schools during school hours. As the Ohio State Legislature enters its lame duck session, critical issues have arisen concerning the implications of integrating religious instruction into the public education system. We discuss the irony in religious conservative's opposition to perceived indoctrination in schools while actively working to insert their own bible based curriculum through legislative maneuvering. The pressure mounts on lawmakers to pass bills that could fundamentally alter the nature of public education in Ohio. Notably, Ohio House Bill 445 and Ohio Senate Bill 293 are designed to force school districts to adopt policies that allow for release time religious instruction, which would pull students from their classrooms to attend these sessions. We express concern regarding the pushback from not just secular humanists, but from various religious groups who feel that such actions by LifeWise undermine the integrity of public schooling and violate the principle of separation of church and state and not to mention marginlizes other sects. We share insights into the testimonies from recent hearings, highlighting a significant number of opposition voices who fear the repercussions of allowing any one religious ideology to infiltrate the public school curriculum. We illustrate the disconnect between proponents of these bills and the actual ramifications of their passing. One particularly revealing exchange involves Joel Penton, the CEO of LifeWise, who appears to misunderstand the basis for the pushback against their program. His statement insinuates that the increasing scrutiny of LifeWise's efforts is merely a byproduct of their growing program, while many opponents raise crucial ethical points regarding the integration of religious instruction with public schooling and the potential coercion involved. We look at the real motives behind LifeWise's strategy, emphasizing their aim to recruit and indoctrinate students as young as possible. The proof is in video clips from LifeWise representatives discussing their focus on elementary school children, revealing their planned approach to evangelism within an educational context that raises serious ethical and legal questions. Full Show Notes + Links Used Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Grief, Injustice, and Identity: Asking for Understanding and Empathy 47:01
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We delve into the complexities of grief and its manifestations in our lives, particularly from the unique perspective of a humanist. Grief is not only reserved for the loss of loved ones but extends to experiences such as a beloved sports team's defeat or the heart-wrenching outcome of an election. After the recent 2024 presidential election, many progressives, including humanists, felt a profound sense of loss as the majority voted in a manner contrary to our inclusive values. We unpack the necessity of acknowledging our grief as a human experience, suggesting that owning it, sharing it, and ultimately processing it can be beneficial for our emotional journey. Transitioning from personal grief, we pivot to urgent societal issues, focusing on the distressing reality of legislative changes affecting marginalized communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ population in Ohio. Recently, the Ohio Statehouse passed a bathroom ban targeting the trans community, a decision implemented through underhanded tactics. We discuss the motivations behind this legislation, highlighting the baseless fears propagated by Christian nationalists, who seek to impose their values on the rights of others. Despite these challenges, We stress the need to confront these injustices head-on and commit to advocating for our marginalized friends and family members. Finally we look at biological concepts regarding gender and sexual identity, underscoring the complexity that challenges simple binarism. Drawing on insights from a biologist's discourse on chromosomes and hormonal variations, We emphasize that the biological classification of sex is anything but straightforward. This illustrates the need for greater empathy and understanding in our discussions about identity and rights, advocating for kindness and respect over prejudice and judgment. 01:00 Dealing with grief as a Humanist 20:01 Ohio's Trans Bathroom Ban 36:36 The science behind biological sex Full show notes and links used Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Release Time Religious Instruction: Unpacking the LifeWise Academy Controversy 46:31
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Host Douglas Berger recently gave a presentation at the First Unitarian Church of Toledo, where he addressed the controversial topic of Release Time Religious Instruction (RTRI) in Ohio, with a particular focus on LifeWise Academy, which aims to provide religious education during the school day. We start by defining RTRI, explaining its legal background, and detailing how LifeWise Academy, founded by Joel Penton, operates within the law to remove children from public school to teach them biblical principles. Douglas argues that while this practice may be legal, it poses serious ethical and practical challenges for public education. LifeWise’s mission, as explained, is not to simply provide voluntary religious educational opportunities, but rather to convert public schools into platforms for religious indoctrination, which we believe undermines the common good that public schools are meant to serve. Throughout the discussion, Douglas highlights the potential dangers of LifeWise Academy's approach, citing Penton's belief that public schools are essentially a mission field for spreading their religious teachings. We emphasize that these programs disrupt the school day and divert essential resources, arguing that instead of using taxpayer dollars to support a religious curriculum, we should ensure that public schools remain a neutral space that serves all students, regardless of their beliefs. Douglas walks listeners through the legal framework of RTRI, including significant Supreme Court cases that have shaped its implementation. He notes the troubling patterns he has observed, such as deceptive marketing strategies employed by LifeWise to promote their programs in local schools, and the lack of transparency and accountability in how they operate. Particular concern is raised about the extreme religious views sometimes promulgated in these classes, which include provocative teachings on gender and biblical sacrifice directed at very young children, arguably undermining inclusive education. Douglas urges listeners to become active participants in local educational governance by attending school board meetings, forming coalitions against the expansion of RTRI programs, and advocating for clear policies that safeguard the integrity of public education. I provide practical steps for community members, including potential legislative actions that would amend current policies governing RTRI, and highlight the importance of documenting any abuses or violations tied to these programs. Full Show Notes and Links Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Secular Humanism - The Sometimes Ugly Step-child of Humanism 39:30
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We start out by looking into the complex intersection of politics and disaster recovery. Recent events, particularly the devastating impacts of Hurricane Milton—following closely on the heels of Hurricane Helene—prompt a reflection on how political narratives can distort the truth of emergency assistance. As communities in Florida and the Carolinas grapple with severe weather damage, misinformation begins to circulate, largely perpetuated by certain political factions. We recount how, after Hurricane Helene, a disinformation campaign questioned the adequacy of federal disaster relief funds, falsely claiming that victims would only receive $750, while overlooking the extensive resources offered by FEMA and undermining the very science that informs our understanding of these disasters. This politicization of disaster relief not only misleads the public but can also hinder individuals from seeking necessary assistance when they most need it. This also highlights the broader implications of anti-science rhetoric that has emerged from conservative leaders, particularly their attempts to undermine the value of scientific forecasting and climate change data. Through a critical lens, we analyze how the truth about disaster recovery funding and the context surrounding these storms is manipulated to serve narrow political agendas, which ultimately jeopardizes community welfare. Transitioning into a different but equally pertinent theme, we share insights from Douglas' recent public appearance at the Maumee Valley Unitarian Universalist Congregation, where he spoke on Secular Humanism. He navigated the nuances of being a secular humanist, a perspective that operates outside the confines of organized religion while advocating for humanist values rooted in reason, empathy, and a shared commitment to community well-being. We explore what sets secular humanism apart from Congrgational humanism, addressing its historical context and the societal implications of being considered an "ugly stepchild" in the wider humanist movement. Douglas emphasizes the importance of building bridges rather than barriers amidst differing worldviews. He recounts his experiences with the Secular Humanists of Western Lake Erie, the organization he represents, and how we strive to create a welcoming environment for all individuals regardless of their belief systems. His remarks provoke thought on the balance between fostering community and respecting diverse beliefs, even as we remain steadfast in our commitment to social justice and ethical responsibility. Full Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Building a Political Voice: Ron Millar on Humanism and Advocacy 38:04
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Ron Millar is our guest. He is the political action committee (PAC) manager for the Center for Freethought Equality, which operates under the American Humanist Association. With over 40 years of experience in nonprofit education and advocacy, including a significant tenure at the Secular Coalition for America, Millar shares his insights into the intersection of politics and humanist values. We discuss the structure and purpose of the Center for Freethought Equality, explaining its dual role: as an advocacy group (C4) that engages in lobbying and running a political action committee that can donate funds to candidates. Millar elaborates on the importance of having a visible humanist constituency within the political landscape, indicating that social and political biases against atheists and humanists persist, though they are diminishing. The conversation also reveals the importance of networking and community-building among secular elected officials. Millar highlights the establishment of the Association of Secular Elected Officials, which aims to create a support network for elected representatives who identify with humanist and atheist values. He speaks about recent activities, including their presence at the Democratic National Convention, where they engaged attendees and raised awareness for the secular community. We address the ongoing challenges posed by growing movements of white Christian nationalism, stressing the need for increased engagement from the humanist community in the political process. Millar encourages listeners to become active participants by volunteering for local campaigns, sharing their identities as humanists, and advocating for policies that align with their values, thus building recognition as a political constituency. Full show notes…
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Glass City Humanist

1 Ranked Choice Voting and Drag Queens: Kyle Herman’s Progressive Vision 32:39
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We engage in a compelling conversation with Kyle Herman, the newly elected city council member from Stow, Ohio. With a rich background that includes experiences in both national politics and international democracy promotion, Kyle shares his journey back to his hometown and the pivotal moments that inspired his decision to serve locally. Kyle offers insight into his political career, which began with aspirations of becoming a diplomat. His current role on the city council represents a deeper commitment to encourage thoughtful governance and community engagement within Stow, especially as he highlights the importance of local issues like urban development, inclusivity, and environmental initiatives. We examine Kyle's experience as an openly gay public official and discuss the significance of representation. He reflects on his campaign experience, recounting how the Stow community responded positively to his candidacy without making his sexuality the focal point of his platform. This perspective underscores the changing attitudes within his community and the importance of building bridges across demographics, especially for previously underrepresented groups. One of the highlights of our discussion centers around Kyle's initiative to invite drag queens to the Stow Fourth of July parade. He candidly describes the intention behind this decision: to foster a sense of inclusivity and showcase Stow as a welcoming community. This moment of pride, however, does not come without its challenges, as Kyle reflects on the backlash and misunderstandings that surfaced after the event. He emphasizes the importance of standing up against intolerance and reinforcing the values of kindness and acceptance. In addressing the legislative efforts to ban ranked choice voting and the mischaracterizations surrounding it, Kyle provides clarity about how this voting method works in practice. He highlights how instant runoff elections can lead to more representative outcomes, thereby reducing the polarization that often characterizes modern political landscapes. The goal is to create a system that encourages cooperation and reflects the will of the majority, rather than a divisive, winner-takes-all approach. Kyle reflects on the interconnectedness of his varied experiences—from international diplomacy to local governance—and how they all align with his mission to defend democracy. He passionately encourages listeners who may feel disenfranchised to get involved, offering practical advice to find their own path into civic engagement. Full Show Notes…
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