Together, we can do so much

The world is changing rapidly and there is a growing chorus of voices making up the secular movement. Canadians are unifying under a common conviction to lead ethical and meaningful lives without the reliance upon a belief in the supernatural.

At Humanist Canada, we believe that dignity and compassion should be the basis for how we act towards others. And, we believe that reason and science are the best ways to understand the world around us. We raise awareness of Humanism in communities across the country in an effort to advance critical thinking and freedom of choice in Canada so that everyone can live in a fair and equal society.  

What is Humanism?

Humanism has inspired many of the world’s great thinkers and creative artists and gave rise to science itself. It is a frame of meaning, a kind of nuanced attention to the complexities of the world that seeks to understand what constitutes a good life and draws out its implications for individuals and society.

About three-in-ten Canadians define their beliefs as atheist, agnostic or “nothing in particular” and two-thirds of Canadians say it is not necessary to believe in God in order to lead meaningful lives. 

Humanists advocate for a more equitable allocation of resources and call for justice for historically disadvantaged groups. They are motivated by compassion, guided by reason, and inspired by history, art, music, literature, and the beauty of the natural world.

We are Canada’s national voice of Humanism

Since 1968, we have been at the forefront of creating a fair and equal society guided by critical thinking and compassion. We are committed to putting Humanism into practice through:

• Ceremonies by Humanist Officiants to help the non-religious and secular mark significant milestones in their lives, such as weddings, funerals, and child namings, in meaningful ways.
• Education programs, such as our monthly webinar series which provides a platform for a wide range of topics and perspectives, and our soon-to-be launched Public Humanities program, which will offer tools to build competencies and skills in pursuit of a deeper knowledge of Humanism.

We also build alliances with like-minded organizations, and present the annual Dr. Henry Morgentaler Scholarship in partnership with the Ontario Coalition of Abortion Clinics (OCAC) to a student pursuing a medical degree with a focus on women’s health and access to abortion. As well, Humanist Canada sponsors an essay contest to encourage students in learning more about Humanism.

We accept donations of any amount, gifts of securities, and bequests.

For more information, please visit our website.