In today’s increasingly polarized environment, it is increasingly difficult to communicate across the Political Divide and maintain relationships. How do we separate the personal and the political? It is particularly difficult when people that we care about are on the other side. How can we keep relationships with those with such differing versions of truth and reality? How can we connect without compromising our values? Does maintaining relationships lead to complicity in aberrant views? When is confrontation productive or necessary?
Randy Best has been a life-long member of Ethical Culture. Born in St. Louis, Randy grew up attending the St. Louis Ethical Society, where his mother is still an active member. Since 2016, Randy has served as the Leader of the Northern Virginia Ethical Society. He is also Dean of Leader Training for the American Ethical Union. Previously, he was Leader of the Ethical Humanist Society of the Triangle and the Ethical Society Without Walls.
Randy received a B.A. from Grinnell College and a Master’s Degree from Harvard University. He is a graduate of the Humanist Institute, a certified Mediator, and Pastoral Counselor. Randy divides his time between Northern Virginia and Durham North Carolina, where he lives with his wife Sarah Howe, a ceramic artist. They have four grown children whom they homeschooled.
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 the Ethical NYC YouTube channel.
