AEU All-Society Platform: “W.E.B. Du Bois: Will the Truth Set You Free?” (Online)

On February 7, 1949, renowned scholar and civil rights activist Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois gave a speech (the written version unearthed by our own Carolyn Parker) at the New York Society for Ethical Culture. We will be listening to a reading of this historic address as Dr. Du Bois speaks about the importance of acknowledging the hardships that African Americans have faced as well as their contributions to this country’s success.

This historic address is consistent with the resolution passed at the 2017 AEU Assembly titled “Toward Repairing the Harm of Racism.” There, the AEU stated its goal of addressing racial inequality by examining the effects that racial discrimination has had and continue to have on people of color. Dr. Du Bois’ address echoes this sentiment, a timeless reminder that we cannot create a better future without looking into the past. This event will take place virtually on Zoom on Sunday, January 30th, at 11am Eastern Time with Dennis D. Parker reading Dr. Du Bois’ speech. We hope to see you there!

We are excited to have Dennis D. Parker of the National Center for Law and Economic Justice (NCLEJ) do the verbal reenactment of Dr. Du Bois’ address. Prior to his work at the NCLEJ, he fought for racial equality on behalf of other social justice-focused organizations like the ACLU and NAACP. Dennis has also published multiple pieces on civil rights including articles and books as well as teaching the subject as an adjunct professor at Columbia Law School/Teachers College and NYU Law School.

Special thanks to the volunteer planners of the 1/30 All-Society Platform: Susan Solomon of the Ethical Society of Northern Westchester, Carolyn Parker of the Ethical Society of Austin, Taty Sena of the Brooklyn Society For Ethical Culture, and Joanna Brandt of the Baltimore Ethical Society!

Notice: Only fully-vaccinated individuals are invited to attend in-person at this time.

Click to Join at Start | Zoom ID 891 9333 5697

Presider: Leader Dr. Nori Rost

Shared Charity: Students for Justice

Sunday Platform is our most important and long-standing community event. These gatherings educate, stimulate personal growth, inspire reflection and action, and strengthen our community. Sunday meetings usually begin with music, followed by greetings and a talk given by a Society Leader, member, or guest.  Platforms cover a variety of topics that reflect current events, pressing social issues, and Ethical Culture philosophy. A collection basket is passed and money is shared between the Society and a charity selected for that day.  While contributions are always appreciated, Sunday meetings are free and open to the public.  Each Sunday meeting is followed by a luncheon and social hour.

To view previous Sunday Platform addresses and interviews, visit our Videos page and YouTube channel.