For
general information on humanism, click
here.
Sutton
Humanists [SH] support a positive caring alternative to religious
belief.
Humanism is an ethical alternative to religion, based on reason,
equal rights, free speech, and one law for all.
SH have been meeting regularly for over 50 years. We have guest
speakers and discussions on current issues, education and politics.
SH meet on the first Wednesday of the month in The Prince of
Wales, Malden Road, Cheam. SM3 6QF. It’s a friendly informal
atmosphere that encourages involvement and discussion.
Recent meetings reflect current times with religion back into
politics and our lives, in a big way. Just when less and less
people are interested in religion, we are confronted more and
more by religious privileges in education, the workplace and
political life.
SH seek to lead honest and law-abiding lives, according to the
values of human rights and responsibilities.
These values include:
* Equal rights for everyone.
* Freedom of speech.
* No discrimination regarding gender or sexual bias.
* A democratic society with one set of laws for everyone.
SH support a Secular Agenda where everyone has the right to
follow a religious belief or faith. But religion and the state
should be separate – religion should not be a part of
political process or dominate education.
Faith Schools can only lead to greater divisions and sectarianism
within our society. They are discriminatory, selective and divisive.
Children have the right to the most balanced and wide ranging
education possible, to prepare them for our complex modern world.
Even a survey by The Church Times found that 75% of respondents
answered yes to the question “should faith schools be
phased out?”
SH is open to all people who have serious concerns about personal
and social morality, but do not wish to express them through
religious affiliation.
SH provides opportunities to meet like-minded people and where
appropriate to cooperate in practical action.
Sutton Humanist Group was founded late in 1955 by George and
Marjorie Mepham. It held its inaugural public meeting in January
1956. Since then it has maintained a regular programme of meetings
and discussions.
George Mepham exemplified the humanist way of life working tirelessly
for his humanitarian ideals and participated keenly in many
of the voluntary organisations in the borough. He was well known
in and around Sutton for conducting non-religious funerals.
His sudden death in 1995 at the age of 78 sadly prevented him
from witnessing the 40th anniversary of the humanist group to
which he had dedicated most of his free time. His work continues
within the present group although the emphasis has changed because
of the rise of religiosity.
SH also raises funds for charities and holds various social
events for members and friends.
