Building a Global Humanist Movement
Introduced by: Ambrese Montagu
Please join the Zoom Meeting here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/971381033
Toronto and Canada as a whole are uniquely positioned to become a hub for modern humanist leadership. Toronto is one of the world’s most diverse cities, it offers a living laboratory for collaboration across cultures, philosophies, and belief systems. Strengthening the global humanist community begins with strengthening our local one—by building bridges with organizations whose values align, whether religious, non‑religious, interfaith, or secular service‑oriented. Humanism thrives when it is visible, engaged, and connected.
A growing number of international humanist groups have demonstrated that cooperation across borders leads to more effective advocacy. For example, humanist chaplains now serve in airports, universities, and public institutions across Europe, offering compassionate support without religious framing. Exploring whether similar roles could exist in Canada—such as humanist chaplains in airports, hospitals, community centres or even military cadet programs—opens new pathways for service and public engagement. Toronto’s multicultural environment makes it an ideal testing ground.
Humanists vary widely in their relationship to religion: some are strongly secular or anti‑religious, while others are non‑religious but deeply supportive of interfaith collaboration. A strong movement must make space for both perspectives while focusing on shared goals: human dignity, evidence‑based policy, compassion, and community well‑being. By partnering with groups working on homelessness, refugee support, mental health, youth mentorship, and civic inclusion, Toronto humanists can demonstrate their values through action.
Ultimately, building a global humanist movement starts with local credibility. When humanists show up—consistently, respectfully, and collaboratively—they strengthen not only Toronto’s civic fabric but also the international humanist voice. Canadian humanist groups can become a model for how humanists contribute meaningfully to pluralistic societies.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
What do thriving Toronto and Canadian humanist community look like in five years?
What kinds of events would attract people new to humanism?
How can humanists become more visible in civic and cultural life?
Which local issues should be priorities for humanist action?
Should we emphasize community service or public education?
How can we collaborate with faith and interfaith groups while maintaining a humanist identity?
What misconceptions about humanism limit our growth?
What initiatives would most effectively double participation in five years?
If we had 10-20 volunteers and a modest budget, what project should we launch this year?
How can Canadian humanists support international humanist groups?
FOUR RELATED ARTICLES (SUMMARIES + WEBSITES)
1.Humanists International - “The Global State of Human Rights & Humanism”
Summary: This annual report outlines challenges faced by humanists worldwide, including discrimination, blasphemy laws, and limits on secular expression. It highlights the importance of international solidarity and coordinated advocacy. Website:https://humanists.international
2.The Humanist Chaplaincy at Harvard – “Secular Pastoral Care in Public Institutions”
Summary: Explores how humanist chaplains support students through ethical counselling, grief support, and community-building. Demonstrates how chaplaincy can function without religious doctrine and offers a model for Canadian institutions. Website:https://chaplain.harvard.edu
3. European Humanist Federation – “Humanist Chaplaincy in Airports and Public Services”
Summary: Describes the emergence of humanist chaplains in European airports, providing non-religious pastoral care to travellers and staff. Shows how secular chaplaincy can coexist with religious chaplaincy in pluralistic societies. Website:https://humanistfederation.eu
4. Interfaith Toronto – “Building Bridges Across Belief Systems”
Summary: Highlights Toronto’s interfaith initiatives, emphasizing collaboration on social justice, community service, and civic engagement. Demonstrates how non-religious participants contribute meaningfully to interfaith work. Website:https://interfaithtoronto.caDetails to follow
Please join the Zoom Meeting here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97138103