American Humanist Association

The American Humanist Association (AHA) is a nonprofit organization in the United States that advances the philosophy of secular humanism.

Overview

The AHA was founded in 1941, emerging from the Humanist Press Association, which itself originated from the Humanist Fellowship formed in 1927 in Chicago. The organization advocates for equality, promoting a worldview based on reason, empathy, and scientific knowledge. It emphasizes the dignity of every human being and encourages living meaningful lives without belief in supernatural forces.

Mission and Activities

The AHA's mission is to advocate for secular governance and civil liberties while fostering a society where ethical values are guided by scientific knowledge rather than religious doctrine. Through its activities, the AHA supports causes such as church-state separation and represents humanist interests in legal matters. It also publishes several journals and magazines, including The Humanist, Free Mind, and Essays in the Philosophy of Humanism.

History

The AHA has a rich history of supporting significant social issues. It was the first national membership organization to support abortion rights and has been active in defending non-theistic conscientious objectors and advocating for death with dignity. The organization has also collaborated with other humanist bodies internationally, being a founding member of Humanists International (formerly the International Humanist and Ethical Union). Notably, in the 1960s, the AHA supported Vashti McCollum in her fight against religious instruction in public schools, leading to a landmark Supreme Court decision.

Humanist Manifestos

The AHA has been instrumental in publishing influential humanist manifestos. The first Humanist Manifesto was issued in 1933, and Humanist Manifesto II followed in 1973. These documents have played a crucial role in defining and promoting humanist principles.

Membership and Legal Efforts

The AHA has over 34,000 members and engages in legal advocacy through the Appignani Humanist Legal Center, established in 2006. This legal arm ensures that humanists' constitutional rights are represented in court.

Leadership and Recognition

The AHA is led by a president and executive director, currently Candace Gorham and Fish Stark, respectively. The organization has honored notable figures with its "Humanist of the Year" award and has played a significant role in American society by fostering humanist values.