HUMANIST ASSOCIATION OF CANADA       The Humanist Association of Canada (HAC) is a national, not-for-profit charitable organization that promotes secular Humanism. It was founded in Montreal in 1968 as a small, but active lobby group advocating for women’s rights. The organization has since grown in scope and membership and includes affiliates in several regions of Canada. The Humanist Association of Canada stands for ethics, reason, critical thinking, equality,   PURPOSE OF HAC   To uphold Humanist values such as honesty, compassion, reason, critical thinking, and cooperation, in every facet of human interdependence To support Humanists and Humanist-focused organizations in Canada by promoting their efforts To provide secular ceremonies for important rites of passage such as weddings and funerals through our Officiant program To support and promote initiatives and programs that advance Humanist culture and ethics To strengthen our position of keeping religion and government separate at all levels of government.   WHAT DOES HAC DO?   ·       Develops educational initiatives that advance critical-thinking and humanist culture ·       Produces “Canadian Humanist News” (CHN) - a quarterly newsletter showcasing news and events across the nation. ·       Trains and certifies qualified Humanist Officiants to perform secular ceremonies for marriages, funerals, and baby welcoming ceremonies. ·       Fosters socializing opportunities for members by way of online discussion forums, national annual events, and promotion of regional Humanist events across the nation ·       Advocates equality for Humanists on marriage, civil rights, health and education issues, through press releases, petitions and events ·       Facilitates the efforts of its members and affiliates by way of grants *, website hosting and online event advertising ·       Supports like-minded organizations that benefit humanity and the Earth   Join us on the August long weekend for the largest Humanist conference ever held in Canada!   DARWIN & HUMANISM: 40 Years of Evolution Saturday August 2 - Sunday August 3, 2008 InterContinental Yorkville Hotel 220 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario (across the street from the Royal Ontario Museum)   *** Click here for details ***   * Freethought TV is grateful to the Humanist Association of Canada for its generous donation in June 2008!