What We Do
WEEKLY WORKSHOPS
Unlike many organizations concerned with social change, the HM holds as absolutely key the relation between the personal and the social - and hence between personal and social change. For people who understand that these things cannot be separated and that one's own "liberation" is tied to the "liberation" of others, the Movement makes available very simple and unpretentious weekly workshops which offer everyone an opportunity to understand themselves better and to make desired changes in their lives. By focusing on what is positive in oneself and by meeting with others interested in these same themes, it is possible to find the strength, wisdom and kindness we all possess.
The meetings are divided into two parts: a 30-45 minute personal work and an equal amount of time to plan our activities.
Open to everyone, these meetings are held every Tuesday evening at 7 pm at the Quaker Friends' House at 231 Westmount Drive South.
ORILLIA & AREA CENTRE OF CULTURES
In Orillia, the Centre of Cultures was launched in February 2007 with a Mid-Winter Gathering and Community Potluck which featured a talk by storyteller Mark Douglas from Mnjikaning First Nation about ancient Native teachings on the four colours coming together.
Working to bring together people of diverse cultures, the Centre of Cultures is for all people who feel that the violence and inequality in the world today belongs in the past.
We have three main objectives: to promote dialogue between all cultures, to fight against discrimination and racism, and to promote the ideals and values of New Humanism.
In our small corner of the world we are working to build a community that embraces diversity, respect, and a truly human civilization, a Universal Human Nation. We are meeting these objectives through a series of community potlucks, forums on cultural and community issues and other projects.
For more information visit www.centreofcultures.ca
NON-VIOLENCE AND ANTI-WAR ACTIVITIES
The Humanist Movement was launched in Orillia with a Living Peace Sign, a gathering on September 11, 2006 that saw some 50 people gather for non-violence in Couchiching Beach Park. Another Living Peace Sign, in sync with HM peace signs around the world, will be held on March 17th, 2007 the anniversary of the war in Iraq.
We also offer one to 1.5 hour workshops on non-violence which are currently occuring in Georgian College classes. These involve discussion about the prevelance of violence in our world including discrimination, reflections on our own experiences with violence, and personal work to begin to overcome the tendency to focus on our differences rather than our similarities.
There is no charge for these workshops. Interested teachers, youth workers or people from other community groups should contact Lauren Carter at 705-323-9476 for more information.
YOUR PROJECT GOES HERE
Many people have fantastic ideas for ways to improve the world around them. The Humanist Movement can often provide a framework for organization and focus for many of these projects. You don't have to be an expert to be an activist! Get involved and bring your ideas!
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