American Humanist Association

American Humanist Association
Name	American Humanist Association
Founded	1941
Location	Washington, D.C.
Key people	Roy P. Fairfield, Isaac Asimov, Kurt Vonnegut
Focus	Humanism, Secularism, Civil liberties
Website	americanhumanist.org

American Humanist Association. It is a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing humanism, a progressive philosophy of life that emphasizes ethical living, critical thinking, and human agency without reliance on supernatural beliefs. Founded in the mid-20th century, it advocates for secularism, social justice, and the application of science and reason to societal issues. The organization provides a community for non-theists, influences public policy, and promotes humanist ideals through education, publications, and outreach.

History

The organization was formally incorporated in 1941, emerging from earlier humanist thought exemplified by the 1933 Humanist Manifesto I. Key early figures included philosopher Roy P. Fairfield and Unitarian minister Curtis W. Reese, who sought to create a structured advocacy group. A significant milestone was its instrumental role in the drafting and publication of Humanist Manifesto II in 1973, which updated humanist principles for the modern era. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, it grew in influence, engaging in notable legal advocacy such as amicus curiae briefs in landmark Supreme Court cases concerning separation of church and state. In 1991, it relocated its headquarters to Washington, D.C., to strengthen its policy advocacy efforts.

Philosophy and principles

Its philosophy is rooted in naturalism and rationalism, asserting that humans shape their own ethics and destinies through compassion and empirical evidence. Core principles, as outlined in documents like Humanist Manifesto III, include a commitment to human rights, democracy, and an open, scientific approach to understanding the universe. It explicitly rejects divine command theory and supernaturalism, promoting instead a life stance focused on personal fulfillment and the greater good of humanity. This worldview aligns with but is distinct from related movements like secular humanism, atheism, and ethical culture.

Activities and programs

Its activities are wide-ranging, focusing on advocacy, education, and community building. It maintains a legal center that engages in litigation and lobbying on issues such as religious freedom, reproductive rights, and LGBT rights in the United States. The organization runs the Humanist Society, which provides humanist celebrants to officiate weddings, funerals, and other life-cycle ceremonies. It also organizes annual conferences, like the one held in Las Vegas, and supports hundreds of local chapters and affiliates across the country. Educational initiatives include the Humanist Institute and programs promoting humanistic education in public schools.

Publications

It publishes several periodicals and books that are influential in freethought circles. Its flagship magazine, The Humanist, founded in 1941, features essays on ethics, politics, and culture. For a younger audience, it publishes Humanist in Chief and the online magazine TheHumanist.com. The press also releases books by prominent authors, including works by Isaac Asimov and Richard Dawkins, and publishes the annual Humanism and Its Aspirations pamphlet. These publications serve to disseminate humanist thought and critique issues from a secular perspective.

Notable members and supporters

Throughout its history, it has attracted support from many distinguished intellectuals, artists, and scientists. Early influential members included biologist Julian Huxley and philosopher John Dewey. Literary giants Isaac Asimov and Kurt Vonnegut served as presidents and were outspoken advocates, with Vonnegut famously serving as its honorary president until his death. Contemporary supporters include television personality Bill Nye, philosopher Daniel Dennett, and comedian Julia Sweeney. Many recipients of its Humanist of the Year award, such as Margaret Sanger and Carl Sagan, have also been closely associated with its mission.

Recognition and awards

It confers several major awards to honor individuals who advance humanist ideals. The most prominent is the Humanist of the Year award, past recipients of which include Gloria Steinem, Salman Rushdie, and Pete Seeger. The Isaac Asimov Science Award recognizes contributions to science and technology, while the Humanist Distinguished Service Award honors lifetime achievement. It also presents the Humanist Heroine Award and awards for literary contributions, often presented at its annual conference. These awards highlight the work of those who promote reason, compassion, and human dignity in public life.

Category:Humanist organizations in the United States Category:Secular organizations Category:Organizations based in Washington, D.C.