On this past Sunday afternoon I had the privilege of presenting a program on polyamory to the Washington Area Secular Humanists. One of their organizers reached out to me a couple of months ago, said that a fair number of members were interested in hearing more about polyamory, and invited me to speak at an upcoming monthly gathering. Though I knew that some attendees probably weren't going to be entirely comfortable with this idea, I felt it important to take advantage of this opportunity to raise awareness of polyamory, especially with a group that rejects the oppressiveness of organized religion and dogma. Their values make them potential allies.
About 40 people turned out. They were polite, respectful, and asked good questions. My basic poly 101 presentation was enhanced so as to include some detail on the ethics of polyamory. Secular Humanists highly value ethical behavior, so it was important to demonstrate how it is that polyamory is an ethical manner in which to conduct one's intimate relationships.
The WASH representatives very kindly permitted me to briefly introduce Michael Rios and Sarah Taub of Network for a New Culture and Ricci Levi of The Woodhull Freedom Foundation, very different organizations that nevertheless both welcome and support polyamorous people. They also announced the event on the Chesapeake Polyamory Network yahoogroup and invited people to attend, which I especially appreciated. It was nice to see some local poly community members and CPN representatives there, some of whom very kindly volunteered to help me field questions during the break and after the program ended.
Thanks to Don, Shelley, and everyone with WASH for their kindness and support!.
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