We're Moving! A location for future hybrid meetings will be announced
BES Sunday Meetings are held at 10:30 a.m. on Zoom every week and hybrid (Zoom and In-person) approximately twice a month. To receive a Zoom invitation, please email president@bmorethical.org.
Platforms & Events VIEW ALL
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HumanLight Celebration
Come to the 3rd annual Baltimore HumanLight gathering hosted by the Baltimore Coalition of Reason on December 23!
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Register for AEU’s 98th Annual Assembly!
I hope many members of the Baltimore Ethical Society will register for Ethical Culture’s Annual Assembly taking place this 2013 in nearby Fairfax, Virginia, June 13 through 17.
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World Humanist Day Celebration: In God We Teach
BES joins the Baltimore Coalition of Reason to celebrate this day with a screening of the documentary In God We Teach.
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Being Good – The virtue of character
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for the first of four fun explorations of different ethical paradigms from the Western tradition.
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“Animal Liberation and Social Justice: What’s the Connection?”
Ecofeminist author and activist Pattrice Jones will analyze the links between animal exploitation and social/environmental injustice.
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“Freethinkers, Faitheists, and Atheists: Mapping Non-Believers”
According to a 2012 Pew survey about religious affiliation, the fastest growing group in the U.S. is the one claiming no religion at all.
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Doing What Feels Right – The pleasure principle
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for the third of four fun explorations of different ethical paradigms from the Western tradition.
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“The Dawn of Personalized Medicine”
Francis Collins, the director of the NIH, has stated that personalized medicine is likely to dramatically alter healthcare in the next few years.
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“Stone Salad Fall Festival”
Karen Elliott and Hugh Taft-Morales host our celebration of harvest and thanksgiving with stories, music, and poems!
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Caring and Doing – Relational Ethics and Pragmatism
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for the fourth and final exploration of different ethical paradigms from the Western tradition.
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“The Tree of Knowledge: Celebrating the Roots of Humanism”
Join Hugh Taft-Morales as he explores some people’s hostility towards knowledge and celebrates the liberating power of books.
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“The Vicious Circle Principle of the Evolution of Humankind”
Craig Dilworth will bring to the listeners’ attention that the nature of the development of our species is not as it is normally thought to be.
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“Church, State, and Blasphemy Rights: a Year-End Summary”
Tom Flynn will provide a secular humanist perspective on the state of civil rights 222 years after the Bill of Rights was ratified.
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“Get Money Out of Maryland Politics!”
Charlie Cooper will report on GMOM’s campaign to get the Maryland Legislature to pass a joint resolution formally calling for a Constitutional Convention.
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HumanLight Eve Party and Potluck Dinner
Come to the 4th annual Baltimore HumanLight gathering hosted by the Baltimore Coalition of Reason on December 22!
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Pancake Breakfast
As 2013 flies out the door, we celebrate with a hearty breakfast and time to connect.
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“Preserving Affordable Homeownership in Baltimore”
Bonnie Bessor, Executive Director of Rebuilding Together, will speak about the organization’s role in preserving affordable homeownership in Baltimore.
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“Transforming Jail: MLK in Birmingham”
What can we glean from the power of some to transcend jail and bring out the best? How can we apply these lessons to our own ethical action efforts, including reforming a prison system that destroys hopes and maximizes recidivism? Can we help society transform imprisonment?
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Tea and Philosophy! A book discussion of William James’ A Pluralistic Universe
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for tea, snacks, and philosophical discussion.
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“FreeState Legal: Advocating for Maryland’s Low-income LGBT Residents”
Aaron Merki, Executive Director of FreeState Legal Project, will explain FreeState’s work, give a sense of Maryland’s low-income LGBT population, and discuss the issues and work still remaining after marriage equality.
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Lewis Museum Excursion
Join us for an excursion after platform to the Lewis Museum to see the Kinsey Collection, a special traveling exhibit that chronicles over 400 years of African American history and culture from the 1600s to the present.
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“What You Can Do Today to Take Action on Climate Change”
Climate Leader Meagan Braganca was trained by former Vice President Al Gore on how to educate the public about climate change at the Climate Reality Leadership Corps training.
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“Seize the Days: How Cancer Patients Add Life to Their Days”
Dr. Evan Lipson, oncologist and founder of Seize the Days, Inc., will explore the ways that people touched by cancer bring fulfillment and meaning into their lives.
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“Diversity Matters”
This discussion, led by Ayanna Watson, will cover the importance of embracing one’s own diversity and the benefits of encouraging others to embrace their differences.
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Explorations in Bioethics and Medicine
Come for ethical discussions with Hugh Taft-Morales about some of the moral quandaries posed by changes in science, technology and medicine.
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“Choosing Concrete Solutions – Over Concrete Plans”
Tyrone Barnwell, Founder and Director of the 3 C’s Youth Initiative, will report on the efforts of the Initiative to block the proposed juvenile detention facility in Baltimore City (“Youth Jail”).
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“Why Animals Matter”
In honor of the birthday of Charles Darwin, Hugh Taft-Morales will explore the use and abuse of animals by homo sapiens.
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Vegan Food Demonstration
A vegan advocate, Megan Graney will demonstrate vegan dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a couple of deserts. You will get to sample everything she makes.
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“Ending the War on International Law”
Don Kraus will report on efforts to increase U.S. support for international law, including the new 2014 Congressional Report Card published by the Global Solutions Action Network.
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“Eleanor Roosevelt and Ethical Humanism”
Few people have done more to support Humanist values than Eleanor Roosevelt. Come explore why she is a role model for Ethical Culturists today.
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Explorations in Bioethics and Medicine: The Politicization of Bioethics
The Reproductive Justice movement creates space for much broader discussions about women, “choice” and feminism.
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“Current Feminist Issues in Maryland”
Although Maryland was recently found to be the best state for women, the Maryland Chapter of the National Organization for Women (Maryland NOW) is always seeking ways to improve women’s lives.
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“Humanizing Art”
Prior to the Renaissance, the dominant direction in European art was upward, towards the heavens, reaching for God. As Aristotelian influences turned cultural perspective back to the earth, human beings dominated the artist’s eye.
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Parenting Workshop
“Building Stronger Families – Raising Confident and Compassionate Kids” presented by Dara Feldman and hosted by the Northern Virginia Ethical Society.
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“On Stealing Ideas”
In this talk, Ben Klemens will discuss the status of the expansion, and measure the changes against the goals of intellectual property law.
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Young Adult Book Discussion Club
Join our new Young Adult (YA) book club for kids and adults as we begin reading Cory Doctorow’s novel For The Win.
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“The Truth About Our Youth”
In Maryland, kids as young as 14 can be charged as adults, meaning they are sent to the adult criminal justice system and wait in adult jails pre-trial.
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“Good Things About Capitalism”
While socialists and anarchists might think the admission that “capitalism is not perfect” is the understatement of century, this is where Leader Hugh Taft-Morales begins his defense of some good things about capitalism.
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Explorations in Bioethics and Medicine
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for the third installment of this series of discussions. This month’s topic is Money, Medicine, and Understanding Medical Controversies.
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“An Enlightened Future for All, but When?”
America was born at the height of the Enlightenment, yet outside of educated circles we seldom hear of this great humanistic movement today.
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Passover Seder with the Chavurah
Join the Baltimore Jewish Cultural Chavurah at Prologue, Inc. for their Passover Seder, a nontheistic celebration of the Passover tradition.
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“Let it Not Happen Again”
Polish born 94 years old Morris (Moniek) Rosen is a survivor of Auschwitz concentration camp, living to tell about his horrific experiences during World War II.
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“The Ethical Journey from Punitive to Unitive Justice”
This discussion will consider the ethical differences between punitive and unitive justice and the ways in which unitive justice is presently being implemented as an answer to the broken punitive system.
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“The Ethical Culture Story”
Fresh off his attendance at Ethical Culture’s annual national gathering, Leader Hugh Taft-Morales will talk about our brand of Humanism and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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Explorations in Bioethics and Medicine
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for the final discussion of this spring series. This month we focus on environmental stewardship and feeding a hungry planet.
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“Fairness and Equity for Adjuncts at MICA”
Adjunct faculty activists Katherine Kavanaugh and Joshua Wade-Smith will talk about why and how the part-time faculty at MICA chose to organize.
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“Memorial Day Remembrance”
Our Memorial Day Remembrance Sunday is a chance for BES members and guests to remember those who have died. Sharing memories can inspire us, warm our hearts, and ease the pain of loss.
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“Do You Haiku?”
Many people know that haiku is a Japanese poetic form. Quite a few know that is has a set number of syllables (17: five plus seven plus five) and lines (three).
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“Sensitizing Oneself to Critical Issues of Race”
This talk will address an issue that Karen Helm brought up in her Ethical Action Report. There is a great need to sensitize ourselves to the critical issues of race.
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“This I Believe”
Angad Singh will lead a discussion on the subject of beliefs inspired by the NPR program “This I Believe.”
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“The Nature of Science and Myths about the Scientific Method”
Professor Amy Trauth-Nare will talk about the characteristics that make science a unique way of knowing and understanding the world.
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“Yoga: Body and Mind”
After last summer’s successful seated-yoga program, Hugh Taft-Morales will offer another supplemented with more personal insights into the benefits of increased harmony between the body and mind he attains through his modest yoga practice.
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“Holistic Health: Overview of Practices, the Science, and Some Nonscience; You Decide”
Nancy Poznak will present some of the more mainstream practices popular in the U.S.
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“AEU Assembly Report”
Karen Elliott, David Korn, Emil Volcheck, and Kathleen Wilsbach will report on the 99th Assembly of the American Ethical Union.
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“The Revolving Door of Addiction”
Almost all recovering addicts return to addiction within one year after successfully completing any number of recovery treatment programs. This unsolved problem is a result of our inability to agree on the nature of the problem.
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“How Humanism Has Helped Me”
BES member Fred Compton will share his personal experiences and lead a discussion inviting others to share theirs.
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“What Does the Term ‘Special Education’ Mean?”
This presentation will include an overview of special education including a definition of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), services, and how students can be served outside public education.
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“Understanding Economics”
Wondering why, in an age of increasing productivity, prosperity is lost, jobs disappear or move overseas, and we are competing with each other to work more hours for less? Concerned that your children have fewer opportunities than you did?
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“Socially Responsible Software”
Ubuntu is an open source operating system developed on a collaborative/Wiki basis which makes an ideal replacement for Windows XP. I will explain how it works, what programs are available, and hope to have disks to give out.
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“The 2014 National Young Feminist Leadership Conference”
Laura Griffin and Eilish McCahill report on the 2014 National Young Feminist Leadership Conference.
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“Climate Change”
Climate change is drawing increasing attention around the world, no longer only from climate scientists and activists, but also more unlikely sources like the Pentagon, which recently pronounced climate change a “severe threat” to national security.
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“Roundtrip”
Fritz Williams tells a short story which revolves around a dream in which he, as an Ethical Culture leader, meets a much younger version of himself when he was an Episcopal priest.
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Peace Music and Readings
Come join Hugh Taft-Morales for an evening of music and readings about peace. Potluck and BYOB, but the entertainment is free!
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“Relationships Through Bars”
Due to reactionary tough-on-crime politics and the over-criminalization of drug use, the U.S. penal population has grown from 300,000 to over 2 million over the past three decades. The retributive model of criminal justice is inhumane and ineffective.
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“Afghanistan: What Can We Each Do?”
People in Afghanistan have faced decades of roiling devastation and war; many somehow remain persistent and determined to survive and rebuild. How can we offer solidarity from afar?
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Teen Night at The Community of Ethical People
Come hang out with old friends and make some new ones!
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“Music and Peace”
Growing up in the sixties, Hugh Taft-Morales experienced the peace movement as intimately wrapped up with music. Singing seemed a great way to give peace a chance.
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“The Long Shadow”
West Baltimore stands out in the popular imagination as the quintessential “inner city” – gritty, run-down, and marred by drugs and gang violence. Prof. Alexander’s research focuses on children who grew up in west Baltimore neighborhoods.
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“Humanist Spirituality”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores ways humanists could best approach the word “spiritual?” Does it threaten rationalism? Or, is it a term we should embrace? Can naturalistic forms of spirituality found in Spinoza, John Dewey, and Carl Sagan enliven humanism today?
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Personality Types and Communication
Come join Hugh Taft-Morales for an exploration of who we are and how we can strengthen our social bonds in a way consistent with Ethical Culture.
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“Legalizing Aid in Dying in Maryland”
Join Catherine Weber and Ellen Dinnerman as they discuss how a small group of volunteers and the national office of Compassion and Choices, DwD/AID is slowly moving towards an active campaign to bring a Death with Dignity law to Maryland.
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“Meet Olive Wetzel Dennis, The Lady Engineer”
Sharon Beischer Harwood will introduce us to Olive Dennis and remember her railroad legacy through the inventions, creative designs, work ethic, and the talent that made her ‘The Lady Engineer’ of the B&O Railroad.
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“Brewing in Baltimore: An Alternative to Mainstream Media”
Fern Shen will talk about what the experience of founding Baltimore Brew – an online-only news website – has taught her about the challenges and opportunities faced by the city and the Fourth Estate.
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“Reclaiming Armistice Day”
Ellen Barfield will discuss the original intention of 11 November as a day to mourn the terrible bloodshed of World War I, and the frightening distortion of the day to “Veterans Day”, yet another official U.S. holiday to glorify war and militarism, and thereby facilitate subsequent wars.
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“Fostering Economic Justice In An Unjust World”
In this time of rising inequality and the commercialization of human interaction, how can we recapture and defend our humanity?
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“Fall Family Festival”
Our celebration of harvest and thanksgiving with stories, music, and poems! This Sunday we express gratitude for our harvest and the rich bounty that fills our life.
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“Thinking Outside the Box”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores ways we can learn, brainstorm and think outside of the box to lead more flourishing lives and save the world!
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“Fighting For a Government That Represents Maryland’s Working Families”
Charly Carter, Executive Director of Maryland Working Families, will speak on the victories and strategies of this independent grassroots political organization.
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Take Action Against Gendercide with Baltimore NOW!
As many as 200 million females are missing world-wide because of gendercide.
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“Great Awakening”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores the waves of “righteous” social change that periodically wash over the United States and the possibility that there is a righteous humanist wave of compassion and activism on the horizon.
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“Homelessness, and Its Effects on Children”
Dr. Doaty-Mundell will speak about the effects of homelessness on children and how to build their self-esteem and confidence in the face of challenges.
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HumanLight Celebration and Potluck Dinner
Come to the 4th annual Baltimore HumanLight gathering hosted by the Baltimore Coalition of Reason on December 22!
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“Winter Festival and Pancake Breakfast”
As 2014 flies out the door, we celebrate with a hearty breakfast and time to connect.
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“Justice Begins with ‘Just Us’”
Leon Henry from Big Brothers Big Sisters will join us to discuss how mentoring not only helps youth reach their full potential, it also engages volunteers in the effort to create stronger, healthier, and more vibrant communities.
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“Ethical Policing”
Leader Hugh Taft-Morales explores the questions: “What can Ethical Humanists do to help restore justice and rebuild trust? What can we do to demand ethical policing?”
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Fun with Philosophy: Skeptical Idealism
BES Leader Hugh Taft-Morales tries to bring this esoteric topic down to earth. Come have some fun with philosophy and check your ego at the door!
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“Empowering Students to be the Leaders of their Education”
O’Shai Robinson will explore and discuss how the education system grooms students to be passive participants in their education, while wrestling with ideas of how to improve the learning experience.
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“Creating a More Welcoming and Caring Community at BES”
Liz Collier returns to closely examine two characteristics young adults look for in humanist groups such as BES.
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“For Holocaust Remembrance Day: Lessons from Lithuania”
Ellen Cassedy offers a close-up view of how an Eastern European nation is encountering the complex history of the Holocaust, World War II, and the Soviet era that followed.
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Colloquy: Humanist Spiritual Discussion Group
Does the concept of ‘spirituality’ or ‘living a spiritual life’ have any place in Ethical Culture? Science and reason are valued by humanists, and rightfully so. But does intellect negate spirituality, emotional values or that sense of “awe”?
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“A Segregated Baltimore: Reflections of 1950–1960”
James Griffin, Physical Therapist and Civil Rights Activist, will share his recollections of this momentous period in the history of Baltimore.
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“The Global Culture of Violence: What Is The Path to Peace and Justice?”
A video presentation of Christopher Hedges’ address to the Brooklyn Ethical Society in September 2014 with discussion to follow.
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Tour of Frederick Douglass Mansion
The Frederick Douglass Humanist Society (FDHS) is organizing a tour of Frederick Douglass’ residential mansion “Cedar Hill” in Washington DC in honor of the internationally renowned slavery abolitionist and human rights leader.
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“The Tao of Ethical Culture”
BES Leader Hugh Taft-Morales relies on Benjamin Hoff’s The Tao of Pooh in an attempt to keep things simple.
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“Motivate or Change: Defining the Role of the Next Generation in Social Activism”
Mr. Farajii Muhammad will speak about the role and work of the Young Leaders for Peace Coalition.
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“Humanism in Deed”
Ethical Culture, and much of humanism in general, promotes living a life of ethical action.
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Sunday Assembly Baltimore
The Sunday Assembly is a global movement for wonder and good. It is an international not-for-profit that helps people start and run their own godless congregations.
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“We Can Achieve Youth Advocacy”
Mr. Adrian Muldrow will speak about his work with the Baltimore Chapter of the NAACP.
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“Humanist Anti-Racist Activism”
Hugh Taft-Morales challenges himself and all humanists to deconstruct systemic racial privilege so we can all benefit from a more empowering multicultural perspective that honors the inherent worth of all.
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Film Screening
This month instead of screening a film at BES, we have accepted the invitation by BES member Charlie Shafer to view the film “Vessel” at the University of Baltimore School of Law.
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BES Dialogue: “Race and Ethical policing”
Instead of following the usual platform address format, this BES program will include a World Cafe discussion.
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“The Tao of Ethical Culture”
BES Leader Hugh Taft-Morales relies on Benjamin Hoff’s The Tao of Pooh in an attempt to keep things simple.
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“Motivate or Change: Defining the Role of the Next Generation in Social Activism”
Mr. Farajii Muhammad will speak about the role and work of the Young Leaders for Peace Coalition.
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Roy Zimmerman Concert: “The Faucet’s On Fire!”
In trying to change the world, sometimes it helps to take a break and have a good laugh. “The Faucet’s on Fire!” is ninety minutes of Zimmerman’s hilarious, rhyme-intensive original songs.
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“Sentencing Children to Die In Prison”
Nikola Nable-Juris will speak about the use of life-without-parole sentences for youth under 18, both nationally and in Maryland.
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“J. Robert Oppenheimer and Nuclear Agony”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores this story in the context of current efforts to rid the world of nuclear weapons.
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“From Talk To Action”
Ms. Diamonte Brown will lead a community conversation on action for justice.
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“Teaching Good: Praxis, praxis, praxis”
To help students and society flourish today, Hugh Taft-Morales suggests we emphasize some important elements of Ethical Humanism’s approach to education.
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Exploring Bioethics
Obamacare, Health Care Mandates and Rationing – Is the Affordable Care Act good in principle? How do we balance health care mandates and personal autonomy?
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“Separation Anxiety: The First Amendment at Risk”
Special Program – 11:00 am at First Unitarian Church
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“Remembrance Sunday”
Memorial Day Sunday offers BES members and guests a chance to celebrate people who have died but left us with gifts that enrich our lives.
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“Hunger, Meat, and the Banality of Evil”
Dawn Moncrief, founder and executive director of A Well-Fed World, will discuss some of the ways in which the use of animals for food increases global food insecurity.
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“Cognitive Enhancement: The Promise and Peril of Programmable People”
BES member Nathan Whitmore will address ethical issues regarding cognitive enhancement.
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“Interactions & Reflections: Anthropological Encounters with Religion”
Anthropologist Stefan Goodwin discusses riddles, fascinations, and challenges of religion in his life and work.
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“Report on the 2015 AHA Conference”
Kathleen Wilsbach and Emil Volcheck report on the 2015 American Humanist Association (AHA) Annual Conference held in Denver, Colorado, May 7–10.
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“American Paganism: What It Means to Me”
BES member Mav Vaughan is a co-coordinator of Turning Circle, an Earth-based spirituality group that meets in Columbia, MD.
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“A Life Reclaimed”
BES member Uta Allers met Mr. Saleem while volunteering at Second Chance. She was inspired by his life story.
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“AEU Assembly Report”
BES members Karen Elliott, Stephen Meskin, Emil Volcheck, and Kathleen Wilsbach will report on the 100th Assembly of the American Ethical Union that took place June 25-28.
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“The Surprising Power of Food to Prevent and Reverse Disease: What You’re Dietician Didn’t Tell You”
BES member Dr. Joe Adams will speak about the health benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet vs. the S.A.D. (Standard American Diet).
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“Effects of the 1033 Program on U.S. Law Enforcement”
BES member Laura Griffin will introduce Ms. Jessica Katzenstein, who will speak about her research into the militarization of the police.
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“The Humanist Service Corps”
The Humanist Service Corps (HSC) is a project of the Foundation Beyond Belief. Conor Robinson launched the HSC in 2014.
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“Understanding Anarchism”
What is anarchism? Is it chaos? Is it disorder and rebellion? Is it violence and darkness?
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“Raising the Minimum Wage”
Brian England will tell the story of how he joined the coalition “Business For a Fair Minimum Wage” to lobby for increasing the minimum wage at the national level.
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“Asian, American, and Asian American Issues”
BES member Tevis Tsai will offer an introduction to some of the common challenges faced by Asian Americans, ranging from their historical roots to their modern manifestations.
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Annual Summer Clean-Up Day
At BES we don’t say that “cleanliness is next to godliness” but it sure is nice to see the building sparkle at the start of each season!
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“Progress Report: From Talk to Action”
Thomas Higdon and the Ethical Action Committee will present a progress report on implementing action plans from the May 3rd event “From Talk To Action” with Diamonte Brown.
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“What is Addiction?”
Thomas Higdon is a group facilitator for SMART Recovery, an evidence-based peer support group for people struggling with addictive behavior.
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“Ethical Culture, Then and Now”
How has Ethical Humanism evolved to respond to our current crisis while maintaining our commitments to honor the worth of each person, grow ethical relationships, and build justice?
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Family Game Night and Potluck Dinner
Join us for a fun evening of food, drink, and games!
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“Acting on Climate in Maryland”
Jaime DeMarco examines the current climate movement, addressing how we talk about climate change as well as how we can move past scientists and polar bears and begin speaking from a place of deep personal experience.
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Circle of Voices Workshop
In this workshop on “racism and other isms,” explorations of the concept of race and other differences that divide will take place as workshop leader J. C. Faulk guides participants in working towards a more equitable and just society.
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“Peace, Poverty, and the Planet”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores what it will take to bring lasting peace to the planet.
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“Exploring Humanist Giving”
This is a video of a platform address delivered to the Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago on May 3, 2015.
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“So Many Good Deeds, So Little Time”
Ethical Humanism proclaims the importance of “deed before creed.” But how do you figure out WHAT deed to do?
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“Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence”
Can crimes like domestic violence, human sex trafficking and sexual assault be opportunities to send a message of compassion and love to someone who is suffering?
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“A World of Refugees”
Globalization, poverty, war, and climate change has accelerated the migration of people all over the globe.
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“Fighting For Our Youth”
Ms. Melissa Rock will talk about how Advocates for Children and Youth improves outcomes for Maryland’s foster youth through policy advocacy.
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“Manners and Morals”
Is there a connection between the erosion of civility and unethical behavior? What, if anything, does South Park, talk radio, and on-line bullying say about the state of ethics in America?
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Tim Wise Video and Discussion
Come view and discuss a video on “Exploring White Privilege” on November 8th at 4:00 p.m.
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“Stone Salad & Soup Fall Festival”
Celebrate the brisk days of autumn, at our Fall Festival. Let us gather together to feast, and delight in the bounty and beauty of autumn.
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“Speaking Up and Speaking Out”
Karen Story will tell us about her work within Dorsey Run Correctional and MCI-W.
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“How Are We Treating Ex-offenders”
Do Ex-Offenders really get a second chance? Are we aware of the collateral consequences of incarceration?
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“The Experience of Homelessness”
Speakers who have personally experienced homelessness will share their stories of that experience and talk about ways that the general public can get involved in ending this injustice.
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“Innovation in Social Work”
Professor Zabel will be speaking about the work of the Institute for Innovation and Implementation (the Institute) of the University of Maryland.
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“Human Rights and U.S. East Asia Policy”
Frank Jannuzi will briefly share personal experiences attempting to integrate human rights concerns into U.S. foreign policy in two challenging countries: China and North Korea.
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HumanLight Celebration with Baltimore CoR
Join us at the annual Baltimore HumanLight gathering at First Unitarian hosted by the Baltimore Coalition of Reason on December 23!
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“The Integrity and Humility of Science”
On the 10th anniversary of the “Intelligent Design” court case Kitzmiller v. Dover School District, humanists appropriately celebrate the liberation of science education from religion.
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“400 Years: How History Fuels My Anti-Racism”
In 2019, three years from now, we will mark the 400th anniversary of the first time Africans were brought to this continent against their will.
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“From Talk to Action: Part 3”
The goal of this conversation is to develop action items to reduce the use of solitary confinement in Maryland and mitigate it’s negative consequences.
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“Strategies to Reduce Food Insecurity”
Strategies that have been proven to reduce food insecurity will be reviewed, including specific steps that BES can take to reduce food insecurity in our community.
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“Mentoring Our Youth”
The UMB CURE Scholars Program is a groundbreaking program that prepares sixth- to 12th-grade students in Baltimore for competitive, lucrative, and rewarding research and health care careers at UMB and other health institutions in the region.
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“Equal Justice Discussion: Fixing a Broken System”
Mr. Todd Oppenheim, Public Defender, will lead a discussion on the many problems with the justice system along with possible solutions.
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Charles Darwin vs. Noah and the Ark
Celebrate the Theory of Evolution on the birthday of Charles Darwin! Join the Baltimore Coalition of Reason for a potluck dinner and to hear a talk by Fred Edwords!
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“Healing through Humanism: Grief Beyond Belief and the Secular Support Movement”
Rebecca Hensler created Grief Beyond Belief, an online community in which grieving non-believers gather to share their memories, experiences and emotions.
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Grief Beyond Belief Secular Support Workshop
An interactive grief support workshop for those who are grieving without myths or mysticism and for anyone who loves someone who is grieving.
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“Throwaway Culture: The Excess of Consumerism”
While millions of people living near landfills and dumps scavenge anything of value from the trash we discard, Hugh Taft-Morales asks, “Can’t we come up with a better way to live?”
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“Harm Reduction, Cost Containment, and a Renewed Commitment to Fundamental Fairness”
The judge will be talking about the work of the Court of Appeals and the changes in the Court’s jurisprudence, including the changes reflected in the Court as a result of President Obama’s seven successful nominations.
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“Public Health Ethics”
Public health policies at the federal, state and local levels can have a tremendous impact on community and individual health, yet those policies often threaten individual autonomy or property interests.
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Frederick Douglass Society screens “Black Church Inc.”
Join the Frederick Douglass Humanist Society of Baltimore for a screening of “Black Church, Inc.”
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“Strategies to Reduce Food Insecurity”
Food insecurity exists when a household has insufficient access to enough nutritious food to support an active and healthy life.
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Pledge Celebration Luncheon
This year’s theme is how important it is that we continue to “broadcast” humanism from our home at Radio BES.
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Baking Night at Moveable Feast
Join BES members and others for this enjoyable evening of baking. Moveable Feast provides meals, weekly groceries, and nutritional counseling to homebound people living with HIV/AIDS.
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“Can We Keep Our Democracy? (Or, Can We Get it Back?)”
Unlimited campaign money, the corruption of our political system by the donor class, systematic voter suppression, and voter cynicism conspire to challenge what’s left of our Democracy.
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“The Press, Lies and Politics”
With another presidential campaign in high gear, the public is again being tested by the best-paid spin-doctors in the world.
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“Building Our City’s Future”
Baltimore’s own Marc Steiner of WEAA and the Center for Emerging Media will be joining us to talk about race, poverty, building our city’s future and to share stories about his work in journalism.
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“Wonder”
How can we keep the unfamiliar in our lives? What is “wonder” and how can it help inspire us to live more fully?
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Between the World and Me Follow-Up Book Discussion
Due to snow and schedule, Hugh and some others missed the first discussion, so Hugh is offering a second round of discussion of Coates important work.
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Roy Zimmerman Concert: “This Machine”
In trying to change the world, sometimes it helps to take a break and have a good laugh. “The Faucet’s on Fire!” is ninety minutes of Zimmerman’s hilarious, rhyme-intensive original songs.
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“Corporate Hegemony from Cove Point to Japan”
Dr. Margaret Flowers will connect the dots between a Calvert County gas plant and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP). She is a leader of the resistance movements to both.
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“Liberation: Some Jewish Roots of Ethical Culture”
In this season of Passover, which honors the ancient liberation from Egyptian slavery, Hugh Taft-Morales explores some of the Jewish and Reform roots of Ethical Culture.
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“The Long Reach of Reason”
A TED Talk video by Steven Pinker and Rebecca Newberger Goldstein.
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Secular Humanist Seder
The Baltimore Jewish Cultural Chavurah (BJCC) has invited BES to attend their annual Potluck Seder.
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“From Talk to Action: Part 4”
A community conversation on action for justice. Issues will include empowerment of youth, opportunities for ex-offenders, and the worth and dignity of individuals (Black Lives Matter).
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Volunteer Day at Real Food Farm
Join us for a Volunteer Day at Real Food Farm, an innovative urban agricultural enterprise in Clifton Park.
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Fourth Annual African American Children’s Book Festival
Enjoy readings by authors, talks with illustrators, cultural performances, an interactive storytelling workshop by a griot performer, and craft activities to include bookbinding demonstrations by local book artists.
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“Teaching Children About Climate Change Activism”
Lynne Cherry will share her experiences with educating children, tomorrow’s leaders, about the importance of protecting our natural environment.
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“The Fragility of Goodness”
In her book The Fragility of Goodness, philosopher Martha Nussbaum explores the perils of trying to live ethically. Hugh Taft-Morales searches for answers and more.
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Black Lives Matter Discussion
As a follow up to the April book discussion of Between the World and Me Hugh Taft-Morales will lead a discussion of the Black Lives Matter movement.
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“Remembrance Sunday”
Memorial Day Sunday offers BES members and guests a chance to celebrate people who have died but left us with gifts that enrich our lives.
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Reason Rally
Come promote fact-driven public policy and separation of church and state all while celebrating freethought with many diverse groups and unique individuals attending the 2016 Reason Rally.
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“The Experiences of One Baltimore Police Officer”
Baltimore City Police officer SSG Derek Tucker will share his experiences in a program facilitated by Uta Allers.
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“Kurt Vonnegut: The Secular Sermonist”
BES member Wayne Laufert will be joined by Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library board member and Vonnegut Baltimore book club founder Jane Wehrle to explore the best-selling author’s views.
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“Learning to Breathe”
Karen Elliott will talk about qi gong and then lead some simple qi gong exercises.
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“Building Community Through Time Banking”
Time banking is a way for people to give and receive services in which their contributions are measured in time, not dollars.
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“Ethical Culture in Old England”
BES member Gordon Stills will relate a story (full of excitement) about the joy and dismay of teaching middle school students about the ethical culture of Charles Dickens and Ebenezer Scrooge.
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“Exercise the Right Side of Your Brain!”
No experience necessary – all levels of right brain use are welcome.
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“Introducing the B’more Clubhouse Tour”
Today we welcome our friends from the B’More Clubhouse – a nonprofit membership organization which assists adults with mental illness in leading meaningful and productive lives of their choice in the community.
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“AEU Assembly Report”
BES members Karen Elliott, Stephen Meskin, Emil Volcheck, and Kathleen Wilsbach will report on the 101st Assembly of the American Ethical Union that took place July 14-17 in St. Louis.
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“The Real News Network Field Trip”
The Real News Network (TRNN) is a non-profit, viewer-supported daily video-news and documentary service.
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“Esperanto”
Esperanto is a language introduced in 1887 by Dr. L.L. Zamenhof after years of development.
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“A Humanist View on the Non-existence of God”
BES member Fred Compton will share his views, insights about Humanism; What it’s about and what it means to him.
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“What is Nuclear Medicine?”
Gabriel Soudry, M.D., Director, Section of Nuclear Medicine, Medstar Health
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Family Board and Card Games Party
Join members of the Baltimore Parenting Beyond Belief Meetup for a family board and card games party at the home of Marjeta Cedilnic in Howard County.
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“Scared and Sacred Score the Same in Scrabble”
In Sacred and Scared, Charles Shafer assumes a variety of quirky characters who have religious encounters of various sorts, including, a lovely but lonely young lady, a loudmouth know-it-all, and a rabbi/teacher/CEO along with Jesus and God himself.
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“Celebrate National Recovery Month”
Join a panel of Society members and friends as they share their experiences with mental health, addiction, and different pathways to recovery.
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“John Lovejoy Elliott and a Ministry to Man”
Felix Adler, the founder of Ethical Culture, chose as his first lieutenant someone quite different from himself. John Lovejoy Elliott did not display the academic precision or vigor of his mentor Adler.
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Game Day and Potluck Meeting with Navigators USA
Navigators USA is an inclusive, co-ed, secular, all-ages scouting group.
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“Evolution of Community Organizing”
Organizing has been the cornerstone of human movement and development since the days of Moses.
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“Legalization of Marijuana in Maryland”
The Maryland state chapter of the National Organization for Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) educates the public and grows the movement toward marijuana legalization in the state of Maryland.
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Sunday Assembly Baltimore
The Sunday Assembly is a global movement for wonder and good. It is an international not-for-profit that helps people start and run their own godless congregations.
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“BUILD One Baltimore”
Baltimoreans United In Leadership Development – is a broad-based, non-partisan, interfaith, multiracial community power organization rooted in Baltimore’s neighborhoods and congregations.
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“Be Honest with Death”
What are some of the ways we can process the poignant and terrifying realization that each one of us is going to die?
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“Represent Maryland – A Grassroots Movement to Fight Political Corruption”
Represent Maryland is a local chapter of the national organization known as Represent.Us.
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“Intimate Partner Violence in our Community”
Come and increase your awareness of the problem of intimate partner violence and learn how you can help women in need.
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“Gun Rights and the Threat to Freedom and Democracy”
Possibly the most emotionally charged debate taking place in the U.S. today centers on the rights of citizens to bear arms.
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“Fall Family Festival”
BES comes together in community to share gratitude for all of the things we are fortunate to have in this celebration for all ages.
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“Transgender Progress”
Hugh Taft-Morales, a cis-gendered heterosexual, explores his own path toward fuller appreciation of the challenges for the transgender community.
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“Protecting East African Elephants”
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is the most successful orphan-elephant rescue and rehabilitation program in the world.
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“The Ethics of Sports: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly”
As a life-long sports fan, Hugh Taft-Morales is challenged to address the many ethical issues that arise around athletics in the United States.
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“Who Gets to Decide How You Will Die?”
Barbara Mancini will show how dying can be fraught with unanticipated perils for the person and caregivers.
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BES Eatery Social
Members and friends are invited to go out together for lunch.
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“Pre-trial Detention in Maryland Due for Reform”
Innovative reform proposals will be a hot topic in the Maryland General Assembly this year.
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“Meaning-Making in 21st Century Western Culture”
Margaret Placentra Johnston is the author of the award-winning book Faith Beyond Belief: Stories of Good People Who Left Their Church Behind.
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HumanLight Celebration and Potluck Dinner
Join us at the annual Baltimore HumanLight gathering at First Unitarian on December 23!
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“Healthy 2017 Demo and Lunch”
Celebrate New Year’s Day with ethical society friends and family! And start the New Year with your health resolutions intact!
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Visit to the Rawlings Conservatory
Enjoy the warmth and greenery of the Rawlings Conservatory with ethical society friends and family!
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“Seeking Guidance in the Words and Deeds of King for the Era of Trump”
Too often in political discussions and always around January 15, we hear speculation — even predictions — about how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. would react to a situation.
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“Community Solar – Solar Is for Everyone”
Thanks to a new community solar law in Maryland, everybody can go solar.
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“The First Amendment and President Trump”
As President Trump moves into the White House, what will become of our First Amendment rights, in particular freedom of press, speech and assembly?
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“Water in Baltimore & the World: Triumphs and Struggles to Maintain a Clean Water Source”
The world faces critical issues relating to water as the result of human pressures and climate trends.
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“The Beauty & Mystery of the Human Genome”
DNA, formed in the famous double helix, is organized into chromosomes and helps shape the identity of all living things.
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Lunch at Red Emma’s
Join members for conversation and delicious food at a family owned restaurant in Baltimore.
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“Coming of Age in the Other America”
In her new book Stefanie DeLuca and colleagues reveal some surprising factors associated with resiliency and upward mobility in a large proportion of disadvantaged youth, despite overwhelming odds.
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“Baltimore’s White L(ies) and the Black Butterfly”
Dr. Lawrence T. Brown will highlight how white supremacist theology helped sanctify and justify America’s racial segregation.
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“Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network”
The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN) is the nation’s leading organization devoted to addressing LGBTQ issues in America’s K-12 schools.
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“Fragility and Resilience”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores the important trait of resilience to survive health challenges, national crises, and ecological threats.
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“Autocracy and Populism on the Rise: Lessons from Turkey in the Trump Era”
Mahir Zeynalov is the first Turkish journalist to be deported from Turkey, and the first that President Erdogan sought to have imprisoned.
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“Kayla and Me”
In this reunion with BES friends, Fritz will reflect on his relationship with Kayla, his granddaughter who is serving a four-year sentence as an accomplice to a violent crime.
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BES Community Pledge Luncheon
With our recent shift in political winds, we need progressive humanist broadcasting more than ever! So we’re launching “Pirate Radio BES!” Avast ye, all hands on deck!
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“The Good News About Racism!”
There is a reason why the valiant efforts to address racism and improve race relations have been only marginally successful.
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“The Diversity of Islam”
As intolerant political ideologues whip up anti-Islam hysteria, one lesson we can all teach the world is that Islam is incredibly diverse.
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Charm City Film Series
This month, the Charm City Film Series will be screening Good Ol’ Freda.
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“Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Recycling”
Baltimore recycles almost 30% of its trash, a complicated and challenging endeavor. How do we stack up to recycling powerhouses like Portland and Seattle?
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Roy Zimmerman Concert – “ReZist”
The “ReZist” tour is ninety minutes of Roy Zimmerman’s hilarious, rhyme-intensive original songs that will bring laughter and encouragement to progressive-minded people who need a lot of both.
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“Becoming White”
Race is a social construction. But it is also a profoundly powerful, frightening, and omnipresent part of our current public conversation about the future as a nation.
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“The Good Will Revolution: Leave the Rat Race to the Rats”
Our rat race culture pits people against each other in a competition to get as much money, materials, and power as possible.
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“A Path for Rebuilding Police-Community Relations in Baltimore”
Michael Greenberger is the Founder and Director of the University of Maryland Center for Health and Homeland Security and a professor at the University of Maryland Carey School of Law.
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“Questions”
One of the most profound characteristics of the human race is our ability to question. Hugh Taft-Morales will explore this topic by asking more questions than you may want to hear!
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“Are Men Obsolete?”
Sven Sinclair, a member of the Northern Virginia Ethical Society, is an economist, actuary, former physicist, one-time Jeopardy! champion, halfway-decent chess player, news junkie, and an insatiably curious person.
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“Remembrance Sunday”
Memorial Day Sunday offers BES members and guests a chance to celebrate people who have died but left us with gifts that enrich our lives.
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“How I Learned about Death: A Humanist Story”
Every person has lost or will lose someone close to them. How do our experiences of death influence our worldview, choices, and lives?
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“Racial Justice and Transformation”
Drawing lessons from a continuing personal journey, Hugh Taft-Morales explores some challenges and opportunities in our collective effort to build racial justice.
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“Racism in Child Health: Perspectives of a Family Doc”
Max Romano will discuss his experiences exploring the influence of racism in the health outcomes of children through his work as a family physician.
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“India Pilgrimage”
Joanna Brandt’s PowerPoint presentation of her 2013 spiritual pilgrimage to India to attend the Kumba Mela.
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“Urban Agriculture: Notes from the Field”
Hear from BES member Maya Kosok about some of her experiences in this young and dynamic field as well as how her urban flower growing relates to Ethical Culture.
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“Let’s Get Real About Renewables”
Mass development of renewable resources has been proposed, almost to the exclusion of traditional fossil fuels and nuclear energy.
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“Food Insecurity In Maryland”
One in nine Marylanders struggle with food insecurity, which means they are uncertain where their next meal will come from.
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“Racial Bias in Media Representation”
Film and television are centerpieces of American culture, so why don’t the racial demographics of either match the country at large?
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“Connecting to the Community through Music; a look at Community Bands in Southern Maryland”
Michael Luginbill, a music student at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, recently completed his senior project on community music.
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“Emotions in Ethical Life and Moral Philosophy”
People often associate Western philosophy with a passionless, logical approach to problem solving.
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“Maryland Fauna”
Baltimore park ranger of five years, Mel Tillery will be joined by several live animals native to the Maryland area for a talk about Maryland’s Piedmont ecosystems and the creatures that inhabit them.
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“What Does It Mean to be Evolved?”
Mike Kohut is a cultural anthropologist who has studied creationism in Tennessee.
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“Ethical Humanist Ceremonies and What Makes Them Special”
Come and get a feel for what Ethical Humanist ceremonies are like. After the discussion, Karen Elliott will officiate at a real live wedding ceremony.
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“AEU Assembly Report”
BES members Argentine Craig, Karen Elliott, Kirk Mullen, and Emil Volcheck will report on the 102nd Assembly of the American Ethical Union that took place June 8-11 in Baltimore.
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Labor Day Weekend Picnic
Join us for food, fun, and fellowship following the Sunday program at BES, which will end earlier than usual at approximately 11:30 a.m.
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“Humans, Nature, and the Eclipse of the Sun”
How can we better appreciate the beauty and awe nature offers? How can learn from our environment how to act less like masters of nature and more like stewards of earth?
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“Finding A Better Balance: Diversity in the Arts”
Nate VashtiBlue Couser’s mission is to build a stronger and more diverse arts community in Baltimore City. Ten years ago, Nate created ‘The Artist Exchange’ as a networking tool for his fellow Urban Arts majors at Coppin State Univ.
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“Addiction, Relapse, and Recovery”
September is National Recovery Month – a time to discuss the benefits of prevention, treatment, and recovery for substance use disorders.
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“Viewing Globalization and the Ethical Imperative Through a Humanist Lens”
The presentation will interpret the ethical implications of globalization with a focus on the role of human reason and agency.
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Lunch with Leader Hugh
Are you interested in getting together for a casual lunch with Ethical Culture Leader Hugh Taft-Morales?
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“Electronic Personality and Human Relationships”
Referencing films such as Her, Marjorie Prime, and Bladerunner, Hugh Taft-Morales explores how computer apps, holograms, and robots challenge our concept of social relationships.
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Ethical Culture History and Philosophy
Interested in knowing more about our unique alternative to religion? Come for a presentation and discussion of the history and philosophy of Ethical Culture.
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“Strengthening Our Nation of Immigrants”
Dr. Javad Mohsenian, an immigrant, author and psychiatrist will explore the process of immigrant adoption, adjustment, and contribution to American society, cultural and religious conflicts.
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Walk along Gwynns Falls Trail
Walkers can pick between two paths; the smoother paved way, or the more rugged uphill trek.
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“Enemies and Empathy”
Can we find a way to protect ourselves while deescalating our own “fight or flight” reactions?
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SPOOK-tacular Halloween Pot Luck Dinner and Party
All children, parents, grandparents, BES members/friends are invited to attend a SPOOK-tacular Halloween Pot Luck Dinner and Party.
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“The Ethics of Race and Gender as Experienced by One Black Transgender Woman”
Monica Yorkman will be sharing ways in which colonialism, white supremacy, misogyny, trans-misogyny, and other forms of unethical behaviors impact and inform unhealthy self-views of transgender women of color.
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“Fall Family Festival”
BES comes together in community to share gratitude for all of the things we are fortunate to have in this celebration for all ages.
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Ethical Philosophy Reading Group
CANCELLED TODAY!
Join us every other week on Sundays at 2:00 p.m. in the BES Library to discuss great ethical texts from the history of philosophy!
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“Is Happiness the Goal of Life?”
From ancient Aristotle to contemporary self-help books, many have argued that the goal of life is happiness.
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“Computer Security”
Trevor Vaughan will talk about basic computer security issues. From the reality of having your information out on the web, to home computer safety, and to kids and the internet.
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Ethical Philosophy Reading Group
Join us every other week on Sundays at 2:00 p.m. in the BES Library to discuss great ethical texts from the history of philosophy!
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“Mindful Activism and Peace”
Building peace is not only an act of compassion. To be sustainable, peace building must also be guided by equanimity and thoughtfulness.
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“Working with Fear as a Survivor of Sexual Abuse”
Jean Hargadon Wehner will talk about the way she has used her own fear as the springboard for coping with the memories of the horrific abuse she suffered 45 years ago.
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“Tell Me a Story: Nurturing our Lives through Narratives”
What children’s stories helped shape your life, your sense of self, and your conception of right and wrong?
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Fun with Fictionary, Drinks and Appetizers
Hugh hosts and teaches how to play “Fictionary,” his favorite parlor game, at BES!
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“Thinking about How Lives Matter”
We claim universality in our faith community. We talk about the worth and dignity of every person. It doesn’t matter whether one is black or white, gay or straight. That’s true but it’s also not true.
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HumanLight Celebration and Potluck Dinner
Please join us to celebrate HumanLight with the Baltimore Coalition of Reason on Saturday, December 23.
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“Colloquium: The Season’s Introspection in the Now”
This event is meant to be an expression of free flow of the inner experience a member brings or develops as a result of listening to others.
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“Education: A Vehicle for Change”
There is a growing realization about the importance of instilling a sense of wonder, awe, and appreciation for the natural world, and the ethical values of human beings in childhood, for children’s long-term intellectual curiosity, emotional resiliency, and academic success.
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“The Children’s March: Civilized Queerness”
In celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s lifelong legacy, journey with us as we explore the subtle erased history of Bayard Rustin and Walter Neagle.
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“Does Character Count in Politics?”
Hugh Taft-Morales attempts to unearth some reason for optimism about the future of ethical politics in the United States.
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“Making Sense of Sapiens: Humans and Humanism”
Yuval Noah Harari, in his book Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind proposes that three revolutions – cognitive, agricultural, and scientific – have shaped what we have become as a species.
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Bridges for Those Left Behind
The Baltimore Ethical Society will be hosting a reception on Saturday, February 3, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to support the work of BES member and artist Kimberly Sheridan who paints portraits of Baltimore gun violence victims.
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“Well-Being for the 21st Century – A Crisis for Our Times”
In this discussion, we will explore why holistic well-being for human beings is such a critical issue for our times.
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Freedom: Emancipation Quilted & Stitched
Join BES members and friends to explore Freedom: Emancipation Quilted & Stitched, an exhibition of documentary-style story quilts that celebrate the contributions, lives, and legacies of people of color in Maryland.
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“Reforming Criminal Justice in Maryland – A Returning Citizen’s Perspective”
Nicole Hanson is the Executive Director of Out For Justice. She will discuss her organization’s priorities in the 2018 Maryland legislative session.
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Darwin Day Celebration – Can Humans Guide Evolution?
Celebrate the birthday of Charles Darwin with the Baltimore Coalition of Reason!
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Black Panther Premiere, Discussion, and Party?!
Join BES members and friends as we explore and enjoy our first visit to Wakanda.
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“Organizing for Ethical Behavior”
The recent surge by the #MeToo movement focuses on abuse in the workplace and on a power structure that allows unethical behavior to go both unpunished and even unchallenged.
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“#MeToo, Men, and Responsibility”
It’s a sad fact that the #MeToo movement surprised men more than women. Sexual harassment and assault have scarred the lives of most women in one way or another.
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BES Community Pledge Luncheon
If there’s any event you should attend as a member of the Baltimore Ethical Society, it is this one: the 2018 BES Pledge Luncheon!
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“Housing our Neighbors: Organizing for Housing Justice in Baltimore”
This presentation will share a brief introduction to Housing our Neighbors history and biography and talk about some of the work they have done and what they are currently doing.
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Lunch at Handlebar Cafe
Come join us for witty conversation! (Wittiness not guaranteed.) Carnivore, Vegetarian and Vegan friendly.
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“Making Room for Conservatives”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores the challenge of balancing diverse perspectives and group cohesion within Ethical Culture.
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Book Discussion: Creating Change through Humanism
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for a book discussion of Creating Change through Humanism by Roy Speckhardt, Executive Director of the American Humanist Association.
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“The Hidden Logic of Bad Decisions”
How Evolution and Development Shape Personality and Life Choices
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“An Emerging Ethical Crisis”
Physician Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia of Non-Terminal Psychiatric Patients
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“A Crucible for Humanism: Shaw’s ‘Pygmalion’”
Shaw’s play throws down a gauntlet, challenging trite conceptions of human relations, as well as our sense of self and growth.
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Patapsco State Park Hike
Let’s hope for moderate spring weather and hit the Cascade Falls (easy–moderate) Trail.
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“The Moral Insight”
Ethical Culture was greatly shaped by rationalism, and today Ethical Societies are part of a humanist movement dedicated to reason and skeptical of blind passion and magical thinking.
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Book Discussion: The Common Good
How does the loss of a sense of community put our nation and our world in danger?
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“Defending Democracy: Empowering Voters”
The League of Women Voters of Baltimore City is a nonpartisan political organization which encourages informed and active participation in government.
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Tea or Coffee at Charm Kitty Cafe
Come enjoy a 60 minute reservation and grab a cup of coffee in the company of cats at Charm Kitty Cafe!
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“Poetry of Resiliency”
Participants will be guided in creating an interactive song with hand held percussion instruments.
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Annual Membership Meeting
All members are encouraged to stay after the platform address for our Annual Membership Meeting. We hope you can join us!
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“What Can a Tiny Fish Teach Us About Left-Right Differences in the Brain?”
Marnie Halpern, Ph.D., will review some of the scientific literature on lateralization of brain functions across the animal kingdom
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“Verisimilitude in Living History Portrayals”
Challenging Perspectives, Perceptions and Beliefs Through Character Dramatizations
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NCR Trail Hike
The trail is flat and paved, an easy 4 miles. We can go that far, or simply turn back whenever we care to, the trail goes much further.
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“Are we Owners, Stewards, or Children of the Earth?”
How should we relate to our planet? Ethical Culture, and humanism in general, has been criticized for being too humano-centric.
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“Bye Bye Congress Hotel, Hello VLP!”
The Baltimore Ethical Society is moving to our new home at the Village Learning Place (VLP).
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Baltimore Museum of Art: Sacred Spring
Please join us at the exhibit Sacred Spring: Vienna Secession Posters from the Collection of LeRoy E. Hoffberger and Paula Gately Tillman Hoffberger.
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Morning Coffee & Book Discussion
This month we will be discussing How Democracies Die, by Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt.
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“Remembrance Sunday”
On Remembrance Sunday we gather to remember those who have died in the last year or before, and whose lives and work have made a positive impact.
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Memorial Day Weekend Picnic
Join us for food, fun, and fellowship following the regular Sunday program.
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“What You Always Wanted To Know About BES Finances But Were Too Polite To Ask”
A discussion of the BES budget. Our sources of revenue and what we spend it on. The annual “Tax Letter” to members from the Treasurer and other information that members may request from the Treasurer.
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“Coast to Coast and Host to Host: Our Cross-Country Home-Hospitality Bicycle Adventure”
Max Romano and Maya Kosok will share stories from their 2010 tandem cross-country bike adventure.
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“The Ethical Implications of Thinking Inside of Boxes”
Psychological essentialism is a well-documented cognitive tendency or mental shortcut that underlies racism, sexism, and political tribalism.
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“An Interactive Presentation on Homelessness”
Bonnie “Raven” Lane will present an interactive presentation on homelessness.
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Ignite Baltimore #20
At every Ignite Baltimore, 16 artists, technologists, thinkers and personalities get 5 minutes and 20 slides to spark new conversations and collaborations across cultures and disciplines.
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“AEU 103rd Assembly Report”
BES members will report on this year’s AEU Assembly in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The theme this year was Seeds for the Future: Environmental Justice and Ethical Culture.
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“Metta, Meditation on Boundless Goodwill”
The teaching, the experience, and what cognitive science is learning about the practice.
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“We The People”
BES member Stuart Hirsch will explain what he perceives the role and limits of government power as envisioned by the constitution and federalist papers.
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“Working with People Living with HIV in West Baltimore”
Mary Beth Sodus RD/LD, will share her experiences working with people living with HIV in West Baltimore, white privilege, and what she has learned in her first year of patient care as a Registered Dietitian.
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“Multi-Dimensional Creativity”
Artist Therese Spadaro and poet Karen Elliott team up to get you playing in 3 dimensions.
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“The Ethical Roots of Yoga”
The most common misconception about yoga is that it puts the body in strange positions for the purpose of developing flexibility.
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“Improv at the BES”
A year ago, we started our improvisational theater group on a drop-in basis, open to people having any level of improv experience.
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“Colloquy: The Season’s Introspection in the Now”
This is meant to be an expression of free flow of the inner experience of what a member brings or develops as a result of listening self and others.
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“The Game of Go”
In this talk, Tevis Tsai, BES Vice President, will discuss the two-thousand year history of the game, the humans that play it, and the computer that usurped a world champion.
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“Ethical Culture 101”
Highlights of the history of Ethical Culture from its founding in 1876 by Felix Adler up to the present time will be discussed with particular attention to our relationships with similar movements, such as Humanism.
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“Improving Science Communication: Creating a Culture of Curiosity, Critical Thinking, and Engagement in Science”
Public Health United fosters new partnerships between scientists and the public that they are trying to reach to co-create excellent, evidence-based science communication.
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“Performance Poetry Heals the Grieving Heart”
Join Gayle Danley for an electrifying 40-minute performance featuring her original poetry expressing and sharing her experience with grief and loss.
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Workshop – From Grief to Greatness: Writing and Sharing Poetry to Process Pain
Master Teaching Poet Gayle Danley will lead participants through her fun, simple, four-step process for writing and sharing performance poetry.
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“From Head Shops to Whole Foods: The Rise and Fall of Activist Entrepreneurs”
The talk will look at political activists from the 1960s to today who have started businesses as vehicles for advancing their movements and disseminating their messages.
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Book Discussion: Choosing Civility by P. M. Forni
In these days of discord, is there still room for civility in social interactions? Come for an informal discussion of P. M. Forni’s work.
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“Should Humanists Proselytize?”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores how we can promote our values, grow our movement, and protect individual dignity and autonomy.
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My Trip to Tanzania
Come enjoy a “casual and social slide show” of Hugh Taft-Morales’s first trip to Africa – a safari in Tanzania.
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First International Edgar Allen Poe Festival and Awards
Meet up with fellow BES members and friends to explore the Edgar Allen Poe Festival.
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“Remembering the ‘fog’ of the Vietnam War”
We will watch the opening section of the 2003 documentary “The Fog of War” and then discuss it both as filmmaking and in terms of its political content.
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School Funding Learning Session
Did you know you have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change how Baltimore City schools are supported and funded?
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Roy Zimmerman RiZe Up Tour
Roy Zimmerman is bringing his funny songs about Peace and Justice to Baltimore. On this RiZe Up tour, Roy will bring laughter and encouragement to progressive-minded people who need a lot of both.
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“Is Civility Always Good?”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores “civility” and the ways Ethical Humanists can best embrace it as a virtue.
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“Domestic Violence: Seems Like it is Here to Stay”
October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. This is an opportunity to understand and expose intimate partner violence.
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“What’s Wrong with Selfishness?”
Come hear Hugh Taft-Morales critique the self-destructive nature of selfishness.
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Book Discussion: Choosing Civility by P. M. Forni
For those unable to attend September’s session, Hugh Taft-Morales will host another book discussion of Choosing Civility, P. M. Forni.
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“Baltimore During the Civil War”
Neal McFarland will share some of the fascinating history about Baltimore in the Civil War.
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“Annual Fall Family Festival”
Together we’ll enjoy some old traditions and maybe we can start some new ones, too!
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Book Discussion: Good and Mad: The Revolutionary Power of Women’s Anger
Hugh is hosting a book discussion of Good and Mad: The Revolutionary Power of Women’s Anger, by Rebecca Traister.
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Baltimore American Indian Center 44th Annual Pow-Wow!
BES members and friends will meet inside the Pow-Wow at the Maryland State Fairgrounds at 3:30 for the 4:00 p.m. Grand Entry.
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“Hope, Faith, and Persistence”
Ethical Culture Leader Michael Franch will join us to discuss his belief that we do change the world when our lives exhibit our faith and hope.
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“Self-Hatred, Inner Peace, and Gratitude”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores the question: How do we escape from self-criticism on the one hand and indifference on the other? and more.
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“Legislative Agenda and Ethical Values in Annapolis”
In the rough and tumble world of state politics, it can be difficult to keep your moral compass straight and true. Senator-Elect Mary Washington will share her legislative agenda for Maryland and how she applies her ethical values in Annapolis.
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“Do You Listen to Your Conscience?”
What is this thing we call conscience? Although it is clearly aroused when we witness injustice, can we nurture it so that it more consistently and smoothly guides our behavior?
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Personal Ethical Evolution Workshop
As part of Hugh’s 2018–2019 focus on personal growth, he is offering a “Personal Ethical Evolution Workshop” on Sunday, December 9th at 3:00 p.m.
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“Harm Reduction & the War on Drugs”
This interactive discussion will cover the racist history and harms of the war on drugs, ethical arguments in both upholding and fighting this “war,” and strategies to reduce some of the harms.
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HumanLight Celebration and Potluck Dinner
Please join us to celebrate HumanLight with the Baltimore Coalition of Reason on Sunday, December 23, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at First Unitarian!
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“Anger: Women, Men, and Me Too”
Reflecting on Rebecca Traister’s new book, Good and Mad: The Revolutionary Power of Women’s Anger, Hugh Taft-Morales explores the history of anger and how it is manifesting in women, men, and himself.
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“J20: Resistance in the Age of Trump”
The lessons of J20 come together at the intersection of the First Amendment, anti-fascism, and the American criminal code.
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“The Encampment for Citizenship: An Experience in Participatory Democracy”
The Encampment for Citizenship, founded in 1946 by Ethical Culture Leader Algernon D. Black and Alice (“Nanny”) Pollitzer, a prominent civic leader, offered an opportunity for “young adults of many religious, racial, social and national backgrounds” to learn “the principles and techniques of citizenship… through lived experience.”
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Book discussion of Before the Mayflower: A History of Black America
To mark the 400th year since Africans were brought against their will to the British Colonies, Hugh Taft-Morales will host a book discussion of Before the Mayflower: A History of Black America by Lerone Bennett Jr.
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“The Moral Arc of Justice: 400 Years of Shifting Narratives and Sparking Genius”
Dr. Whitehead will discuss how the arc that Dr. King and Theodore Parker talked about is still bending and moving slowly toward justice.
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Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade
Join BES and march in Baltimore’s MLK Parade!
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“The Weight of History”
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and February’s Black History Month, Hugh Taft-Morales will explore the weight of history.
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Book discussion on Good and Mad by Rebecca Traister
Our leader Hugh is co-hosting with member Ann Litke at her home a book discussion of Good and Mad: The Revolutionary Power of Women’s Anger, by Rebecca Traister
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“Frederick Douglass and the Ethics of Equality”
Frederick Douglass is known as an abolitionist, advocate of racial equality and feminist supporter. However, his life is a statement about the practice of ethics as a vocation, avocation and provocation.
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“Ethical Eating”
Discussions about the food we eat can be intense and divisive. Hugh Taft-Morales shares his unfinished personal journey into this ethical thicket.
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Evolution and Sharks! Celebrate Darwin’s Birthday!
Celebrate the birthday of Charles Darwin with the Baltimore Coalition of Reason!
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“Racial Justice Beyond the Self – a two-part talk”
Join us for this two-part talk: “A Time When I Stood Up” with celeste doaks and “A Guest in the Conversation” with Dr. Karl Henzy.
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“Learning from Frederick Douglass”
Hugh Taft-Morales honors Black History Month by exploring how Frederick Douglass can teach humanists principles and habits to enrich our lives today and contribute to a better world.
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BES Community Pledge Luncheon
If there’s any event you should attend as a member of the Baltimore Ethical Society, it is this one: the 2018 BES Pledge Luncheon!
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“The Shifting Impact of Global Migration on Baltimore”
Pat Shannon Jones will share some stories and some hard facts about migration, resettlement, and hope in Baltimore today.
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“What Do You Really Own Anyway?”
What is it to “own” something? Is it just to have exclusive access to, or control over, a resource? How did the concept of “ownership” arise?
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“Racial Justice Unpacked: Healthcare as a Racial Issue”
In this talk, we will present key insights into how health equity has to be the center of any change process for communities.
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“Ethics, Money, and Private Property” at the Impact Hub
Join Hugh Taft-Morales at the Impact Hub (10 East North Ave.) for a presentation and discussion of “Ethics, Money, and Private Property.”
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“The Moral Necessity of Geo-Engineering”
Climate change and associated global warming and sea level rise are now on the near term horizon.
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“Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five“
Fifty years ago to the day, Kurt Vonnegut’s best-known, most critically acclaimed novel was published.
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“The Truth Must Dazzle”
There is power coiled within poetry. Some of it is quite accessible, some falls into the hard-nut-to-crack category, and some unspools with a minimum of effort.
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“Pride and Shame: The Ups and Downs of Sexual Identity”
For many people, sexual identity and expression are an important part of life. Shouldn’t Ethical Humanism support these people as sources of energy, joy, and pride!
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Book discussion on American Dialogue: The Founders and Us
Hugh Taft-Morales hosts a discussion of Chapters 1 and 2 of American Dialogue: The Founders and Us, by Joseph J. Ellis (2018).
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“Community Land Trusts: Tools for Uplifting Community Values”
The Charm City Land Trusts is a resident-led organization designed to hold land together and cultivate a neighborhood vision that promotes the values, prioritizes the needs, and creates a path for community ownership of its residents.
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“Solitude: The Art of Being Alone”
Many find solitude a source of inspiration, creativity, and renewal. How can we better appreciate the place of solitude in our lives?
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Annual Membership Meeting
All members are encouraged to stay after the platform address for our Annual Membership Meeting. We hope you can join us!
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“Environmental Benefits of Native Plants”
This presentation is about beautiful native plants and their environmental benefits. Participants will learn how to select the right plant for the right place and how to avoid invasive species.
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“Be Here Now”
So much of our lives are lived in distraction. We are constantly reacting to the world around us. We get sucked into regrets of the past or anxiety about the future.
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“Baltimore Must Throw Out Incineration”
Baltimore’s trash incinerator(s) have for many years been the paramount polluter of our air. Ownership has changed but the incineration industry has not; it profits at the expense of residents it claims to serve.
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Roy Zimmerman RiZe Up Tour
Roy Zimmerman is bringing his funny songs about Peace and Justice to Baltimore. On this RiZe Up tour, Roy will bring laughter and encouragement to progressive-minded people who need a lot of both.
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Remembrance Sunday
Memorial Day Sunday offers BES members and guests a chance to remember those who have died and celebrate the gifts they gave us.
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Potential Futures with Autonomous Vehicles
Autonomous vehicles are coming and will reshape America in the same way the adoption of manual vehicles did.
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American Humanist Association Annual Conference (by VTC)
The American Humanist Association annual conference will be live-streamed.
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Field Trip: American Visionary Art Museum
An exhibition focusing on what might be humanity’s most essential performance art — the transformative and complex art of parenting.
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Harm Reduction and Healthcare in Baltimore and Abroad
This past year, Natanya Robinowitz received a Fulbright Fellowship. She promptly moved her family to Catalonia, Spain to study the public health system for people who use drugs.
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Expanded and Improved Medicare for All
Why does the US have such a convoluted and costly health insurance system? What does single payer healthcare really mean?
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Sunday Funday Family Event
Please join us for our first family Sunday Funday immediately following platform. Grillables and children’s activities included. All are welcome!
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American Ethical Union Assembly Recap
BES Members who attended the Annual AEU Assembly will present their experience of the conferenceans share what other members and societies are doing to Reclaim Democracy.
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Money, Power, and Freedom: Meditations on Ethics and Political Economy
An examination of some of the ethical dimensions of our capitalist economy.
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2nd Sunday Family Meet-Ups
CANCELED – We apologize for any inconvenience, but this month’s 2nd Sunday Family Meetup has been canceled.
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Weight Discrimination
This lecture proposes we distance ourselves from focusing on the “goods” and the “bads” associated with weight related issues.
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Who Owns the Rights to Your Likeness?
With the advent of the Internet, your photographic likeness can spread all over the world in an instant. Who owns the rights to your likeness?
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The 2019 Worldwide Threat Assessment
Each year the Director of National Intelligence presents to Congress the Worldwide Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community.
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Thinking Creatively in 3 Dimensions
Combine your problem solving skills with length, width, and height in a limited amount of time (bringing a fourth dimension into it – wow!).
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Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Teaser
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a program formulated at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center to assist individuals in exploring their own inner resources for self-care to manage stress and pain in their lives.
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Ethical Dilemma
It’s time to have some fun! Learn “The Secrets of Improv” and, if you want, join the members of the Ethical Dilemma improv troupe as we “Make Sense Out of Nonsense.”
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Felix Adler Was Not a Humanist
Ethical Culture founder, Felix Adler, was not a humanist and he prevented Ethical Culture from identifying with the Humanists while he was alive.
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Labor Day Weekend Picnic
Join us for food, fun, and fellowship following the Sunday program at BES, which will end earlier than usual at approximately 11:30 a.m.
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“Baltimore Must Throw Out Incineration”
Baltimore’s trash incinerator(s) have for many years been the paramount polluter of our air. Ownership has changed but the incineration industry has not; it profits at the expense of residents it claims to serve.
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“Cultivating Gratitude”
Intolerance is growing. Our political world is a mess. We are poisoning our biosphere. At times like this, it is easy to forget gratitude.
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Navigators USA Scouting
We are looking forward to starting this year! It is sure to be full of strengthening connections, going on fun adventures, and challenging yourself!
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“Courage, Imagination and the Challenge of Art”
Evocative art (and perhaps especially poetry) often pushes us to ask uncomfortable questions about ways we have framed our understandings about ourselves and our world.
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“Racism, Peace, and Climate Justice”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores the intersection between racism, peace, and climate justice. He will share some of the insights garnered by the NAACP in their Environmental and Climate Justice Program begun 10 years ago.
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“Humanist Spirituality” at the Impact Hub
Join Hugh Taft-Morales at the Impact Hub (10 East North Ave.) for a presentation and discussion of “Humanist Spirituality.”
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“Annual Fall Family Festival”
Together we’ll enjoy some old traditions and maybe we can start some new ones, too!
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“The Uses of Humor”
What are the ethical uses of humor? Humor is fun. It can provide important cathartic release of tension and bond groups together. Humor can help us keep our perspective. But humor can also mock and degrade others.
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“The Encampment for Citizenship: An Experience in Participatory Democracy”
The Encampment for Citizenship, founded in 1946 by Ethical Culture Leader Algernon D. Black and Alice (“Nanny”) Pollitzer, a prominent civic leader, offered an opportunity for “young adults of many religious, racial, social and national backgrounds” to learn “the principles and techniques of citizenship… through lived experience.”
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Charles Village Brunch
We will not be hosting a regular platform. Instead, the Village Learning Place is hosting the annual Charles Village Brunch this week and all are invited to attend.
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“Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle – When Baltimore Awakes”
Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle (LBS) is a grassroots think-tank which advances the public policy interest of Black people, in Baltimore, through: youth leadership development, political advocacy, and autonomous intellectual innovation.
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“Good and Evil”
What are we talking about when we speak of “good” and “evil”? The dynamic struggle between good and evil has been examined through art, literature, and philosophy for millenniums, but there’s no consensus about the meaning of the terms.
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“Intent of the Constitution”
What did the Founders intend when they created a new government in 1787? There is much to comment on but the the talk will focus mainly on the current issues that relate to the original Constitution such as impeachments, emoluments, and the role of the President.
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“Urgency and Radicalism”
How urgent are the crises we face? How radical should our responses be? What do different answers to these questions do to the cohesion of communities? How should we react to extremism expressed by those who feel their very survival is threatened?
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“Empowering Plant-Based Accessibility in All Communities”
How urgent are the crises we face? How radical should our responses be? What do different answers to these questions do to the cohesion of communities? How should we react to extremism expressed by those who feel their very survival is threatened?
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“The Hidden Joy of Serving: Appreciating Their Story”
When you serve other people in need, one of the best gifts is to appreciate their story. Whether at a shelter, a youth program, or a street corner, it’s so important to listen to others with caring attention.
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“Ethics and Dentistry”
Dr. Eric Katkow will share anecdotes about his experience as a member of the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners. Learn about the consequences dentists have faced when poor ethical decision-making occurred.
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“Solstice Reflections and Celebrations”
For all of recorded history, human beings have marked this time of the year – sometimes by calling on gods to bring back the sun that nourishes life, and other times by gathering together to stoke our communal hearth.
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These Truths: A History of the United States Book Discussion
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for a discussion of Chapters 13-16 and the Epilogue of These Truths: A History of the United States by Jill Lapore. This final section covers selected historical themes between 1946-2016.
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HumanLight Celebration and Potluck Dinner
Please join us to celebrate HumanLight with the Baltimore Coalition of Reason on Monday, December 23, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at First Unitarian!
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Annual Pancake Breakfast
As the year draws to a close, we celebrate with a hearty breakfast and time to connect. Pancakes are on flap, with a variety of expert chefs turning out to turn things over. The Pancake Breakfast is free and open to all.
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“Productive Aging: Octogenarians Passing On Our Wisdom”
Four panelists will address questions such as: What are the best decisions I made in my life? and What one choice would I change, if I could do it over again?
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“‘Somebodyness’ and Inherent Worth”
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr., Hugh Taft-Morales explores “somebodyness” – a term that King used to ground his dedication to advancing civil and human rights. How is this concept similar to, and different from, other approaches to individual human beings?
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“Skill Share” at the Impact Hub
Come join Hugh Taft-Morales as he hosts the first of his “On Good Behavior.” Free and open to the public. Please register with Eventbright and share the link with your friends!
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“Can I be Black and Humanist?”
Christian Hayden, member of the Philadelphia Ethical Society, took a humanist pilgrimage to Ghana 2015 – 2016 where, while serving, he engaged with ideas on what it meant to be humanist and black.
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“Mr. Republican Rolls in his Grave”
The Baltimore Ethical Society does not endorse any political candidate or political party. Analyzing the transformation of the Repubican Party over the last seventy years, however, seems fair game! Leader Hugh Taft-Morales explores the values and policies of the Republican Party regarding how the state can best serve its citizens.
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“Sense of Belonging: What I Learned from Studying Suicide”
Twenty-five years ago I stood on a sidewalk in Baltimore and decided to take my life. I set a date and told no-one, until a chance conversation with a friend saved me and set me on a path to a joyful and grateful life.
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“Just Mercy”
In honor of Black History Month, Hugh Taft-Morales explores both a cruel and unjust criminal justice system that hits particularly hard on people of color and the efforts of one person to right the scales of justice.
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Celebrate Da Vinci and Darwin!
Celebrate the birthday of Charles Darwin with the Baltimore Coalition of Reason!
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“Organizing: Creating Relationships for Transformational Change”
We will begin the process of community change by listening to create opportunities for transformational real outcomes.
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“Deed Before Creed” and Ethical Non-Theism
Hugh Taft-Morales explores the prioritizing of action over metaphysics that makes Ethical Humanism a lived philosophy.
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BES Community Pledge Luncheon
A Vision for Our Future – 2020! If there’s any event you should attend as a member of the Baltimore Ethical Society, it is this one: the 2020 BES Pledge Luncheon!
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“The Ethics of the Overwhelmed (Trump makes me tired, how about you?)”
It is hard to care about government ethics these days. There’s too much. Which news stories should we care about and which ones are simply designed to get us all riled up?
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“7 Deadly Sins”
Most humanists reject the concept of “sin” as it relates to divine judgment. Many liberal religions embrace the idea that human nature, as flawed as it is, is basically good.
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CANCELLED – “Radical Positivity: An Ethical Humanist Approach”
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, BES will not hold platform on Sunday, March 15th nor Sunday, March 22nd.
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Ethical Dilemma (Our Improv Group)
We are a drop in group and welcome anyone at any level or with any amount of experience.
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SMART Recovery
SMART Recovery (Self-Management And Recovery Training) is a free peer-support group for individuals who have chosen to abstain, or are considering abstinence from any type of addictive behaviors (substances or activities).
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CANCELLED – “What is Humanism?”
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, BES will not hold platform on Sunday, March 15th nor Sunday, March 22nd.
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SMART Recovery
SMART Recovery (Self-Management And Recovery Training) is a free peer-support group for individuals who have chosen to abstain, or are considering abstinence from any type of addictive behaviors (substances or activities).
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CANCELLED – “Listening to the World”
Alan C. Reese will speak on the project and the manuscript, A Symphony for Stone Flutes, and read selected entries.
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Our Golden Rule
Presented via Zoom: Society members will automatically receive login details via email. Friends of the society are welcome to request access by emailing president@bmorethical.org.
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Tabletop Game Night
Join us in the library as we play a variety of unusual pen and paper roleplaying games.
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“Good Intentions are Simply Not Enough”
What is more important is the impact your actions have on others and what you do about it. Through examples and musings, Randy will elaborate on this idea.
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“The Joy and Perseverance of John Lewis”
As the whirlwind of current events threaten to tear apart our foundation, let us remember some lessons taught by someone Barack Obama eulogized as “a man of pure joy and unbreakable perseverance.”
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“The Turning of the Year”
This is a time of a turning of the year. Rosh Hashanah or the New Year in the Jewish calendar. Fall Equinox. A mid-harvest festival time. Mabon in Celtic and pagan cultures.
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“Environmental Info Wars”
Michael Moore has a well-earned reputation for rocking the boat – for challenging the NRA, the healthcare industry, General Motors, and capitalism in general.
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“Being Mortal”
Few books so effectively combine the mundane and the profound as does Atul Gawande’s Being Mortal. It bemoans the fact that technological society has lost touch with “the art of dying.”
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“Police Reform and Restructuring Law Enforcement”
Though police reform has been in the spotlight recently, the need for restructuring law enforcement has been an ongoing issue for many years.
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“Mathematics – The Human Connection”
Music, Literature, Mathematics. I believe that it is the same muse that informs them all. The focus of this talk is on the aesthetic value of mathematics and the fact that too many of us “miss the boat.”
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“Film, Emotions, Us, and Them”
Film has the ability to bring people together and to drive them apart. Ken Burn’s The Civil War portrayed the conflict in a way that highlighted our shared identity as Americans.
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“Sacred Democracy”
For many Ethical Humanists, the collective effort to assure that our system of government honors the worth of every person is as close we get to a “sacred” quest. In this context, the term holds only secular meaning indicating veneration of the democratic process.
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Post-Election Coffee with Hugh
Baltimore Ethical Society members are invited to join Hugh for a virtual coffee discussion as we gather for mutual support in the wake of election day.
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“Mediation: ‘We’re Looking for Trouble’”
This interactive talk will focus on the work of the Baltimore Community Mediation Center and the various ways the Center addresses many types of conflict.
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Post-Election One-Week-After Gathering
Join Hugh and members of Ethical Societies in Baltimore and Philadelphia as we process where we are regarding election results one week after election day.
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“Understanding ‘Defund the Police'”
You’ve likely heard the calls for defunding the police, during this summer’s demonstrations against police killings. You may agree and wonder how we could get there, or you may think that defunding goes too far, or you may just wonder what it means.
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Discussion of Alex Vitale’s “Defund the Police”
Join Hugh Taft-Morales and members of the Philly and Baltimore Ethical Societies as we discuss Alex Vitale’s “Defund the Police.”
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“Reflecting on Unconscious Bias”
Unconscious bias (otherwise known as implicit bias) can be defined as prejudices or stereotypes that most people hold, even though they are outside of conscious awareness.
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“Ethical Culture, Psychotherapy, and My Grandmother the Spy”
The Victorian Felix Adler was not a big fan of therapeutic exploration of the psyche; he resisted what he considered a narcissistic invasion of the private world. Today, however, counseling is an important part of Ethical Culture.
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“Environmental Justice and Environmental Racism”
What is environmental racism? Why DO the most polluting industries tend to end up in certain parts of town? Isn’t it just about class? Learn about the realities of environmental racism.
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“Reading Women”
This talk is a confession, a commitment, and an exploration. Hugh Taft-Morales confesses that his reading habits have fallen prey to centuries of systemic neglect of women writers.
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“The Case for Reparations”
Lea draws on the article, “The Case for Reparations” by Ta-Nehisi Coates. Coates argues that America’s prosperity is tied to its history of slavery and racism.
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HumanLight Celebration
Join us on Wednesday, December 23rd, to celebrate HumanLight, the Humanist celebration of the Winter holiday season!
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“Lessons and Resolutions”
What lessons did 2020 teach you? What resolutions do you have for the new year? How can we bring out the best from a dumpster fire of a year full of struggle and anxieties?
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Winter Festival
We come together virtually to celebrate the season, enjoy a new take on a few old BES traditions, and look forward to the new year.
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“Indigenizing Environmental Justice”
How does the indigenous perspective and history inform how we think about environmental ethics and environmental justice?
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“1619 and 2021: Where We Were and Where We are Going”
This talk will be a brief summary of the 1619 Project and a more in-depth analysis of the project’s place in our contemporary society.
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Zoom Inauguration Watch Party
Join Hugh and members of the Baltimore and Philadelphia Ethical Society for a Zoom Inauguration Watch Party.
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“Lift Every Voice and Sing”
Hugh Taft-Morales remembers how conscious he was of racial identity the first time he was in a multiracial group singing “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” nick-named “The Black National Anthem.”
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The Bluest Eye Book Discussion
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for the first of his twelve 2021 book discussions of books by women writers. In January, Hugh will lead a dialogue about The Bluest Eye, by Toni Morrison.
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“Replacing Magical Thinking with Rational Discourse”
How can freethinkers help restore democracy?
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The Bluest Eye Book Discussion
This will be a joint Philly-Baltimore discussion about The Bluest Eye, by Toni Morrison.
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“Are You A Citizen or Are You A Consumer?”
Many people believe being a citizen means paying your taxes, obeying the laws, and casting a ballot every four years. But is that all we really ought to do, transact with America like a consumer?
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“Thanks to Pandemic Responders”
Almost a year into our pandemic crisis, millions of Americans have responded by working harder than ever and putting themselves in harm’s way.
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Caste Non-fiction Book Discussion
Hugh Taft-Morales and members of the Philadelphia and Baltimore Ethical Societies will discuss this important new book.
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“Clear and Present Danger”
An Environmental Engineer’s Reflections on Climate Change, Sustainability, and Leadership
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Little Women Book Discussion
As part of Hugh’s year-long “Women of Fiction Book Discussion,” our second installment focuses on Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott.
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“Time Warps: The Pandemic’s Effect on Our Sense of Duration”
The pandemic has done a lot to affect our perception of time, but not all people experience the warping the same way – for some time has moved slowly, for others quickly, and for many they feel both ways!
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Little Women Book Discussion
As part of Hugh’s year-long “Women of Fiction Book Discussion,” our second installment focuses on Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott.
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“Climate Change, Ecology and the Links Between Human Health and the Environment”
Biologist, author, and cancer survivor, Sandra Steingraber, Ph.D. writes about climate change, ecology, and the links between human health and the environment.
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Memorial Service for Anneke Corbitt
Join BES members and friends of Anneke to remember and celebrate her life.
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“Freethought Feminist Helen Hamilton Gardener”
In honor of Women’s History Month, explore the life of freethinker and feminist Helen Hamilton Gardner.
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Caste Non-fiction Book Discussion
Non-fiction Book Discussion on the second half of Caste, by Isbel Wilkerson.
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“East Towson: From Jim Crow to Black Lives Matter”
Historic East Towson, an African-American community unique to Baltimore County and the nation, is a thriving, tight-knit enclave adjacent to Towson’s urban core.
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“Partisanship, Fascism and the Common Good”
Defining Public Ethics After the January 6th Insurrection – A special All Society platform featuring Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-MD)
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Their Eyes Were Watching God Non-fiction Book Discussion
BES members discuss Their Eyes Were Watching God, Sunday, March 28, 4:00PM.
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“Poetry and the American Dream”
Join poet and teaching artist Linda Joy Burke to read, listen to and discuss poetry.
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“Spring Festival”
This Easter, come celebrate the arrival of spring in humanist style with poetry, music, and communal gathering on Zoom!
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“Sunrise Movement”
Members of Sunrise Movement Baltimore will introduce you to Sunrise Movement.
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Book discussion: Mrs. Dalloway, by Virginia Woolf
Join Hugh for another installment of fiction by women authors when he explores Virginia Woolf’s 1925 classic, Mrs. Dalloway.
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“Rethinking Personal Wealth: Taboos and Transparency”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores why so few people feel comfortable even discussing their personal wealth.
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“Welcome to the Social Dreaming Space”
In this interactive platform, we will be guided through an exploratory journey of shared dreams.
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“Being Wrong: The Virtues of Humility and Doubt”
We all like to be right, but should we get more comfortable being wrong?
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“Youth of Ethical Societies” All Society Platform
Hear from the teens of Youth of Ethical Societies (YES) about this year’s Conference.
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“Building Community in a World of Difference”
“Any future vision which can encompass all of us, by definition, must be complex and expanding, not easy to achieve.”
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Book discussion: The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
Join Hugh for another installment of fiction by women authors when he explores Isabel Allende’s first novel, The House of the Spirits.
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“Remembrance Day”
In this program we will come together to share our memories of people who we cared about or who influenced us who died over the last year or before.
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Book discussion: The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
Join Hugh for another installment of fiction by women authors when he explores Isabel Allende’s first novel, The House of the Spirits.
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“Judging Another as Good or Bad”
Attend a Zoom event hosted by the Interfaith Institute of Long Island (IFI) on “Judging Another as Good or Bad.”
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“How Do We Respond to the Climate Crisis?”
Despite evidence to the contrary, many continually refer to the climate crisis as a distant threat…In fact, the climate crisis is already upon us.
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“The Right to Gun Ownership”
What is the constitutional basis for the second amendment and what is meant by it? How did the Federalist Papers envision guns in the hands of the people?
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“Reflections on Parable of the Sower and Octavia Butler”
Hugh Taft-Morales will share his comments about, and solicit member reflections on Octavia Butler’s book.
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Parable of the Sower Book Discussion
As a follow up to the platform presentation of June 27, Hugh will host a summer book discussion in his series of fiction books by women authors.
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“Ethical, Social, and Governance (ESG) Investing”
This talk will discuss the history of ESG investing, current trends and policies within ESG funds, and how to invest in ESG funds.
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“Theatrical Solutions to Fast Fashion”
Addressing the problem of fast fashion through the lens of theatrical costuming. We all get dressed every morning. How can we do it more ethically and mindfully?
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“How Members Responded to the COVID-19 Pandemic”
BES members will share how they have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic through the LetsBMore time bank, mutual aid, and other projects.
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“Climate Crisis ‘StoryCorps’”
Earth Stories, a Colloquy project launched by the BES Green Team, presentsThe BES Climate ‘StoryCorps’.
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“Sources of Hope: Values from Our Past as We Build the Future”
The 106th Assembly of the American Ethical Union has addressed “the whole truth about America” where history has been triumphant for some and traumatic for others.
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“Intense Covid 19: Long Haulers Syndromes”
I spent 17 days intubated, how my life changed then, and going forward.
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“Share Your Favorite Poem Day”
April may be National Poetry Month in the U.S., World Poetry Day is March 21st, and Poetry Day in the UK is in October but we can enjoy poetry any time we want.
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“Anti-racist Work in Ethical Culture”
I’ve been on an intentional journey of learning how to dismantle white supremacy within my own life for several years.
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“Reflections On Graduation”
Join Jé Exodus Hooper as we discuss life’s graduation and a path that leads into a site of memory.
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“Calling Out the Outrageous Lie”
Joe Biden won the 2020 election fair and square, but the outrageous lie that the election was rigged fueled the January 6 insurrection at the Capitol.
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Lunch with Hugh – The Magic of Humanism!
Come gather for informal lunch conversations with Leader Hugh Taft-Morales at a place to be determined.
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“Privacy in the Digital Age”
Privacy is gravely endangered in the digital age – and we, the spied upon, collude in the effort.
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“The Department of Peacebuilding”
Ever since the Department of War was created in 1789, the United States followed an all-too typical strategy: prepare for war to keep the peace.
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Start of Fall Ethical Culture Book Discussion
For those wanting to know more about the history and philosophy of Ethical Culture, join Hugh Taft-Morales for six Sunday meetings when we discuss Ed Ericson’s, The Humanist Way.
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Lunch with Hugh – The Magic of Humanism!
Come gather for informal lunch conversations with Leader Hugh Taft-Morales at a place to be determined.
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Years of Wonder Book Discussion
Too soon? Not what you’d pick after a year and a half dealing with a pandemic? Well, Hugh Taft-Morales was nevertheless lured into reading Years of Wonder: A Novel of the Plague.
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“Colloquy: What Does It Mean for BES To Be an Actively Anti-Racist Organization?”
Colloquy inspires participants to raise awareness of their own views, emotions and values.
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“Celebrating Courage”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores the virtue of courage and the reality of vulnerability, and how they can help us lead a more ethical life.
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“Letting the Past Inform the Present: One Professor’s Journey”
The concept of “balance” in the traditional sense has ceased to be useful when it serves to obscure present dangers.
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“The Persistence of Ghosts”
As children once again prepare to trick or treat, Hugh Taft-Morales explores some of the history and culture surrounding some scary superstitions.
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The Humanist Way Book Discussion
Hugh Taft-Morales continues his group exploration of The Humanist Way, by Ethical Culture Leader Ed Ericson.
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Hottentot Venus Book Discussion
Join Hugh Taft-Morales and members of BES for a discussion of his October fiction book by a woman author: Barbara Chase-Riboud’s Hottentot Venus.
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“The Johns Hopkins Police Department”
My presentation reflects my perspectives as a public health researcher, and personal identity as a Black woman who works and lives in the proposed JHPD catchment.
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Hottentot Venus Book Discussion
If you missed the October discussion, Join Hugh Taft-Morales’ November discussion of this fiction book by a woman author: Barbara Chase-Riboud’s Hottentot Venus.
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Continued discussion of When They Call You a Terrorist
Join with members of other Ethical Societies in a small group discussion of When They Call You a Terrorist.
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“Humanists and Prayer: Who Are You Talking To?”
Hugh Taft-Morales explores the civic omnipresence of prayer and suggests ways to deal with it with integrity.
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On Good Behavior
Join Hugh Taft-Morales as we continue this fall’s series of “On Good Behavior.”
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The Buddha in the Attic Book Discussion
November’s discussion of a fiction book by a woman is a short PEN/Faulkner award-winning work by Julie Otsuka, The Buddha in the Attic.
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“Gratitude and Thanksgiving”
Hugh Taft-Morales hosts a celebration of gratitude. Join him on Zoom for some mindfulness, music, readings and reflections of gratitude!
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Tree of Knowledge Program
Join Margaret Downey and Hugh Taft-Morales for their annual Tree of Knowledge program.
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“The Voices of Women”
Come hear what Hugh learned from immersing himself in the works of woman novelists.
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The Humanist Way Book Discussion
Hugh Taft-Morales continues his group exploration of The Humanist Way, by Ethical Culture Leader Ed Ericson.
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On Good Behavior: Winning and Losing
Are there ethical ways to win and lose? Do adults engaged in high stake contests maintain the “good sport” habits we’re taught growing up?
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HumanLight Celebration
Join us on Saturday, December 18, to celebrate HumanLight, the Humanist celebration of the Winter holiday season!
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Weird News of 2021, and other Fun!
Join Hugh Taft-Morales and Philadelphia Ethical Society member Leigh Buchanan for another end-of-the-year “weird news” quiz and other fun.
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“Walking the Valley”
My performance will include poetry, quotes from my recent letter to the press on the occasion of Barbados’ assumption of republican status, and more.
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Dear Committee Members Book Discussion
Join Hugh in discussing this winner of the Thurber Prize for American Humor.
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“The Beloved Community”
How can the divisiveness tearing at the fabric of our communities, especially surrounding issues of racism and oppression, be overcome?
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“The Dream and the Reality”
Martin Luther King was a dreamer. What are the experiences that led to the development of his philosophy?
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“Forgiveness”
How should humanists approach forgiveness so that it elevates our quality of life and strengthens our commitment to ethical living?
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“W.E.B. Du Bois: Will the Truth Set You Free?”
The author of the address is Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois, who spoke to a group at the New York Society for Ethical Culture on February 7, 1949.
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“Reconstruction and Saving Democracy”
After the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln hoped to bind the nation’s wounds. “Let ‘em up easy,” he told the Union Army, trying to discourage retribution.
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Sentientism, Activism, and Personal Growth
In this American Ethical Union Salon, Hugh Taft-Morales, Amy Halpern-Laff, and Jamie Woodhouse will explore the opportunities and challenges of “sentientism,” a worldview that demands moral consideration of all creatures experiencing feelings and sensations.
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“Creative Social Change”
In two nonconsecutive terms as mayor of Bogata, Columbia, starting in 1995, Antanas Mockus used non-traditional cultural and creative methods to induce positive social change.
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Killing Rage Book Discussion
Hugh Taft-Morales and Argentine Craig host two discussions of a book by bell hooks that energized a generation of activists: Killing Rage: Ending Racism.
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“The Edge Effect – Diversity and Creativity”
Join Leader-in-Training Louise Jett as she explores diversity and creativity during her talk on the edge effect.
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“Dogs, Cats, and Sentientism”
Animals have long supported human life, from their non-consensual role in our diets to their loving place in our homes.
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“Joy of Living”
The French call it “Joie de vivre.” It’s first found in the pantheistic writings of Jules Michelet.
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Killing Rage Book Discussion – Part 2
Hugh Taft-Morales and Argentine Craig host the second of two discussions of a book by bell hooks that energized a generation of activists: Killing Rage: Ending Racism.
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“Intergenerational Climate Justice”
What do young environmental activists feel and think about the global catastrophe they’ve inherited?
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Warmth: Coming of Age at the End of Our World Book Discussion
Following up on our March 26 gathering, we’ll continue discussing Daniel Sherrell’s book, Warmth: Coming of Age at the End of Our World which inspired Hugh’s April 10th morning address.
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“Believe that I am what I say I am”
Personal identity is…well, personal. It belongs to the person whose identity is in question.
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“Mental Illness, Stigma and Positive Change”
Mental illness affects 1 in 5 individuals and families directly – and many more through their jobs, in their neighborhood, their workplace, their taxes, and their faith and other communities.
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BES Two-Hour Social
Join Hugh Taft-Morales for a casual in-person gathering, location to be announced.
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Unthinkable: Trauma, Truth, and the Trials of American Democracy Book Discussion
Join Hugh for a discussion of this important and poignant book by a new light in American politics.
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Unthinkable: Trauma, Truth, and the Trials of American Democracy Book Discussion
Join Hugh for a discussion of this important and poignant book by a new light in American politics.
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“Remembrance Day”
In our traditional Remembrance Day celebration together, we take time to think and share about those who are no longer with us but whose lives made a difference in ours.