Family and Community: Navigating Diverse Perspectives Together

Finding common ground is often easier said than done. But what if it's not as difficult as we imagine? What if the key to unity is already within our reach? Join us for an enlightening conversation with our guest speaker, Steve Ghikadis, as we explore the shared values, experiences, and aspirations that connect us all. Together, we’ll uncover what unites us as partners in humanity and how we can bridge divides with understanding and empathy.

Coming soon… Watch the Gathering Here

Quotes

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better.” -  Maya Angelou

“We must give ourselves a good hard mental swat every time we feel inclined to mock, sneer, or roll our eyes at those whose beliefs differ from our own.” - Dale McGowan

Readings - Humanism from the Heart: Building Bridges Beyond Belief by Steve Ghikadis

“The division between religious and non-religious people often stems from misunderstanding, not malice. Too often, atheists are painted as nihilists without morals, while religious people are dismissed as dogmatic zealots. Neither caricature reflects reality. By asking better questions and listening with genuine curiosity, ala Street Epistemology, we can find common ground. “What gives your life meaning?” is a far better conversation starter than, “Why do you believe in myths?” Similarly, acknowledging our own uncertainties—whether about the universe, ethics, or the future—can open doors to dialogue. In the end, the goal isn’t to convert or deconvert but to coexist. Evidence is a tool, not a weapon. It can guide us toward understanding, but it’s empathy that helps us walk across the bridge. By respecting each other’s humanity, we take the first steps toward a world where belief, disbelief, and everything in between can coexist without hostility.”

“Much of the negativity faced by non-religious and other marginalized groups is amplified by fear: fear of change, fear of the unknown, and fear of doubt. This fear is often stoked by messaging that promotes the demonization of specific groups, creating a divisive, "us versus them" narrative. In many cases, this involves projection, where individuals assume that those who oppose their beliefs must harbor the same hostility toward them. While it’s true that some people on all sides resort to personal attacks or disrespect, these reactions often stem from deeper issues. Sometimes it’s anger at systemic injustices tied to certain affiliations. Other times it’s the bitterness of feeling unable to fully express oneself in a society that stigmatizes difference. And in some cases, anger is a reaction to genuine harm caused by the person or the group they represent. Understanding these dynamics is essential. Instead of focusing on attacking people, we should aim to address the systems, fears, and misunderstandings that perpetuate division. Only through dialogue, empathy, and the willingness to challenge harmful ideas can we begin to bridge the gaps and build a more inclusive society. Doubt can actually be extremely valuable, often leading to new insights and perspectives you might not have considered before. That’s why stepping outside the echo chamber of your own worldview and engaging in events like these is so essential for both emotional and cognitive growth.