The New York Society for Ethical Culture

Society Annual Meeting (Members Only)
2023-05-07 11:00 - 12:15 (America/New_York) | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
In-person and online!
Members only. A link to the meeting and online ballot will be provided directly to Society Members.

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 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 Humanist philosophy. Each Sunday meeting is followed by a luncheon and social hour.
To watch previous Sunday Platforms, visit our Videos page and YouTube channel.

Young Ethical Explorers: 'Ethical Roots' with Simba Yangala
2023-05-07 11:00 - 12:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Our dear friend Simba Yangala joins us to focus on Ethical Culture’s founder Felix Adler, and growth through freedom of choice…including our own!
Newcomers are always welcome! To join, please RSVP to Youth Programs Director Audrey Kindred at youngethicalexplorers@gmail.com. For more information about our youth and family programming, please visit www.ethical.nyc/youth.

Young Ethical Explorers is our Humanist Sunday school, designed for youngsters from ages 4 to 13, and takes place concurrent with our Sunday Platform meetings. Sessions raise issues of personal identity and integrity, appreciation and respect for others, and knowledge of religions, philosophies, and social concerns. Topics are explored in an age-appropriate way through discussion, storytelling, dramatization, music, art, games, and field trips.
RSVP is essential to guarantee your place and for planning purposes. If you are enrolled for the season or are members of Ethical NYC your spot is guaranteed. To RSVP as a guest, become a member, or enroll in season, please contact Audrey at YoungEthicalExplorers@gmail.com. Newcomers and visitors are always welcome!

Practical Ethics: 'After You, My Dear Alphonse' by Shirley Jackson (Hybrid)
2023-05-08 14:00 - 15:00 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
In this program we’ll explore the ethics of living by reading a short story that highlights an ethical dilemma. The stories are generally available, and they can also be obtained from the Society approximately two weeks before the session upon request to mdetermann@nysec.org or rkoral@nysec.org.
This month we’ll explore After You, My Dear Alphonse by Shirley Jackson
Facilitated by Leader Richard Koral. 2nd Mondays at 2:00pm, in Room 514 and streamed on Zoom.
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]
COVID-19 Notice: Vaccination is required to attend in-person. Masks are optional but strongly encouraged.

Say Yes to Science with Dr. Carol Portlock (Online)
2023-05-08 17:00 - 18:00 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Thanks to vaccines and other medical innovation, COVID-19 is now endemic.
On 1st and 3rd Mondays at 11am, clinical psychologist Frank Corigliano will continue to address your concerns about managing day-to-day during this trying time.
On 2nd and 4th Mondays at 5pm, retired oncologist Carol Portlock will discuss new and intriguing science in multiple areas, including some relevant to COVID.
Suggested readings:
Long COVID Comprehensive Review
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/05/02/1172806898/why-viral-reservoirs-are-a-prime-suspect-for-long-covid-sleuths
Mammalian Genetics and Evolution
https://www.sciencenews.org/article/findings-zoonomia-project-mammal-genomes
Beyond IVF: Scientists debate ethics of human reproduction without egg and sperm
In Vitro Gametogenesis: Producing Baby Mice from Skin Cells
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/mice-with-two-fathers-researchers-develop-egg-cells-from-male-mice1/
Mammograms Provide Data Regarding Potential Heart Disease
https://newsroom.heart.org/news/mammograms-may-provide-clues-about-womens-risk-for-cardiovascular-disease
Allergies: Reducing Food Allergy Risks
https://www.niaid.nih.gov/diseases-conditions/food-allergy-causes-prevention
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/11/221115113944.htm
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]

You can download Zoom at https://zoom.us/download, although it’s not necessary to do ahead of time. Zoom is available for tablets and smartphones in both main app stores, Apple and Google Android. Attendees don’t need to register for a Zoom account although it’s free and helpful. To join a meeting, simply click the event’s invitation link above.

Board of Trustees Meeting
2023-05-08 17:30 - 20:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Any Society Member who wishes to attend in-person or online via Zoom can contact Executive Director Robert Liebeskind for access, at rliebskind@nysec.org.

Midweek Meditation (Online)
2023-05-09 17:00 - 17:45, 2023-05-16 17:00 - 17:45 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
A midweek meditation for relaxing body and mind. Begins promptly at 5:00pm. Larry Hurst and Sondra Stein moderate.
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]

You can download Zoom at https://zoom.us/download, although it’s not necessary to do ahead of time. Zoom is available for tablets and smartphones in both main app stores, Apple and Google Android. Attendees don’t need to register for a Zoom account although it’s free and helpful. To join a meeting, simply click the event’s invitation link above.
(Photo by Nicollazzi Xiong)

Ethics Unplugged: Our Bodies, Ourselves
2023-05-10 19:00 - 20:00 | Adler Hall, 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Join us in-person and online!
For many women, the book Our Bodies, Ourselves (1970, with many subsequent editions) was a sort of sacred text, a book that introduced us to our own bodies and talked about many sexualities. However, as adults we strayed away from the liberation we felt while reading those sacred words.
Tonight we will kick off our series on Wild and Holy Embodiment and examine ways we can reconnect with our bodies, regardless of our gender, and love our own dear, tender flesh.
Featuring music by Lindsey Wilson!
Join Society Leaders Nori Rost and Jé Hooper for Ethics Unplugged, an exciting reimagining of Ethical Culture, every Wednesday at 7:00pm. Come early for wine and snacks!
May’s Theme: Wild and Holy Embodiment
Join Ethics Unplugged in May as we focus on embodied pleasure. Often, it’s easy for folx engaged in social justice activism to get caught up in the pursuit of justice and forget to appreciate what it means to be embodied and the pleasure we can find in our flesh and bones.
We’ll explore some of the more radical ways our bodies can delight us, as well as explore the power of pleasure in the many forms it reveals itself to us as embodied beings.
As always, we will bring the hermeneutics of ethics to these conversations, remembering there is an ethical practice in the most radical spaces, to engage the most revolutionary acts of pleasure.
Watch Online! Click to Join at Start | Zoom ID 864 8703 7420
Free and open to the public!
COVID-19 Notice: Masks are optional but strongly encouraged.

Leader’s Lunchtime Roundtable: War! What's It Good For? (Hybrid)
2023-05-11 12:00 - 13:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Bring your lunch and join Leader Dr. Nori Rost and members for an engaging round-table discussion on the issues of the day and recommended readings.
Today we will take a look at the war in Ukraine. Initially pundits thought it would be over quickly with Russia quickly gaining dominance over their beleaguered less prepared neighbor. As the war enters its 2nd year what are the lessons? Should we still be support Ukraine? Is this a winnable war for Ukraine?
Suggested Readings:
https://www.npr.org/2023/05/01/1171735312/russia-ukraine-war-news-may-1
https://www.cnn.com/2023/05/03/europe/ukraine-russia-strikes-analysis-intl-cmd/index.html
Free and open to the public!
COVID-19 NOTICE: Masks are optional but strongly encouraged.
Click to join at start time | Zoom ID 861 1417 5760 | Passcode [REDACTED]

Colloquy: Being Present (Online)
2023-05-11 17:00 - 18:00 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Share your reflections on the topic based on quotes, parables, poems, etc. presented by the moderator. There are no right or wrong answers, just your individual response shared in a contemplative atmosphere. This week is led by Leader Dr. Richard Koral
Topic: Being Present
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]

You can download Zoom at https://zoom.us/download, although it’s not necessary to do ahead of time. Zoom is available for tablets and smartphones in both main app stores, Apple and Google Android. Attendees don’t need to register for a Zoom account although it’s free and helpful. To join a meeting, simply click the event’s invitation link above.

Jazz Cafe with Rose Gunter and Friends
2023-05-12 19:00 - 21:00 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Join us for our May Jazz Cafe featuring Rose Gunter, Jerry McDonald, Peter Greco, and Stu Waters. Open mic follows!
Click Here to Purchase Tickets on Eventbrite
Rose Gunter – Vocals
Rose Gunter, President of Rose Productions, is a multi-talented singer, composer, actress and producer with more than 50 original productions to her credit. Her over 25 years’ experience in the music industry has taken her to Europe and India, and she performs continuously in the New York metropolitan area. Rose’s broad stylistic range traverses many genres, from jazz to pop, to indie/world compositions, and her experience with Eastern philosophy, garnered during a period of study in India, has been integrated into her unique approach to performing.
Jerry McDonald – Bass
Jerry is a native LI/NYC bassist who performs on both the upright bass and electric bass. After being introduced to the great Jazz-Fusion bassist Jaco Pastorius, Jerry’s desire to study the tradition of Jazz Music was born. His musical journey, however, has led to many noteworthy performances in both Jazz and Rock genres. Jerry has had the opportunity to perform with Carl Allen, Dan Faulk, Rufus Reid Bass Quartet, Earl Williams, Tim Siciliano, Mark Marino, Tim Regusis, Steve Salerno, Ron Affif, Swingset Quartet, Jack Licitra, and The Al Miller Big Band. He has also toured with vocalist Anastasia Renee and her Quartet in Russia, as well as with Beledo Accoustic Trio in Puerto Rico. He’s played electric bass for Soul Revival, a funk R&B Band, performing at many clubs and events throughout the New York tri-state area and northeastern United States.
Stu Waters – Piano
Stu is an accomplished pianist and vocalist, classically trained in piano at the Juilliard Prep School. Stuart started performing professionally at age 13 when he became involved in jazz and blues. At age 15, he was featured as a rising star on WQXR Radio’s “Young America Plays”. He has performed throughout the United States, and his performance and studio credits include projects with Joe Carbone, Joe Carter, Paula Atherton, Earl Williams, Walter Perkins, James Cammack, Chasey Dean and Rose Gunter.
Peter Greco – Drums
Peter Greco – a New York based drummer has been involved in all areas of the local music scene and drum education for over 30 years. A Modern Drummer Magazine educational video contributor, endorsed and sponsored by drum companies such as Vic Firth, Sabian, Kickport & Hudson Music Video, Peter performs in drum clinics passing on his knowledge and passion for drumming to many an eager audience. Settings you may see him in would be the backing of shows and concerts such as Joe Piscopo, Sal ‘The Voice’ Valentinetti and others in his position as drummer for the 18 piece NMJB jazz band. In addition to a busy performance schedule, Peter has a state-of-the-art multimedia drum studio where he teaches, writes drum books and records instructional videos in an effort to offer the finest in drum lessons and drum education.
Doors at 6:30. Open mic hour follows our featured artist.
$10 Members, $15 non-members at the door. Refreshments available (wine, beer, soda).
Click Here to Purchase Tickets on Eventbrite
About the Ethical NYC Jazz Cafe:
“Wonderful! A step back in time.” -D. Berkowitz, Asheville, NC
“Totally delighted the whole evening! Classic intimate place, delightful people, and energy the whole time!” – W. T., Brentwood, New York, NY
“The venue for the music was wonderful. There were round tables complete with table cloths and nice mood lighting. The chandeliers were dimmed and it was a nightclub atmosphere. The music was excellent and then there was an open mic so I got to see a number of talented neighborhood folks get up and do their thing. Some people even felt moved to dance. I loved it!” -G. Walsh, Fair Lawn NJ

Big Apple Knitters Guild
2023-05-13 13:00 - 16:00 | Social Hall (Lower Level), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
The Big Apple Knitters Guild meets on the second Saturday of every month, from 1 to 4 PM (unless otherwise specified) from September through June. Our general meetings include:

Featured Guest Speakers—learn the latest from experts in the knitting world!
Show and Tell—present your finished projects to an appreciative audience!
Members-Only Raffle—win a skein of luxury yarn at our raffle drawing each month!
Beginners Circle—improve your knitting skills with help from fellow BAKG members!
Charity Knitting Table—knit for those in need!
KALs—join a knit-along and complete a project with the help of friends!

Come and join us! At live meetings, guests are welcome—first visit is free; a nominal guest fee of $5 is charged on subsequent visits. This fee may be applied to annual dues if paid on the meeting day.

Ethics Unplugged: What We Owe the Future
2023-05-14 11:00 - 12:15 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
In-person and online!
Join us on this Sunday morning as Dr. Nori Rost and Dr. Je Hooper bring their wildly popular midweek program to Sunday morning! If you haven’t tuned in to, or attended, the 7 PM program each Wednesday, this will be a great opportunity to experience on Sunday morning.
On the 147th anniversary of Ethical Culture, Nori and Je will discuss the book, What We Owe Our Future by William MacAskill. In this book, MacAskill makes the case for longtermism—an ethical stance which gives priority to improving the long-term future—and proposes that we can make the future better in two ways: “by averting permanent catastrophes, thereby ensuring civilisation’s survival; or by changing civilisation’s trajectory to make it better while it lasts.  According to MacAskill, the present era is a critical juncture:
Few people who ever live will have as much power to positively influence the future as we do. Such rapid technological, social, and environmental change means that we have more opportunity to affect when and how the most important of these changes occur.
Join us as Nori and Je discuss how this relates to our movement and how we can use the lens of longtermism to ensure a thriving, healthy Ethical Movement for the generations to come.
A special treat: Lindsey Wilson, the fabulous musician who accompanies Je and Nori at Ethics Unplugged on Wednesday evenings, will also be joining us this morning.
COVID-19 Notice: Vaccination required. Masks optional but strongly encouraged.
Watch Online: Click to join at start | ID 863 0430 0961 | Passcode [REDACTED]
To join by phone (audio only), dial (929) 205-6099 and enter the Zoom ID above.
Monthly Collection: Planned Parenthood Action Fund

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 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 Humanist philosophy. Each Sunday meeting is followed by a luncheon and social hour.
To watch previous Sunday Platforms, visit our Videos page and YouTube channel.

Young Ethical Explorers: Nurture Day
2023-05-14 11:00 - 12:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Together we’ll explore “mothering” as a verb and the deed of care.
Newcomers are always welcome! To join, please RSVP to Youth Programs Director Audrey Kindred at youngethicalexplorers@gmail.com. For more information about our youth and family programming, please visit www.ethical.nyc/youth.

Young Ethical Explorers is our Humanist Sunday school, designed for youngsters from ages 4 to 13, and takes place concurrent with our Sunday Platform meetings. Sessions raise issues of personal identity and integrity, appreciation and respect for others, and knowledge of religions, philosophies, and social concerns. Topics are explored in an age-appropriate way through discussion, storytelling, dramatization, music, art, games, and field trips.
RSVP is essential to guarantee your place and for planning purposes. If you are enrolled for the season or are members of Ethical NYC your spot is guaranteed. To RSVP as a guest, become a member, or enroll in season, please contact Audrey at YoungEthicalExplorers@gmail.com. Newcomers and visitors are always welcome!

Say Yes to Science with Dr. Frank Corigliano (Online)
2023-05-15 11:00 - 12:00 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Thanks to vaccines and other medical innovation, COVID-19 is now endemic.
On 1st and 3rd Mondays at 11am, clinical psychologist Frank Corigliano will continue to address your concerns about managing day-to-day during this trying time.
On 2nd and 4th Mondays at 5pm, retired oncologist Carol Portlock will discuss new and intriguing science in multiple areas, including some relevant to COVID.
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]

You can download Zoom at https://zoom.us/download, although it’s not necessary to do ahead of time. Zoom is available for tablets and smartphones in both main app stores, Apple and Google Android. Attendees don’t need to register for a Zoom account although it’s free and helpful. To join a meeting, simply click the event’s invitation link above.

Norman Siegel: The First Amendment and Free Speech
2023-05-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
FREE in-person and online!
Join us for an evening exploring the First Amendment and free speech with Norman Siegel, celebrated civil rights attorney and advocate.
This wide ranging discussion will touch on free speech controversies on college campuses, hate speech, inciting to violence, and more. Mr. Siegel will also be available after his talk to address questions and to allow people to speak to him individually.
Click here to RSVP to attend IN-PERSON
Click here to register to watch ONLINE
About Norman Siegel
Norman Siegel is the former executive director of the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU), New York’s leading civil rights organization, as well as a noted civil rights and civil liberties lawyer. Norman is a graduate of Brooklyn College (1965) and New York University School of Law (1968).
Norman’s law career has focused on cases dealing with voting rights, civil liberties, and civil rights. In the early 1970s, as field director of the NYCLU, he spearheaded the historic New York campaigns for both the impeachment of President Richard M. Nixon and passage of the New York State Equal Rights Amendment. From 1985 to 2000, Norman served as executive director of NYCLU. In this capacity, he was on the frontline in some of New York City’s most critical civil rights and civil liberties struggles; the creation of an independent Civilian Complaint Review Board; the successful defense of the Brooklyn Museum’s right to exhibit controversial art; the fight for citizens’ access to the steps of City Hall; the battle against involuntary hospitalization of people with mental illness; the struggle for improved community-police relations and greater accountability on the part of the NYPD. In private practice since 2002, Norman’s work in civil rights and civil liberties law continues.
Born in New York City and raised in Brooklyn, Norman graduated from NYC public schools and is committed to restoring excellence in public education. Norman and his wife, Saralee Evans live on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.

Cancelled - Ethics in the News
2023-05-16 11:00 - 12:00 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Notice: This week’s session is cancelled.
********
Join in the lively give-and-take on compelling issues and current events and bring your own ideas. Member Joe Fashing moderates.
Topic and suggested readings TBA.
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]
To join by phone (audio only), dial (929) 205-6099 and enter the Zoom ID above.

Lunch with The League: 'The Privatization of American Healthcare' with Dr. Cheryl Kunis
2023-05-16 12:00 - 14:00 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
“Beware of the Medical-Industrial Complex!”
Nationwide more than 30 million people – or half of eligible Medicare beneficiaries – are enrolled in private healthcare plans called Medicare Advantage. Recently NYC shifted 250,000 retirees and their dependents to a for profit Medicare Advantage plan. Is this good healthcare or good only for business? Our speaker will discuss.
Dr. Cheryl Kunis, M.D., M.S., is Clinical Professor of Medicine Emerita at Columbia University, Adjunct Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Member of the Mount Sinai Independent Physicians’ Association, Bioethicist for PRIDE at NYU & Downstate Medical Centers.
Lunch and Beverages included – $20/pre-registration, $25/at door
Click Here to Purchase Tickets on Eventbrite!
Beware of the Medical-Industrial Complex: The Fight to Save Medicare
Watch Cheryl’s March 2022 webinar for Ethical NYC:

Camaraderie and Conversation with Leader Joe Chuman: The Moral Center is Fighting Back on Elite College Campuses (Online)
2023-05-16 19:00 - 20:00 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Leader Dr. Joe Chuman leads this monthly discussion group focusing on contemporary issues and occasionally classical writings relating to Ethical Culture and Humanism. We will primarily make use of articles from journals of opinion and book chapters when relevant. Rather than taking a merely journalistic approach, the discussions will aim to illuminate the philosophical concepts and values which underlie the issues being discussed. 3rd Tuesdays.
Suggested reading:
The Moral Center is Fighting Back on Elite College Campuses by David French – The New York Times
Click here to join at start time | Zoom ID 853 3773 6864 | Passcode [REDACTED]

You can download Zoom at https://zoom.us/download, although it’s not necessary to do ahead of time. Zoom is available for tablets and smartphones in both main app stores, Apple and Google Android. Attendees don’t need to register for a Zoom account although it’s free and helpful. To join a meeting, simply click the event’s invitation link above.

Speaking of Science with Dr. Nirupa J. Raghunathan: 'Cannabis and Pain: Truths and Mysteries' (Online)
2023-05-17 19:00 - 20:00 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Join us for Speaking of Science, our monthly series exploring current discoveries and debates in science.
Board certified in Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, Dr. Raghunathan has experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in both cancer survivorship and integrative medicine. She is the Director of Pediatric Integrative Medicine (Peds IM), with a consultative practice as well as oversight of the Peds IM program; she also has a CBD/medical cannabis consultative service where she provides background and counsels around the use of cannabis for management of symptoms related to cancer and cancer treatment.
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 889 8668 1869 | Passcode [REDACTED]
To join by phone (audio only), dial (929) 205-6099 and enter the Zoom ID above.

Ethics Unplugged: Sexual Ethics with El/yse Ambrose, Ph.D. (Online)
2023-05-17 19:00 - 20:00 | Adler Hall, 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Notice: This week’s session will be held online only.
Join us for this special Ethics Unplugged with our special guest, Dr. El/yse Ambrose, a Queer sexual ethicist who will join us to discuss how we can all navigate the pleasures of sex with integrity and joy.
Featuring music by Lindsey Wilson!

El/yse Ambrose, Ph.D. (they/them)* is a blackqueer ethicist, creative, and educator whose research, art, and teaching lie at the intersections of race, sexuality, gender, and spirituality/religion. Ambrose’s forthcoming book, A Living Archive: Embodying a Blackqueer Ethics (T&T Clark [London], Enquiries in Embodiment, Sexuality, and Social Ethics series) offers a construction of a communal-based ethics of sexuality and grounded in blackqueer archive. Their artistic work-in-progress, mycountryboy|what do i know, is a photo-sonic study of Ambrose’s paternal roots that addresses themes of place, opacities, monstrosity, and religion.
Ambrose’s most recent completed photo-sonic exhibition, “Spirit in the Dark Body: Black Queer Expressions of the Im/material,” premiered in November 2019 during the annual meeting of the American Academy of Religion at the L Street Fine Arts Gallery (San Diego, CA) and has shown at the House of Mark West (Bronx, NY)— one of the few black queer-owned galleries in the country. Ambrose currently serves as Assistant Professor of Religious Studies and Black Study at the University of California, Riverside. Their research has been supported by the Louisville Institute for the Study of American Religion, the Forum for Theological Exploration, Columbia University’s Center on African American Religion, Sexual Politics, and Social Justice, the Henry Luce Foundation, the Yale University LGBT Studies Fellowship, Auburn Seminary and CrossCurrents Journal.
Ambrose’s work and commentary have been featured in the Huffington Post, the Christian Century and their podcast Contemplating Now, Medium, ForHarriet.com, Vice, and CBC Radio One’s Tapestry. Ambrose’s research interests include black religion, religious ethics, religion and social change, queer and trans studies in religion, Africana spiritual traditions of the U.S. South, and blackqueer cultural history and production. Elyse Ambrose resides in Southern California. They are a proud plant sibling and parakeet parent.
May’s Theme: Pro-Pleasure Activism
This month at Ethics Unplugged we’ll be focusing on embodied pleasure. Often, it’s easy for folx engaged in social justice activism to get caught up in the pursuit of justice and forget to appreciate what it means to be embodied, and the pleasure we can find in our flesh and bones.
We’ll explore some of the more radical ways our bodies can delight us, and the power of physical pleasure in the many forms in which its revealed to us as embodied beings. As always, we will bring the hermeneutics of ethics to these conversations, remembering that there is an ethical practice in even the most radical spaces, and in the most revolutionary acts of pleasure.
Watch Online! Click to Join at Start | Zoom ID 864 8703 7420
In-person and online! Join Society Leaders Nori Rost and Jé Hooper for Ethics Unplugged, an exciting reimagining of Ethical Culture, every Wednesday at 7:00pm. Come early for wine and snacks!
Free and open to the public!
COVID-19 Notice: Masks are optional but strongly encouraged.

Great Literature Discussion: 'Elmer Gantry' by Sinclair Lewis (Online)
2023-05-17 19:00 - 21:00 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Literary works will be discussed based on what can be found in the text in order to enrich each other’s interpretation of the novel/novella. All are welcome to join and any edition or translation of the book under discussion can be used. Read the work in advance and be prepared to discuss the aspects of interest to you by referring to specific related text and reading it to the group. Moderated by Ethical NYC member Gunther Tielemans. 1st and 3rd Wednesdays.
Details TBA.
For access information, please contact Gunther.

Leader’s Lunchtime Roundtable: Parental Rights or Property Rights? You Decide. (Hybrid)
2023-05-18 12:00 - 13:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Bring your lunch and join Leader Dr. Nori Rost and members for an engaging round-table discussion on the issues of the day and recommended readings.
Much has been made of newly back in vogue “parental rights” movement that is enjoying popularity in states such as Florida, Arkansas, and South Dakota. This shows up as anti-trans legislation, rolling back protections in child labor laws, and avowing that hungry children are not the concern of the state but a result of bad parenting. How should we ethically respond?
Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Historic Bill to Protect Parental Rights in Education (flgov.com)
Children Are Not Property (nymag.com) (Full disclosure and not just to name-drop, this op-ed was written by non other than Sarah Jones, ace reporter and wife of our own Ed Beck. For extra credit, read this vitriolic response by the Post: NY Mag op-ed blasting parental rights movement sparks fury (nypost.com))
Free and open to the public!
COVID-19 NOTICE: Masks are optional but strongly encouraged.
Click to join at start time | Zoom ID 861 1417 5760 | Passcode [REDACTED]

American Folk Art Museum Benefit Concert With Lonnie Holley's Universe of Friends
2023-05-18 19:00 - 22:00 | Adler Hall, 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
The American Folk Art Museum (AFAM) is thrilled to celebrate multi-faceted Lonnie Holley at a special fundraising concert: “Lonnie Holley and His Universe.” Holley is a powerful visual artist represented in AFAM’s collection, as well as an internationally renowned musician. The concert will be hosted by Harvey Fierstein, with a special appearance by David Byrne, and will include special performances by Mourning [A] BLKstar, Marshall Allen of the Sun Ra Arkestra, and Suzanne Vega. Holley will also collaborate with American fashion designer Emily Adams Bode Aujla, founder of Bode, on creating a custom outfit for the show.
We are thrilled to celebrate Holley’s newest album, Oh Me, Oh My, features Bon Iver, R.E.M.’s Michael Stipe, and Sharon Van Etten, among others. The evening will celebrate Holley’s visual and musical talents and explore his collaborative spirit with other musicians, which has led to more than six full-length albums.
AFAM is the leading institution for folk art across time and place, showcasing artists and artworks that followed non-traditional paths and were previously overlooked by the mainstream artworld. For more than 60 years, the Museum has been a champion of self-taught artists and artworks that otherwise would not have been collected, celebrated, exhibited, and studied. Proceeds from the concert will support the mission of the American Folk Art Museum.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS ON EVENTBRITE!
If you are unable to join us and want to be part of our celebration, please donate here.
Patron Row Seating for Six $7,500
When purchasing a row, you will receive one ticket for all six seats. The six seats will be in consecutive order as indicated on the seating map.
Prime seating for six guests for the price of five ($1,500 savings!)
Exclusive cocktail hour before the concert for six guests*
Meet and greet with Lonnie Holley after the concert for six guests
Limited Edition Lonnie Holley artist print for six guests
Listing in all concert-related materials
Patron Ticket $1,500
Prime seating for one guest
Exclusive cocktail hour before the concert*
Meet and greet with Lonnie Holley after the concert
Limited Edition Lonnie Holley artist print
Listing in all concert-related materials
Friend Ticket $250
Orchestra seating for one guest
Limited Edition Lonnie Holley artist print
General Admission $75

Performance and Talkback with Eco-Artist-in-Residence Jody Sperling and the Time Lapse Dance Ensemble
2023-05-19 19:00 - 20:30 | Adler Hall, 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
The New York Society for Ethical Culture presents a stunning evening of ecologically-themed works by Eco-Artist-in-Residence Jody Sperling and the Time Lapse Dance ensemble.
The program, which showcases the climate-engaged collaboration between Sperling and environmental composer Matthew Burtner, features excerpts from Arbor, a new work-in-progress dwelling on the relationship between trees and people. The evening also includes repertory highlights from: Wind Rose, which renders changing atmospheric patterns palpable to sight, sound, and touch; Plastic Harvest, exploring the proliferation of plastic pollution; and Sperling’s whirling meditation on planetary motion, Piece for a Northern Sky. The performance will be followed by an artist talkback.
FREE – Click here to RSVP on Eventbrite!
Dancers: Frances Barker, Anika Hunter, Maki Kitahara, Nicole Lemelin, Jody Sperling, Sarah Tracy and Rathi Varma
“Sperling was a master of stage presence as she evoked the deep-rooted majesty of the tree” —Fjord Review
“a folk dance for the 21st Century”—Dance Enthusiast
“…the extent of its power can be hypnotic” —World Policy Institute
This program is supported, in part, by an eco-artist residency with the New York Society for Ethical Culture and with public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.

Saving Afghans, One Girl at a Time: Interview with Meg Chapman and Sr. Catherine Patten
2023-05-21 11:00 - 12:15 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
In-person and online!
For our platform on May 21, Leader Joe Chuman will be interviewing Meg Chapman, Member and former President of the Society, on a program she is leading to bring five imperiled Afghan girls to safety in New York. The girls, who are musicians, artists, and aspiring scientists, fled Kabul when their schools were closed and destroyed by the Taliban. Meg will be joined by Sister Catherine Patten, R.S.H.M., Ph.D., a trustee of Marymount Manhattan College who is working to create placements for the girls in schools in New York City.
The girls currently reside in Pakistan, where their situation is unstable, and seek to come to the United States so that they can continue their education. They would like to complete high school and college, both of which are forbidden for girls in current day Afghanistan.
Meg has long been involved in supporting Afghan children, including since the takeover in August 2022. Her focus has been on women and girls who have been oppressed and are endangered. Meg will begin by examining the situation women currently face in Afghanistan, and then turn to the specifics of this rescue effort.
We’re pleased to work with Meg on this important initiative that has brought together educators and others, and this Platform will launch the Ethical Society’s active support in this life saving effort.
COVID-19 Notice: Vaccination required. Masks optional but strongly encouraged.
Watch Online: Click to join at start | ID 863 0430 0961 | Passcode [REDACTED]
To join by phone (audio only), dial (929) 205-6099 and enter the Zoom ID above.
Monthly Collection: Planned Parenthood Action Fund

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 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 Humanist philosophy. Each Sunday meeting is followed by a luncheon and social hour.
To watch previous Sunday Platforms, visit our Videos page and YouTube channel.

Young Ethical Explorers: AIDS Walk NY 2023
2023-05-21 11:00 - 12:30 | Adler Study (514), 2 W 64th St., New York, NY, 10023, United States
Taking part in the annual AIDS Walk New York is an Ethical NYC tradition led by our Young Ethical Explorers. Please consider supporting our 2023 team by donating, sharing, and joining us on the walk on Sunday, May 22 at 11:00am!
Here’s how you can support our team:

Sponsor Our Team by Giving: Click here to donate to our team at the AIDS Walk New York website. Please give what you’re comfortable with–the amount is not nearly as important as your joining us to support such an important cause. Our goal is $500.

Become a Team Member and Share With Your Friends: At the AIDS Walk New York website, click “Join Our Team,” choose the option you’re comfortable with, then share our team page on social media and ask your friends to pitch in and join.

Walk the Walk With Us: All are welcome to join us anywhere on the route. To join, please contact Youth Programs Director Audrey Kindred at youngethicalexplorers@gmail.com.

Thank you for your support, and we hope to see you in Central Park!
For more information about our youth and family programming, please visit ethical.nyc/youth.
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Newcomers are always welcome! To join, please RSVP to Youth Programs Director Audrey Kindred at youngethicalexplorers@gmail.com. For more information about our youth and family programming, please visit www.ethical.nyc/youth.

Young Ethical Explorers is our Humanist Sunday school, designed for youngsters from ages 4 to 13, and takes place concurrent with our Sunday Platform meetings. Sessions raise issues of personal identity and integrity, appreciation and respect for others, and knowledge of religions, philosophies, and social concerns. Topics are explored in an age-appropriate way through discussion, storytelling, dramatization, music, art, games, and field trips.
RSVP is essential to guarantee your place and for planning purposes. If you are enrolled for the season or are members of Ethical NYC your spot is guaranteed. To RSVP as a guest, become a member, or enroll in season, please contact Audrey at YoungEthicalExplorers@gmail.com. Newcomers and visitors are always welcome!

Ethics and the Theater: A Kid Like Jake
2023-05-21 13:30 - 15:30, 2023-05-22 19:00 - 21:00 | Ceremonial Hall (4th Floor), 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
“[A] smart, fluent drama…Mr. Pearle has found an intriguing subject of real currency, and one that stirs our natural sympathy.” —The New York Times

“A KID LIKE JAKE is a searching, keenly perceptive look at how the nature-versus-nurture question can play out on the front lines of tolerance today.” —Time Out New York
“Daniel Pearle’s polished new dramedy…is full of perceptive details about the intense world of affluent parenting, where every child is gifted and the struggle for dominance begins at home.” —New York Magazine
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Our long-running staged reading and talkback series continues on May 21 and 22nd with two performances of Daniel Pearle’s A Kid Like Jake directed by Katrin Hilbe:
Alex and Greg are facing their child’s big test: admission to kindergarten. Much seems to hang on getting into the right one, and the competition is fierce. They write essays, they coach their son for the ERB. But should they play what may be their ace: his growing interest in transgender play?
After the performance, we’ll host a lively discussion of the ethical issues raised by the play.
Click here to purchase tickets for Sunday, May 21 at 1:30pm
Click here to purchase tickets for Monday, May 22 at 7:00pm
Performed by Kari Swenson Riely, Ben Sumrall, Patricia Bruder Debrovner, Maggie Determann, and Bonnie Bean. Directed by Katrin Hilbe. Written by Daniel Pearle. Produced by Patricia Bruder Debrovner.
Suggested Donation: Members $10; Non-Members $15
COVID-19 Notice: Vaccination is required to attend. Masks are optional but strongly encouraged.

Say Yes to Science with Dr. Carol Portlock
2023-05-22 17:00 - 18:00 | 2 W 64th St, New York, NY, 10023, United States
Thanks to vaccines and other medical innovation, COVID-19 is now endemic.
On 1st and 3rd Mondays at 11am, clinical psychologist Frank Corigliano will continue to address your concerns about managing day-to-day during this trying time.
On 2nd and 4th Mondays at 5pm, retired oncologist Carol Portlock will discuss new and intriguing science in multiple areas, including some relevant to COVID.
Suggested readings:
Climate change “progress”
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/may/09/mind-boggling-methane-emissions-from-turkmenistan-revealed
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/08/business/energy-environment/norway-electric-vehicles.html
Cancer screening recommendations, pro and con
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/09/health/mammograms-frequency-women.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/08/health/prostate-cancer-screening.html
Alzheimer’s Disease: Genetic mutation ‘benefit’ and new drug approval
https://www.sciencenews.org/article/rare-mutation-alzheimers-gene
https://www.npr.org/2023/05/04/1173905142/eli-lilly-says-an-experimental-drug-slows-alzheimers-worsening
Vaccine against pancreatic cancer shows promise
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/05/10/health/pancreatic-cancer-vaccine-mrna.html
Click to join at start | Zoom ID 838 1778 1084 | Passcode [REDACTED]

You can download Zoom at https://zoom.us/download, although it’s not necessary to do ahead of time. Zoom is available for tablets and smartphones in both main app stores, Apple and Google Android. Attendees don’t need to register for a Zoom account although it’s free and helpful. To join a meeting, simply click the event’s invitation link above.
