Who We Are
About Us
The Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago is a self-governing, inclusive, caring community for those who seek a rational, compassionate philosophy of life.
We focus on the ethical values that bring people together, not on the beliefs that keep people apart.
In the spirit of intellectual, philosophical, and artistic freedom, we come together to explore life, nature, and the universe.
Like traditional religious communities, we celebrate births, conduct wedding ceremonies, and host memorial services.
We provide for the ethical education of our children, based on rational, critical thinking.
“Act so as to elicit the best from others, and thereby from yourself.”  – Felix Adler
Newcomers Welcome!
Curious? The best way to get to know us is to attend a Sunday program or two, or bring your children to our Sunday School. After each program we have a coffee hour (virtual for now) where you can meet and chat with members, other guests, and the featured speaker. It’s just that simple! We really hope you’ll join us for an upcoming talk.About Humanism
Our History
The Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago is a nonprofit, religious organization and is a chapter of the American Humanist Association.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
Ben Ost, President
Buzz States, Vice President
Kara Malenfant, Secretary
Phil Zaczek, Treasurer
Sue Hurley
Steve Julstrom
Rajesh Kini
Rick Guthmann
Deb McGarvey
CHILDREN’S PROGRAM DIRECTOR:
Sharon AppelquistÂ
HUMANIST CELEBRANTS:
Glenda Kenyon and Katie Merrell  CelebrantInfo@ethicalhuman.org
RENTAL / EVENTS COORDINATOR:
Steve JulstromÂ
Mission
Our Mission is to create a supportive and inclusive Humanist community that inspires all to be their best selves; sustains us throughout life’s milestones, with celebrations, memorials and festivals; respects science, art, and nature; promotes critical thinking and rational ways to solve human problems; and creates opportunities to take action to bring about a better world for all.
Vision
Our Vision is to be a strong contributor in a vibrant network of Chicagoland Humanist groups, and beyond, actively serving our many communities as advocates for human rights, equity, critical thinking, and other Humanist ideals.
Values
We Value the importance of living an ethical, responsible, and joyful life. We promote intellectual, philosophical, and artistic freedom, avoiding dogma and rigid creed. We nurture a sense of wonder about life, nature, and the universe, and are inspired by positive models of human achievement. Shaped by the forces of humanism, democracy, science, and religious reform, we cherish human diversity, and we focus on what we have in common, not on what keeps us apart.
