Glass City Humanist

We take a very deep dive into the topic of White Christian Nationalism and why it is an existential threat to the religious freedom for all of us. Then we hear from keynote speaker Dr. Anthea Butler at the recent Summit for Religious Freedom, who well versed on the danger we are facing. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch [01:00] What is Christian Nationalism? [16:55] Keynote speech by Dr. Anthea Butler --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

We update a school busing dispute with implications regarding church and state separation. We also look into the expansion of school vouchers in Ohio, revealing that the program primarily benefits higher-income families already in private schools rather than helping low-income students in struggling public schools. 00:50 School Busing Dispute Update 15:45 Ohio School Vouchers Not Helping With School Choice Show Notes Get our free newsletter Check out our merch and support the show --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

A recent survey of people and their religion saw an increase in the number of people who picked 'no preference'. These 'nones' make up over 20% of the population yet only 1 in 5 chooses to label themselves an atheist/agnostic/humanist. What can we do to help increase the number of Humanists? One solution advocated by some in the Humanist movement is to have Humanist congregations - Humanist churches. It is believed that people are looking for rituals, meeting on Sundays, singing hymns, and other outreaches that some believe only non-dogmatic versions of church can provide. Glass City Humanist host Douglas Berger, who has almost 30 years experience with the Humanist movement, disagrees. While some people are looking for the church experience without the supernatural dogma, many others aren't and a vibrant Humanist movement needs to cater to the needs of many different people in different ways. Douglas believes going to church on Sunday is not only an old model it's also dying even in the sectarian religious communities. Humanists should be more open to other opportunities to grow our numbers instead of being tethered to a building. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

Have you ever walked into a room and felt like the only one who didn't belong? That's the feeling DEI initiatives aim to eradicate, and today, we're peeling back the layers of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, explaining its critical importance against a backdrop of legislative pushback here in Ohio. As universities come under fire, we debunk myths that paint DEI as a one-sided agenda. Within our humanist values, we argue for communities where everyone, irrespective of race or other identifiers, is welcomed without the barriers of special privileges. In another thought-provoking segment, we tackle the complex controversy of the recent Alabama court case involving in vitro fertilization (IVF) and personhood. We point out that Ohio's new Reproductive Rights Act draws sharp lines in the ethical sand concerning IVF. As religious convictions clash with reproductive technologies, we examine the precarious balance between faith and science. Furthermore, the conversation extends to the sensitive issue of parental and physician decision-making in children's medical care, where we stand firm on the principle of minimal government intervention. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch and support the show --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

When the steadfast beliefs of a small-town church collide with the rigidity of municipal codes, the result is a legal labyrinth worthy of a deep exploration. That's why Bruce Gerencser, a former evangelical minister, will share the saga of his friend Pastor Chris Avell and his federal lawsuit drama with the city of Bryan, Ohio. Amidst the clash of ideologies and legalities, we dissect the pivotal issues at play — from the constitutional guarantees of the First Amendment to the civic responsibilities of a community. Venturing beyond legalities, our conversation pivots to the societal conundrum of rural homelessness, with Bryan serving as a microcosm of a nationwide struggle. Dad's Place Church's transformation into a shelter thrusts the spotlight upon the thin line between benevolence and zoning infractions. Where do we draw the legal line especially when the lives of those struggling is in the balance? Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch 01:02 Introduction 03:29 Report from WTVG in Toledo 04:00 Interview with Bruce Gerencser 46:10 Epilogue & Update --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

When Ohio's political landscape takes a turn that sends shivers down the spine of every advocate for trans rights, it demands a response—mine is unapologetically fiery. The recent override of Governor DeWine's veto on House Bill 68 is more than just a legislative move; it's a cold shoulder to the well-being of trans kids who deserve gender-affirming care and the right to participate in sports. In this episode, we propose legislative changes that champion the rights of all children. From challenging religious exemptions to advocating for initiatives like free school lunches, we confront the political maneuvers that threaten to undermine our shared values of compassion and equality. We wade through the murky waters where religion and freedom intersect, casting a spotlight on the secular challenges emerging in state legislatures. We examine the recently released State of the Secular States Report from American Atheists. These reports will tell you where your state stands on real religious freedom or has it been consumed by fake moral panics in 2024. Join us for a crucial examination of these pressing social issues and the integral role they play in the broader narrative of human rights and secularism in America. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Support the Show 01:01 Gary Click's Attack on Trans Kids13:25 American Atheists State of the Secular States Report --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

We discuss the 2023 Freedom of Thought Report by Humanist International. We explore the bias in the International Religious Freedom Act and the need for more representation of atheistic and humanistic voices. We highlight discrimination faced by humanists worldwide and the challenges of mandatory religious instruction in schools. We emphasize the importance of protecting secularism and pluralism and call for collective action to dismantle barriers to freedom of thought. Show Notes 05:17 History and Context of the Freedom of Thought Report 15:48 United States Commission on International Religious Freedom has had no atheists appointed 19:51 Selected clips of speakers from Freedom of Thought Report press conference --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

What if the Christmas tree had more to do with paganism than Christianity? What if your favorite holiday celebrations were more inclusive, less religious, and yet equally festive? We explore secular alternatives like Human Light and Festivus, and address the 'Happy Holidays' vs 'Merry Christmas' debate in an attempt to foster inclusivity and respect for everyone's beliefs during this festive season. Strap in as we journey back to the rise of the religious right in the 70s and 80s, a movement not birthed out of conflicts over sex education or abortion, but a court ruling disallowing tax exemptions for religious schools endorsing racial discrimination. We analyze the political activism of Jerry Falwell and Ralph Reed, and their influence on the 2016 and 2020 elections. Ronald Reagan's role in the movement and he led to Donald Trump. We round off the episode by spotlighting the issue of conservative religious groups violating tax laws and the IRS's backlog of untouched cases due to political influence. Beware that you aren't indirectly supporting discrimination or a conservative agenda. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merchandise 00:45 Being Secular During Religious Holidays15:07 The Real Origins of the Religious Right --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

Join us for a captivating conversation with the esteemed Andrew Seidel, vice president of strategic communications for Americans United. Andrew, a seasoned attorney and ardent defender of the First Amendment, takes us through his remarkable journey in law and his dedication towards upholding the separation of church and state. He offers intriguing insights into the legal concept of 'standing' and the pivotal role of this church-state separateness in shaping many contemporary issues. Our discourse further unravels the NOT subtle weaponization of religious freedom, a disconcerting trend that threatens democracy by privileging a select few such as the new speaker of the US House Michael Johnson, a Christian Nationalist of the first order. As we weave through the integral threads of church-state separation within the fabric of our republic, the significance of authentic religious freedom and the strive for unexceptional equality becomes evident. Andrew concludes our engrossing dialogue on a positive note, expressing optimism in the growing awareness of people towards this significant struggle. Eye-opening and enlightening, this conversation is a must for those keen on comprehending the profound correlation between religion, state, and the fight for equality in America. Show Notes Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our merch 01:43 Origin Story 05:10 How Are 1St Amendment Cases Litigated? 09:14 Christian Nationalists Attack On Public Schools 15:09 Weaponizing Religious Freedom Harms Democracy 19:28 1st Amendment Doesn't Just Protect The Religious 24:01 Speaker Michael Johnson Is A Christian Nationalist Of The 1st Order. 31:14 Ending with Some Optimism --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

Join us for a deeply moving conversation with Dawne Knoch Anthony, a courageous survivor of domestic abuse and religious trauma, who has redefined her life with resilience and strength. Dawne openly shares her experiences from her conservative religious upbringing to her transformation into an author and advocate. The narrative unfolds with Dawne unspooling her early years in a religious household and her struggle-filled journey through relationships in a conservative environment. Hear her talk about the pressures of marriage, the challenge of raising and homeschooling nine children, and the debilitating depression that followed. Her tale takes a turn with her passion for writing fueling her to pen two books - one on Beethoven, her favorite composer, and a memoir of her life, all while grappling with parenting and a stifling marriage. Dawne's story transcends her personal struggles, transforming into a beacon of hope for others. As an advocate for survivors of domestic violence and religious trauma, she gives voice to those silenced by similar circumstances. Discover how her life post-religion has been imbued with meaning and purpose, how she raises funds for domestic violence shelters through recitals, and her unwavering optimism for the future. Tune in for an inspiring and enlightening dialogue that celebrates resilience and our incredible capacity to overcome and thrive. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

Growing up a punk rock fan, I've always admired the raw emotion and honesty embedded in the genre. Reflecting this, we dive into the life of punk rock legend Henry Rollins and uncover the turbulent family dynamics that shaped him. You'll learn how those experiences shed light on the importance of families choosing to remain together out of love, not obligation, unearthing the implications of societal and religious pressures on family ties. Whether it’s Rollins’ strained relationship with his mother and stepfather or a family member of mine who severed ties with her own mother, we challenge the 'perfect' nuclear family narrative that pervades our society. Building on the theme of societal pressures, we shift the conversation to a contentious issue that has stirred my passion for the longest time: religious education in public schools. In Ohio, a unique arrangement known as Release Time Religious Education allows public school students to attend Bible school classes during the school day. As a humanist and atheist, we grapple with the thorny issues this raises, not least the infiltration of LifeWise Academy, a group pushing for these Bible classes, into our school systems. While sifting through the delicate balance of religion and education, we raise critical questions about the role of school district personnel in student recruitment for these classes and the potential dangers therein. So, tune in for this eye-opening exploration of familial and societal tensions. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch 01:00 Henry Rollins And The Myth Of The Nuclear Family 15:59 Dealing with 1st Amendment Violations In Release Time Religious Education Classes --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

Join us as we delve into an insightful conversation with Dr. Reverend David Breeden, senior minister at the First Unitarian Society of Minneapolis. Listen as he walks us through the fascinating history of congregational humanism and shares the ways in which his congregation has been a part of the humanist community since 1916. Discover how his poetic writing has shaped liturgies for a secular audience, and get a better understanding of the difference between religious and secular humanism. Listen as David shares his unique experiences and insights as a humanist minister, and learn about his work to foster a safe and inclusive environment for his congregation. This episode isn't just about congregational humanism. We also discuss Mary Midgley's idea that all solutions are incomplete, and how this thinking can inform humanist thought and our decision-making process today. Learn how the “feminine arts” were used by the Cambridge women of the World War II generation to question virtue ethics, and explore the potential impact this could have on our current view. We’ll also touch on the possible implications of new discoveries in astronomy on our understanding of the universe. Lastly, we consider why some governments might hesitate to implement solutions that could reduce poverty, and explore the potential for a society that empowers individuals to make their own life decisions. This thought-provoking episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in humanism and its potential role in our society. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter We have Merch --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

Listen in as we unravel the story of St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Toledo, a once-abandoned church that was saved from demolition by the tireless efforts of Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur and the Lucas County Land Bank. We discuss the process of determining what the building could be used for, guided by the wishes of the community and the ideas generated by a focus group. We talk about potential uses for the space, such as a health and athletics center, a museum, and a focal point for the neighborhood, while keeping the conversation rooted in the neighborhood's needs. We look at the Lucas County Land Bank's redevelopment plans, including the shift from proposing affordable housing to a community event space. We examine a controversial proposal by Adventus, a recreational company, to turn the church into a for-profit climbing gym, and how this is not what the community wants. You'll hear how this case may set a precedent for the redevelopment of other abandoned churches in Toledo. Don't miss this engaging conversation on community development, preservation, and the creative reuse of old buildings. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch 00:45 Group News 02:20 Update on St. Anthony's reuse project 26:36 Update Epilogue --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

We talk about our recent experience at the Maumee Summer Fair. We don't have a lot of money for advertising and instead rely on setting up booths at festivals. The layout was different this year due to street construction. Despite this, we were able to meet new people and reconnect with some former group members. A new addition to the booth, a wheel with humanist values that people can spin for the chance to win a prize, helped educate people about Humanism and was a great activity for kids who visited. Next we looked at the farce that was the Ohio Ballot Board on August 24th. Secretary of State, and US Senate candidate, Frank LaRose, who chairs the Ballot Board, is responsible for the ballot language for a proposed constitutional amendment called the 'Right to reproductive freedom with protections for health and safety'. LaRose's office created a draft of the language, ignoring the draft submitted by the coalition supporting the amendment. Senator Paula Hicks Hudson attempted to substitute LaRose's draft with the coalition's, but it was voted down. LaRose also changed the language so it dismisses Trans individuals. This was an effort trying to gaslight voters by using inflammatory and manipulative language in the summary that appears on the official ballot. State Senator Theresa Gaverone violated the rules of the committee by arguing the merits of the amendment using false and inflammatory language. Senator Gaverone's statement, which was full of lies and fabrications, leaves out the fact that the current onerous regulations imposed on abortion clinics would be removed and that late-term abortions are rare and typically occur due to health complications. It's clear that some people are using manipulative tactics to prevent the abortion rights amendment from passing, but we'll see what happens in November. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out some merch 00:55 Maumee Summer Fair Recap 15:04 Guess What Happens When Christian Nationalists Write A Reproductive Rights Amendment? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

We're venturing into a discussion about renowned Professor Lee Strang, a symbolic figure of Christian Nationalism in Northwest Ohio. From his significant role in academia as a law professor at the University of Toledo to his controversial advocacy for so-called Intellectual Diversity centers at Ohio law schools, Strang's influence is widespread and thought-provoking. His recent participation in State Issue One showcases his role at the core of significant legal and societal debates. Our discussion doesn't shy away from the controversial aspects of Strang's work. We dissect his interpretation of the First Amendment, where he argues it excludes atheism and secular humanism from the definition of religion, and discuss his belief that an unborn fetus should be constitutionally protected. We also touch on his founding of the Northwest Ohio Classical Academy, a religious school disguised as a public charter school with a distinct approach to education, and how his views on constitutional originalism shape his approach to these institutions. Finally, we delve into the complexities of Strang's Christian nationalist influence and discuss the appearence of a quid pro quo with the leaders of the Ohio Republican Party and Ohio anti-abortion groups. By examining Strang's founding of the Northwest Ohio Classical Academy and his attempts to pass State Issue 1 with State Senator and former student Rob McColley, we provide an intriguing look into the dynamics of Trumpian politics. Whether you agree with his views or not, Strang's influence in Ohio and beyond cannot be ignored. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of one man's impact on law, education, and society in the state of Ohio. Editor's note: Professor Strang was invited to be a guest on the show to talk about these topics. He initially agreed to appear then shortly before it was to be recorded he canceled the interview. 00:56 Introduction And Clarifications 11:27 Originalism And The 1St Amendment 24:27 Anti-Abortion Activist 30:05 Letter About Homosexuality Harming Families 41:30 Founding Of Religious School Disguised As Public Charter School 55:13 Media Darling Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

Join us in our captivating dialogue with the dynamic Greer Aeschbury, Ohio's senior campaign manager with All Voting is Local Action. She provides her expert perspective on the essential work the Ohio Voter Rights Coalition is doing to ensure voting accessibility and fairness. Together, we dive deep into their battle against State Issue 1 and the repercussions of the new voter ID law. A significant part of our discussion centers on the implications of Ohio's collaboration ban. We unravel how it adversely affects poll worker recruitment, voter registration, and voter education. Despite claims from the Secretary of State that the law is an anti-fraud measure, it's clear that it's hampering the Board of Elections' ability to cooperate effectively with community groups. We take a moment to laud the fundamental work of poll workers and encourage you, our listeners, to take an active part in this process. As we round up our discussion, we give a nod to the upcoming special election on August 8th. It's a chance for Ohio's citizens to protect their constitutional rights, so be sure to cast your 'no' vote. We also explore the challenges in requesting and returning ballots, and the necessity of visiting your board of elections in person. With the help of the Ohio Voter Rights Coalition, we emphasize the importance of spreading the word and getting involved. Tune in to be part of this enlightening discussion and make a difference in promoting accessible and fair voting. Show Notes Get our free newsletter Check out our merch 01:01 Introduction and Voting No on August 8th 07:57 Getting a free ID to vote isn't completely free 13:42 Collaboration ban hurts poll worker recruitment 22:58 What can average person do against these voting obstacles --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

Join us as we sit down with Josie Schreiber, a regional organizer for Rank the Vote Ohio, to uncover how the implementation of ranked choice voting can shift the dynamics of our current election system. Listen as Josie reveals the mechanisms of ranked choice voting, highlighting its potential to secure a majority vote for winning candidates and eliminate voter apathy. Our enlightening discussion explores the organization’s mission and efforts to promote a stronger voice and greater choice for all Ohioans. Josie also offers a historical perspective on ranked choice voting in Ohio, discussing its impact on representation in elections and how it can potentially revolutionize our electoral process. We also talk about the tangible changes that ranked choice voting can bring, such as eliminating toxic campaign practices and empowering the people's voice. Josie’s passion for a more inclusive, representative democracy shines through as we discuss the many ways ranked choice voting can make democracy more accessible and fair for everyone. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! This is our 60th episode! Show Notes Get our free newsletter Check out our Merch 01:00 What is Rank the Vote Ohio and Ranked Choice Voting 06:49 Some Concerns Addressed 13:49 Opposition to State Issue 1 16:35 How Do We Get Involved --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

Join us for a riveting discussion with Allison Gill, Vice President of Legal and Policy for American Atheists. Listen in as we discuss the mission of American Atheists and their ongoing fight for religious equality. We also touch on the case of an incarcerated person in West Virginia being forced to undergo religious substance abuse treatment in order to qualify for parole, as well as a Fifth Circuit case in Mississippi on the state's license plate motto reading “In God We Trust”. We also discuss American Atheists' state scorecards, which provide benchmarks across states and show how many states have or don't have certain protections in place. We explore how these scorecards differ from a voter's guide and how they are used for advocacy purposes. Additionally, we touch on the tactic of filing a First Amendment lawsuit against abortion bans and why it is not always ideal. Finally we examine the idea of Third Party Harm and how granting religious exemptions can be destructive and favor some religions over others. We highlight the importance of seeking help from organizations such as the National Suicide Helpline and the Trevor Project in light of the coordinated attack on the trans community happening in Ohio. Show Notes Subscribe to our Free Newsletter Check out our Merch 01:00 Episode Note 02:45 American Atheists mission to defend religious freedom 11:46 State Score Cards 17:43 Using the 1st amendment to protect abortion rights 20:30 Third party harm and religious freedom 26:12 Religious Extremism Targeting the LGBTQ Community 36:30 How to contact American Atheists if you believe your rights were violated --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

What happens when you combine the power of women voters with a dedication to inclusivity and advocacy? You get the incredible League of Women Voters, Toledo, Lucas County! We had the pleasure of talking with Anne Fabazac Payne, the organization's co-president, who shared her insights on the league's mission and we dove into the new voter restrictions in the state, highlighting hidden barriers like government-issued ID requirements and the need for birth certificates to verify name changes. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch 00:45 Intro/League Of Women Voter's Mission 08:21 Barriers To Voting In Ohio 30:10 Education Bills That Worry The League --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message

As the weather turns warmer, Humanists look to attend various conferences, events, and fairs. We gather in groups for affirmation, networking and the fun of socializing. We speak to Bob Barnes, President of Bluewater Atheists Humanists and Agnostics in Sarnia Ontario, about their conference coming up in August. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/glasscityhumanist/message