Anthony Grasso Assistant Professor of Political Science, Rutgers University, Camden What is the Supreme Court’s standing as an institution; and how will that affect the future of democracy? Anthony Grasso will discuss recent controversial Court decisions, major cases on its docket, and the sorts of cases we should expect to see in this election year. [...]

Ethical Culture urges us to be good morally by honoring the worth of others, nurturing ethical relationships, and building social justice. Ethical Culture also celebrates lives filled with meaning and joy. How are these related? Are we to balance ethical living with personal fulfillment, separating our day into “ethical time” and “me time”? Or should [...]

Shauna Shames Associate Professor of Political Science, Rutgers University, Camden What can political science tell us about the role of gendered public policy and women as candidates in the upcoming elections? Shauna Shames will share research and insights about some key gendered issues—including reproductive rights, gun control, and child care—that may motivate turnout and choice [...]

Opening the Door for Democracy with YVote All-Societies Platform Sanda Baladan, co-founder of YVote; and Audrey Kindred, of the New York Society for Ethical Culture, will explain how they bring voter- and civic-engagement activities to hundreds of youth in democracy reinforcement programs. They also will offer guidance for other Ethical Societies interested in similar actions. [...]

The 2024 Presidential Election is an existential challenge for democracy. Thinking about it generates dread. Often, we seek relief in political satire. Laughter can ease anxiety and lower harmful cortisol levels. Humor can also be a potent political tool. Nothing disempowers political and playground bullies as much as being laughed at. Hugh explores how the [...]

Michael G. Hagen Associate Professor of Political Science, Temple University  Professor Hagen will speak about his current research on the conduct and consequences of national elections and also about elections in our battleground state of Pennsylvania. Hagen founded Temple’s Institute for Public Affairs in 2004 and served as its director until 2008. He was formerly [...]

Ethical Culture encourages harmonizing with nature to bring out the best for all life. That philosophy is embodied in the Society’s summer program at Camp Linden, where children from low-income neighborhoods experience the natural world while practicing ethical behavior. Located in rural Chester County, the camp offers environmental education and swimming. Hugh reflects on how [...]

Kelly Sheard Director, Gender Wealth Institute at Women's Way In 2022, the Women’s Way Gender Wealth Institute launched a large-scale research campaign to identify and address key drivers of gender wealth inequity. The goal: to create the Philadelphia region’s first Gender Wealth Index. Sheard will discuss the project, which is designed to drive evidence-based action [...]

In May, Hugh’s platforms will address two very different stages of life: youth and old age. His first talk—suggested by our pianist, Rollin Wilber—examines the work of Eugene Field, a 19th century writer who composed sentimental poems for children. But while young people delighted in Field’s verse, adults were moved by his evocation of an [...]

Khandra Sears, Board President American Ethical Union Reflecting popular trends, the American Ethical Union (AEU) has seen engagement decline at its member societies and across the movement. It also has navigated a series of significant, rapid transitions in recent years. Sears’ talk will focus on the AEU Board of Directors’ work rebuilding connections among Ethical [...]