Past Meeting Topics

“Is it Just? Is it Justice?”

September 15, 2019

Presented by Todd Williams

Buncombe County District Attorney, Todd Williams, conducted a wide-ranging discussion on the results and challenges in seeking safety, justice, victim support, accountability and transparency, while reducing recidivism, reducing the jail population, tackling the opioid crisis and fostering effective diversion programs for non-violent offenders aimed at treatment, rehabilitation and alternatives to incarceration.

Todd Williams worked for nearly 15 years as a public defender before winning election as District Attorney in 2014 and again in 2018. Before turning to the law, Todd taught English as a second language and taught adult basic skills to textile workers, immigrants, and the homeless. That experience led Todd to pursue a career in social justice through public service law. He has a BA in English from UNC-Chapel Hill and a JD from Northeastern University School of Law.

“Hunger is No Game”

August 18, 2019

Presented by Chad Conaty

The Hunger Games trilogy depicted a fictional dystopian society of wealth and poverty, but in our and every community, hunger is no game.  Chad Conaty, from Manna FoodBank, discussed the scope of food insecurity issues in Western North Carolina and the progress, programs, policies and advocacy efforts aimed at meeting one of humanity’s most basic of needs. Chad also discussed issues surrounding food cycling, reducing waste, improving nutrition, combating food deserts, Federal and State anti-hunger programs, and the role of Manna FoodBank.

Chad B. Conaty, Director of Philanthropic Engagement, has worked and volunteered in the non-profit sector for more than 15 years and joined MANNA FoodBank in 2016.  He has served as a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer in Zambia and returned to lead a non-profit social enterprise, Alive and Kicking.  He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree at West Virginia University and an MBA with Honors at the University of Birmingham in England.  He thoroughly enjoys working for MANNA and the quality of life that the Asheville area provides for him and his family.

“Compassion Consciousness”

July 21, 2019

Presented by Jeff Jones

Most of us have some fairly habitual ways of responding to conflict, disagreement, or a comment that triggers us.  What would it take to bring a different consciousness to these situations?  Jeff Jones offered key ideas to guide us in responding and reacting in a non-traditional way.  The ideas and suggestions Jeff articulated are grounded in the key goals, assumptions, and objectives of Nonviolent Communication.

Jeff Jones, a Unitarian Universalist community minister, ordained in 1998, is a recent appointee to the Asheville Transit Committee, an advocate for public transportation and a Compassionate Communication instructor at UNC-Asheville OLLI.  He served congregations in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and Marietta, Georgia, before moving to Asheville in June 2017.

“Asheville’s Diversity at Risk”

June 16, 2019

Presented by Gene Bell

Asheville Housing Authority CEO, Gene Bell, explored the challenges a progressive city like Asheville faces in keeping ethnic diversity and not becoming a retirement community and tourist destination for affluent white people.

Communities of color that carry scars of employment, housing and educational discrimination may also face hard-to-overcome circumstances such as insufficient educational background for today’s jobs, lack of affordable childcare, transportation constraints, misdemeanor convictions from recreational drug use and many other challenges.  The Asheville African-American population has shrunk from 18 to 12 percent and continues to recede.  How Asheville responds to issues of racial and social justice will have a major impact on the future diversity of our city.  Gene has bold recommendations and will talk about some actions already underway at the Asheville Housing Authority and other organizations.

Gene Bell has been with the Asheville Housing Authority since 1994, and CEO since 2005. He also serves as chairman of the Buncombe County Planning Board, is on the Board of AB Tech Community College, is the President of the NC Housing Authority Directors Association, is a trustee for the NC Housing Authority Risk and Retention Pool (NCHARRP) and is on the Board of Directors of Muddy Sneakers.  He has served as Chair of the Asheville City School Board, was on the board of the UNC Center for Public Television (UNC-TV), United Way, the YMI Cultural Center, the Drug Commission, the Weed and Seed Program, and the Advisory Committee for Economic Development.  Prior to moving to Asheville, Gene was director of technical services for the Charlotte Housing Authority, was a partner in a family-owned remodeling and construction company, and for 20 years held various upper-management positions in manufacturing, personnel and marketing with IBM.  Gene has a degree in Business Management from Xavier University.

“How Can A Capitalistic Democracy Offer a Strong Social Safety Net? Sweden: Myths and Realities”

May 19, 2019

Presented by Julie Snyder

Contrary to common perception, Sweden is not a socialist country.  However, Sweden is a capitalistic democracy with a vibrant business and entrepreneurial sector and a robust social safety net.  How does progressive Sweden manage to stay in the top rankings of international leader boards for quality of life, the environment, innovation, global competitiveness, equality, low levels of corruption, and more?  And Sweden is the first country in the world to formulate and pursue a “feminist” foreign policy!  About 17 percent of Sweden’s population of over ten million is foreign-born.  What does all this mean for the Swedes?  As the political debate on the pros and cons of progressive policies gains momentum in the U.S., what can we learn from Sweden?

Julie Snyder is a retired U.S. diplomatic with over 30 years of experience in the field of international trade with postings at U.S. consulates and embassies in Canada, Japan, South Korea, Kazakhstan, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Sweden.  Julie is currently researching and writing a book on Sweden.  She is a lecturer on international trade topics for the World Affairs Council of Western North Carolina and teaches courses related to Sweden and international trade at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute on the campus of UNC Asheville.

“How High Should the Wall Be? – Immigration Myths and Realities”

April 21, 2019

Presented by Mark Gibney

From the controversy over President Trump’s proposed border wall, to the dispute over DACA, to court challenges of immigration quotas, U.S. immigration policy has been at the forefront of political debate.  While, the cheeky question of “How High Should the Wall Be?” is meant to invoke a smile, the seriousness and complexity of the topic requires a knowledgeable exploration of Immigration Myths and Realities.

Mark Gibney explored key questions of immigration law and policy.  Who determines whether someone is a refugee or a migrant? How have different countries, including the United States, reacted to people migration?  What, if anything, is different in the 21^stcentury?

Dr. Mark Gibneyis the Belk Distinguished Professor at UNCA in the Political Science Department, an Affiliated Professor at the Raoul Wallenberg Institute in Lund, Sweden and an internationally recognized expert on human rights and immigration matters who has authored numerous books and articles on those and other subjects.

“The Matrix of Distraction”

March 17, 2019

Presented by Michael J. S. Carter

With a constant barrage of distractions, how we live our lives during this turbulent time is entirely up to us.  Everyone resides in a “Matrix of Distraction.” How we cope matters.

Rev. Michael J. Carter is an anti-racism trainer, recognized by President Clinton for his efforts, is an ordained Inter-faith minister and adjunct professor. He has a BA from the College of New Rochelle, a Masters In Divinity from Union Theological Seminary and has worked with UNC-A, Mission Health and various local businesses to assist them enhance their anti-racism and diversity agendas. He currently serves as the minister for the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of The Swannanoa Valley and as an adjunct professor at Western Carolina University. Michael is from Baltimore, MD and worked for 25 years in New York City as a professional actor before moving to Asheville with his family in 2005.

“Can You Trust The Media? – Ethics, Consumerism & Democracy”

February 17, 2019

Presented by Cynthia Berryman-Fink

Cindy examined the role and influence of the media in U.S. history and culture; discussed how each of us is shaped by newspapers, magazines, books, television, movies, radio, the internet and social media; and explored how we can be informed consumers of media.

Cindy was a professor of communication at the University of Cincinnati for 31 years. She taught courses in interpersonal, group, management, gender, and leadership communication. Cindy published six books and more than forty articles and was a communication consultant to corporate, non-profit, educational and government organizations. She also frequently teaches at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute on the campus of UNC-Asheville.

“A Freethinker’s Gospel”

January 20, 2019

Presented by Chris Highland

Writer and teacher Chris Highland read from and discussed his new book, A Freethinker’s Gospel. It may be a strange and startling title, but the theme of building bridges between people with or without faith permeates the collection of essays. Chris explored his journey from faith to freethinking and how positive, constructive, inviting and liberating that journey has been. He also offered his vision for a natural, humanistic way forward based on cooperation and collaboration between believers and nonbelievers.

Author of a dozen books, Chris writes the weekly “Highland Views” columns for the Citizen-Times. As a former minister and interfaith chaplain, he is now a freethinking Humanist celebrant teaching courses on Freethought at UNCA (OLLI) and Blue Ridge Community College. His wife Carol is a Presbyterian minister, certified Enneagram teacher and former director of the Marin Interfaith Council. Chris and Carol live in Asheville. Learn more: www.chighland.com .

“Winterfest” – Holiday Celebration and Potluck Dinner

December 16, 2018

Lead by Gloria Cosgrove-Smith

Stories, Readings, Discussion and Reflection

We’ll have poetry, fun, games and food
Wear a fantastic hat to help create the mood
Or a tie or sweater if you wish
Just come and bring a delicious dish
And if you have a favorite poem or song
Yes, please do bring that along!

“Home is the Key”

November 18, 2018

Presented by Andy Barnett

Andy Barnett discussed the housing challenges facing our community with examples of potential solutions both here and in other communities. Topics included Asheville’s growth pressures, displacement of traditional residents, the housing needs of an aging population and the environmental challenges of poor quality housing stock.

Where we live has an impact on our quality of life, health, wealth and access to opportunity. Andy believes a stable home in a vibrant neighborhood is the foundation for community success. He also discussed where Habitat for Humanity fits within the landscape of housing solutions.

Andy Barnett, the Executive Director of Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, is a leader in the field of housing issues and solutions. Andy graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Housing Studies. He started his career in affordable housing by helping establish a Habitat affiliate in Rockingham County, NC in 1993 and was with the Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity for nearly 14 years. Prior to moving to Asheville, Andy was the Coordinating Consultant for the Frogtown Rondo Home Fund, a collaboration of over 30 community, philanthropic, and local government organizations focused on addressing residents’ most pressing housing needs.

“Conversations with America: Confronting the Divisive Challenges of Our Time”

October 21, 2018

Presented by Randy Bell

Author Randy Bell raised questions about what it means to be an American in the early 21st century.

In his latest book “Conversations With America: Confronting The Divisive Challenges Of Our Time,” Randy Bell presents a series of essays that give insight into some of the important issues facing America today. In his presentation to EHSA, he discussed the need for a new kind of balanced conversation built upon respectful speaking and informed listening that will help us in the continuing development of our individual perspectives regarding America’s future.

Randy Bell has published fourteen books and blogs on both social and spiritual topics. He is a frequent presenter at retreats and conferences. His spiritual journey emanates from the teachings of Buddha, Lao-Tzu, Jesus of Nazareth, the Dalai Lama, Sharon Salzberg, Lama Surya Das, among others. He has been a Zen practitioner for over 40 years. Following a 30-year career in higher education as a teacher, administrator, consultant and trainer in colleges across the United States, Randy founded and directed Spring Creek Spirituality Center in Western NC. He now leads the McKee Learning Foundation, a publishing organization.

September 16, 2018 Presentation was Canceled due to Hurricane Florence and rescheduled for November 18, 2018

“Wilma Dykeman: The Mountain South’s Great Humanist of the 20th Century”

August 19, 2018

Presented by Jim Stokely

Jim presented perspectives on becoming the best we can be as individuals and as a society through the writings, lectures and personal story of best-selling novelist Wilma Dykeman. (Jim Stokely is Wilma Dykeman’s son.)

Wilma Dykeman was an early pioneer in environmental thinking, civil rights, Appalachian studies, summer institutes for teachers, birth control, and feminism. As a humanist, Wilma was less interested in our place in some great chain of being, but more interested in our current task: Now that we’re here, what should we do?

Jim began with a 20-minute video of Wilma’s life in her own words, followed by a talk and discussion about her influences, her personal life challenges, cautionary tales in her novels, along with never-before-heard quotes and stories highlighting why Asheville Citizen-Times reporter Rob Neufeld called Wilma Dykeman “The Mountain South’s Great Humanist of the 20th Century”.

Jim Stokely grew up in Newport, TN and graduated from Yale University (American Studies) and Stanford Graduate School of Business. He began his career writing for the National Park Service, has authored/ edited five books about our regional history, was a Human Resources consultant and director for 25 years and returned to writing when he and his wife Anne moved back to the southern mountains of Weaverville, NC. As President of the Wilma Dykeman Legacy, Jim lectures and produces events to sustain and foster the core values of Wilma Dykeman.

“Do No Harm – Harm Reduction”

July 15, 2018

“Community Conversation on Policing – Mindset Challenges”

June 17, 2018

“Inspiring Community Action to Build Opportunity for Children”

May 20, 2018

Presented by Greg Borum

Greg Borom, Director of Advocacy at Children First/ Communities In Schools discussed poverty and education gaps in our community that hinder the success of our children and our future. When our leaders create policies that are good for children, it leads to better health, education, and safety for our whole community.

With a goal to alleviate the root causes of child poverty, CF/CIS works to unite and educate our community, connect individuals and groups to collaborate and advocate for investment in effective programs that meet children’s basic needs and place them on a path to success.

Greg Borom coordinates public policy advocacy in partnership with volunteers, staff, and partner organizations. He has 25 years of experience in nonprofits, faith-based organizations, community organizing, and policy advocacy. Greg believes that nonprofits bring an important voice to policy decisions when they take time to build advocacy capacity based on their values. Besides being passionate about expanding opportunities for children’s health, education, and well-being through public policy, Greg also searches for inspiration in music, nature, and friendships.

“Break the Silence of Domestic and Sexual Violence”

April 15, 2018

Presented by Kit Gruelle

Kit Gruelle as explored a deeply disturbing fact – the most dangerous place for a woman in America is her own home. Domestic violence crimes account for 40% of all calls to police and only half of the domestic violence incidences are reported. Across America, at least four women, on average, are murdered by abusive partners every day.

Kit shared statistics, stories, and action steps to combat domestic violence. She revealed a world we have hidden with our silence, our laws, and our lack of understanding. She immersed us in the lives of several women as they attempted to leave their abusers, setting them on a collision course with institutions that failed them. The critical question is “How do we build a future without domestic violence?”

Buncombe County’s Project Still Standing is one initiative to break the silence surrounding domestic and sexual violence. As survivors share their stories, the hope is to inspire our community to stand up, speak out and perhaps give other victims the courage they may need to come forward and receive services at Buncombe County’s Family Justice Center.

Kit Gruelle is a Community Educator who has been active in the work to end domestic violence for more than 30 years. Kit was featured in the 2014 HBO feature-length documentary film “Private Violence”. She is a prevention educator at Helpmate – an independent non-profit agency providing services to victims of domestic violence in Buncombe County.

“Coping Strategies in a Complex World”

March 18, 2018

Presented by Patricia Grace

Patricia Grace lead a discussion to examine ways of finding happiness, meaning, and peace in our lives. Our world has become an increasingly complex and confusing place in which to live.  Patricia explored concepts of time, distraction and mindfulness, coping with advances in technology, current values in a materialistic society and issues related to over-consumption—both personal and societal.

Patricia Grace received her master of agriculture from the University of Florida her PhD in agricultural education from Virginia Tech University.  She has taught for 20 years in a broad range of areas including sustainable and ethical agriculture, sustainable living, and facilitating social change.

“Accountability, Equity and Inclusion”

February 18, 2018

Presented by Deborah Miles

Deborah Miles conducted a presentation and workshop posing interesting questions on accountability – individually and as a society.  What do we mean by “equity?”  How do we ensure others are included?  When is exclusion appropriate?

Deborah Miles is the Executive Director of the Center for Diversity Education at the University of North Carolina – Asheville. The Center helps build relationships across differences to create a more inclusive and equitable community and to foster conversation and respect among cultures.  It does this through exhibits, road shows, a lending library, and direct and indirect programming to over 20,000 students, teachers, and citizens throughout WNC.

“Observations on Arab Culture and Politics”

January 21, 2018

Presented by Larry Wilson

Larry conducted wide-ranging conversation of topics including the rise of the “Arab Spring,” rise of various extremist movements, the impact of the refugee crisis upon Arab/ Muslim societies and the rest of the world, and the fracturing of Arab alliances and social structures. Larry presented from an Arab viewpoint as understood by an American who has worked in the Heart of Arabia for nearly 20 years and lived there for more than a decade

Larry Wilson was one of the founders of Zayed University, a university for women in the United Arab Emirates, and served as its Deputy Vice President/Provost from 2001-2013. Larry also designed and directed a project to reform the entire national public school system for the UAE and now serves as an advisor to the Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development in the UAE. He has also worked with the educational systems in Qatar, Oman, and Egypt. Before being recruited to advance the educational systems in the UAE, Larry was the Vice Chancellor/ Provost and Interim Chancellor at UNC Asheville and former president of Marietta College in Ohio.

“Winter Festival”

December 17, 2017

Presented by Joy McConnell, Ethical Culture Leader with statements by members and guests

The theme of this year’s Winter Festival was “Gratitude” for all of the abundance we have and share. Most in attendance brought a token or symbol of something for which he or she feels gratitude to hang on our Winter Festival Tree or to place around it on the table. The festival included music, poetry, inspiring words, our traditional Ethical Culture candle-lighting ceremony and ended with a pot-luck meal.

“The Nature and Nurture of Passion”

November 19, 2017

Presented by Gregg Levoy

Gregg presented thoughts on what inspires passion and what defeats it, how you lose it and how you get it back. It’s not just about finding a passion, but living passionately yourself and with your friends, family, community, and work colleagues.  Passion is ultimately about the hunger to learn and thrive, the impulse toward growth and aliveness. Our attachment to life depends on our interest in it.  Passionate people operate from a sense of primary motivation — for the charge and challenge, for the sense of meaning and purpose, not just the payoff, not just ambition.  Gregg explored several principles from his recent book Vital Signs: The Nature and Nurture of Passion (2014).

Gregg Levoy is an author (Callings: Finding and Following an Authentic Life), columnist, keynote speaker, and former adjunct professor of journalism at the University of New Mexico, a reporter for the Cincinnati Enquirer, and “behavioral specialist” at USA Today. He is a frequent guest of the media, has presented at numerous business, nonprofit, government and university conferences and has written for the New York Times Magazine, Washington Post, Psychology Today and many others.  His website is www.gregglevoy.com.

“Latin America: What the Left Got Right and What It Got Wrong”

October 15, 2017

Presented by Dada Maheshvarananda

Socialist parties with a social justice agenda gained political power in the 1990’s and 2000’s so that by 2010, leftists were controlling governments in Nicaragua, Venezuela, Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Paraguay. However, by 2012, the tide began to turn and today Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay are run by right-wing leaders while Chavez’s successor in Venezuela is barely hanging on. Did living conditions for the common people improve in these countries and, if so, how was that achieved? What mistakes were made that caused many of those governments to fall? What lessons can we learn from their experiences?

Dada Maheshvarananda is an author, activist and yoga monk. For the last 10 years, he has served as the director of the Prout Research Institute of Venezuela, an independent foundation that has consulted with cooperatives. His first book, “After Capitalism: Prout’s Vision for a New World” (preface by Noam Chomsky), was published in 2003 and has been translated into 10 languages. His second book, “After Capitalism: Economic Democracy in Action,” was published in 2012. His latest book, “Cooperative Games for a Cooperative World,” was just released in May 2017. He gives seminars and workshops about social activism and cooperatives and has spoken at the UN and with several world leaders about Economic Democracy.

“Conversations on the Middle East”

September 17, 2017

Presented by Said Abdallah and Cindy Osborne

Said and Cindy spoke about their different historical narratives, their peacemaking efforts, how they connected and how they are working to educate and promote dialog rather than perpetuate divisions and demonize the other side.  They talked about why criticizing policy, corruption and ineffectiveness is neither anti-Israel nor antithetical to Palestinian freedom.

Said Abdallah left Ramallah when he was 19 and raised his family in the US, but returns to visit extended family in the West Bank. He has a green card and has worked as an electrician and a hydroponics entrepreneur. Cindy Osborne, was born in the US, grew up in Israel, served in the Israeli military, has dual Israeli and US citizenship, raised her family in Israel and the US, and currently works as a massage therapist and freelance editor.

Said and Cindy are part of PAJET (www.pajetnc.org), an Asheville, based group of peacemakers and activists committed to working toward a just settlement of the Middle East conflict resulting in Palestinians and Israelis living in peace with equal human rights & dignity.

“Ethics in Journalism”

August 20, 2017

Presented by Larry Blunt

Larry Blunt discussed the impact of technology, changes in broadcasting, government regulation and the effects of a polarizing political climate on the news broadcasting business.  He also discussed the role and actions of individuals in improving ethical accountability.

For more than 30 years, Larry Blunt has reported and anchored the news, the past 12 at WLOS-TV in Asheville.  His investigative reporting has led to confrontations with the Church of Scientology, the reputed mafia boss of Kansas City, and a county official misusing taxpayers dollars.   His work has been recognized with dozens of awards, including Eight Emmy’s and a lifetime achievement award with induction into the Emmy “SILVER CIRCLE”, southeast chapter.   Larry is a graduate of Purdue University at Fort Wayne, a U.S. Navy veteran, and husband of Jan Blunt, former Buncombe County school communications director who spoke to our group a few years ago about school vouchers.

“Health Systems Around the World: Myth and Reality”

July 16, 2017

Presented by Bradley Fuller

Bradley Fuller discussed the myths and realities of the healthcare systems and outcome measures of several developed countries around the world – Germany, Japan, Switzerland, UK, and Taiwan. How do these international healthcare systems compare to the US both as it is today and as repeal and replace is envisioned?

Bradley B. Fuller, M.P.A., M.A. served for twenty-five years as an adjunct professor at St. Joseph’s University in health administration, teaching both undergraduates and graduates.  His expertise is in health policy, managed care, aging services, organization design, management theory, and psychology.  He also has thirty-six years of experience in executive administration in nonprofit human services, dealing with issues of mental health, retardation, the elderly, and youth.

“Global Ethics: 10 Universal Essentials (Capabilities) to Well Being”

June 18, 2017

Presented by Grace Campbell

Grace Campbell explored the essentials of what is required for people to achieve well-being.  Is there a universal measure of global justice and human flourishing that also respects religious and cultural differences?  Prof. Campbell presented the 10 capabilities to well-being proposed by Martha Nussbaum in her book “Women and Human Development”.  It quickly becomes evident just how dire the conditions are under which so many women around the world try to live, work and love.

Grace G. Campbell teaches in Philosophy, Environmental Studies, and all four courses in UNC-A’s required Humanities core. She helped design and now teaches the required senior capstone course, Cultivating Global Citizenship. She is completing her PhD in Philosophy from University of Tennessee, and holds a Master of Liberal Arts and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from University of Colorado. Prior to her academic career, she worked in corporate environmental management consulting.

“Pursuing Justice. Improving Lives. Pisgah Legal Services”

May 21, 2017

Presented by Ken Kiser

Ken Kiser, Pisgah Legal Service outreach presenter, gave an overview of the impact Pisgah Legal Services has had in its 40 years of serving the needs of those battling issues of homelessness, domestic violence, child abuse, subsistence income, healthcare and immigration.

Ken, a former teacher, Spanish speaker and song writer enthusiast, left the classroom to join Pisgah Legal Services in 2016 to further his interest in addressing social justice issues. As an ACA navigator, he also talked about the ACA and shared a few consumer stories.

“Connecting Across Divides”

April 16, 2017

Presented by Roberta Wall

Roberta spoke about her experiences conversing and connecting with others across religious, political and cultural divides.  She drew from her work in the service of peaceful transformation of our world, most recently through Nonviolent Communication Trainings in the Mideast (West Bank and Israel).  In today’s politically charged world, possessing the tools and techniques of deep listening and reflecting each others’ humanity is ever more important for our community, our family and for us as individuals.

Roberta Wall is a certified trainer with the Center for Nonviolent Communication (NVC).  She was a civil rights lawyer in NYC, and is a mediator, trainer, facilitator, parent, grandparent, activist, mindfulness practitioner and coach.  Before moving to Asheville, she shared her time between the US and the Mideast and travelled the world facilitating workshops and retreats and coaching couples, individuals and organizations in Mindfulness and Nonviolent (Compassionate) Communication (NVC). Her teachers include Dr. Marshall Rosenberg , Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh and Rabbis and Rebbetzins from her root Jewish tradition. Her most recent blog: http://us7.campaign-archive2.com/?u=16bc26dab0e0223a2c489752d&id=9dc2708470&e=[UNIQID]. Her website: www.steps2peace.com

“One Nature Indivisible: A Natural Ethic of Wild Humanism”

March 19, 2017

Presented by Chris Highland

Chris Highland explored the question Thoreau posed in his journal three days into his Walden experiment: “I wish to meet the facts of life, the vital facts, face to face. And so I came down here. Life! Who knows what it is, what it does?”  The presentation and conversation honors the 200th Birthday of Wild Henry Thoreau (1817-2017).

Drawing from his long path as an interfaith chaplain, teacher and author, Chris discussed the ways humanistic ethics are rooted in the wildness of our nature.

Chris Highland is the author of ten books including Meditations of Henry David Thoreau. He teaches a class on the history of Freethought at the Reuter Center (OLLI), writes a bi-weekly column for the Citizen-Times and blogs as “Secular Chaplain.” His primary website is www.chighland.com. Chris and his wife Carol moved to Asheville from the SF Bay Area in 2016.

“Keeping a Moral Compass When Society Seems To Have Lost Its Own”

February 19, 2017

Presented by Bill Walz

Bill Walz presented valuable insights on how to hold a steady compass for those deeply concerned by the divisive rhetoric of the past election and those fearing erosion of many hard fought rights.  He talked about awakening, consciousness and how to connect with those who not share your views.

Bill Walz has evolved from a career as a clinical psychologist into teaching meditation and evolving consciousness as a path to personal healing and growth. He taught meditation and consciousness at UNC Asheville and continues in public forums and with a private clientele. Bill also writes a consciousness column for Rapid River Magazine. See Bill’s website at www.billwalz.com.

“MLK and Building Bridges”

January 15, 2017

Presented by Danae Jones Aicher

Each January, we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr., the man. While he is responsible for extraordinary accomplishments, he did it with the help of countless people who made up the Movement. Danae explored some of those people, the history of similar movements and the cyclical nature of the need for such movements in an effort to understand where we are today and why this time is so significant to so many of us.

Danae also discussed the local impact and history of the Asheville Building Bridges program.  The mission of Building Bridges is to dismantle racism by fostering relationships that respect diversity, seek understanding and encourage action.  She discussed how educational programming, paired with a safe place to learn, reflect and discuss, has made a profound impact on people and institutions throughout Western North Carolina since 1993.

Danae Jones Aicher is a mass communications professional with more than 20 years of experience in news, politics and public relations. While her degree in History and extensive career in public and mass communication gave her an upfront view of how we perpetuate the problem of race in America, it was her “new career” as a mother that compelled her to begin working to overcome racism.
 Danae serves on the Board of Building Bridges of Asheville. She also serves on the national Board of Mocha Moms, Inc., the country’s premiere voice for mothers of color.

“This I Believe – Winter Festival of Music and Ethics”

December 18, 2016

Presented by Joy McConnell, Ethical Culture Leader and several members and guests

Opening Music was “O Come Little Children”, by Liz Story and “Carol of the Bells”, by Leonard Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic Orchestra.

Welcome and Opening Words by Joy McConnell, included reading “Seed Pods” by Joyce Mason

This I Believe Statements were read on behalf of Edward R. Murrow; Albert Einstein; Jackie Robinson; Gloria Steinem; and presented by Steve Kaagan, Guest; Jim Tobin, Board Member; Martha Marshall, Board member; and Jackie Simms EHSA Co-founder and President.

Music included “O Tannenbaum” by the Vince Guaraldi Trio; “Moon Lake” by W.G “Snuffy” Walden; “Sunrise” by Pat Metheny; and “May It Be” from Lord of the Rings, by Enya

A traditional Ethical Culture Candle Lighting Ceremony was held for our members and guests followed by a “pot luck” meal and gathering.

The Consequences of Pervasive Poverty

November 20, 2016

Presented by Dr. John Clarke

Dr. Clarke discussed some of the causes of poverty in the United States, but the focus was on the consequences of poverty. Poverty has a great impact on early life development, and that has a long-range effect of deprivation on people and ultimately on society.

Dr. John Clarke has a PhD in Clinical Psychology and completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship. He has taught at the college level, worked in community health and in private business. The primary focus of his work was with the seriously mentally ill, the developmentally disabled and victims of physical injury.

Nobel Prize Winner Jane Addams on the Tools and Travails of Democratic Practice

October 16, 2016

Presented by Dr. Brian E. Butler

Jane Addams practiced democratic habits in every level of her life. Hull House, her Chicago Settlement project, served as a living experiment in democratic education. In her writings, Addams communicated a very nuanced conception of democracy brilliantly. Democracy, for her, was much more than a political system; it was a way of social life.

Dr. Butler outlined her very demanding conception of democracy through the use of examples from Hull House and her various writings. He showed how her conception of democracy offers important tools for the construction of a more democratic society that are as relevant today as they were in her time.

Brian E. Butler is the Thomas Howerton Distinguished Professor of Humanities and a member of the Philosophy Department at UNC Asheville. He is also co-chair of the Black Mountain College Museum and Arts Center in Asheville, NC. Dr. Butler has graduate degrees in Fine Arts, Philosophy and Law. His book on the democratic constitution is scheduled to come out from the University of Chicago Press in 2017.

Income and Wealth Inequality: Why it matters

September 18, 2016

Presented by Dr. Shirley Browning

How much inequality is sustainable and appropriate for a dynamic politically stable economy/ society? The issue is how much inequality seems just, ethical, and moral.

Inequality in income and wealth leads to inequality in access to virtually everything – education, development of human capabilities, power, health care, freedom of various kinds – and this inequality can be reflected by class, race, religion, age, etc.

Inequality of income and wealth has been with humanity since recorded time. Strict equality is not generally acceptable and can reduce incentives, but few people having most income/wealth is unacceptable. With extreme inequality, a sense of democracy is lost. It creates pressure for violent overthrow of government.

Shirley Browning grew up on an apple orchard in Kentucky, was educated in a one-room schoolhouse and went on to receive a doctoral degree. He (yes, he was named Shirley after his grandfather) was a professor of Economics and Humanities, chairman of the Economics department and administrator at UNCA. He has also taught at OLLI College for Seniors.

The Thirteenth Juror

August 21, 2016

Presented by Author Nelda Holder

“The Thirteenth Juror” is both a personal and an investigative report on the contents of the 6,466+ pages of transcripts and documents released in the Missouri grand jury investigation into the death of Michael Brown, Jr. in Ferguson, MO.

Author Nelda Holder described how her involvement in this project came about, and the import of her months of investigation. The book’s title is symbolic of her approach to the material, which was to — insofar as possible — slip into the role of a grand juror as she read the testimonies and the attorney narratives, and looked at the evidence presented in the transcripts. The book itself invites its readers to be present as well, offering anecdotes and descriptions that present a candid sense of many aspects of the 24 days of grand jury hearings.

In addition to a synopsis of “facts” and a discussion of their import, Holder shared research regarding the grand jury process in this country and the potential and need for its reform. She also discussed the wildly disparate eyewitness testimony in the case and the striking documentation of unreliability for such testimony.

The author shared personal stories from witnesses who knew Michael Brown, and stories about their individual lives in the neighborhood they shared, particularly involving police interactions. She discussed two troubling aspects regarding Darren Wilson’s own testimony (the young police officer on trials) that she discovered in going through these records. She also discussed the ultimate revelation inherent in the release of these documents, which she feels reveals a sobering ethical dilemma.

Asheville resident Nelda Holder has been a journalist for most of her professional life. She began that career with The Tampa Times in Florida in the 1970s and has practiced investigative and documentary journalism ever since. In Asheville, she formerly served as associate editor of the Mountain Xpress and is currently the legislative columnist for Asheville’s The Urban News. Holder also manages and edits her own website, Politically Purple NC, which publishes political and cultural articles on the state of North Carolina. She is a graduate of NC State University and holds an M.S. degree from Antioch New England.

Waves of Feminism in the United States

July 17, 2016

Presented by Patricia Robertson and Curry First

Professor emerita Patricia Robertson and civil rights attorney Curry First explored the “Waves of Feminism” in the United States. They examined the personal, political, and legal aspects of sexism and female oppression past and present.

The first wave of feminism began in full force in 1848 at Seneca Falls, NY. The Declaration of the Rights of Womyn was designed and presented. The second and third waves followed and Patricia and Curry postulated that we may be in the midst of a fourth wave. The waves were briefly described – both the political and legal activities in each wave.  There was discussion about what needs to be happening in the 4th wave.

From the early 70’s on, there were important Supreme Court decisions impacting womyn from reproductive rights to employment. These controversies continue as the opponents of womyn’s rights believe they have allies in the courts as they seek to turn back judicial victories. What can we do to advance equality?

Patricia Robertson is professor emerita at East Tennessee State University. Patricia Robertson claimed feminism as her grounding early in her life (her mom says when she was about 5 years old – to her parents’ dismay). She has been a clinician (mental health), a faculty member and an administrator and has spent most of her career in academe.

Curry First is a retired civil rights attorney who practiced 39 years in Milwaukee. His legal work involved representation of womyn challenging sexual harassment, promotions denied, hiring practices, and working conditions. He also represented womyn in class actions. His activism has included board membership on the ACLU state affiliates in Wisconsin and North Carolina.

Lessons of the Holocaust

June 19, 2016

Presented by Ari Landau.

Ari Landau presented “Lessons of the Holocaust”. How did an extreme radical anti-Semitic political party gain control of a culturally advanced European nation and lead it into the most horrific war in history? Why did so many participate in the Nazi “Final Solution?” Why has genocide continued in the world today? Is history repeating itself? Is the current U.S. campaign rhetoric of targeting groups increasing international support for nationalist and anti-Semitic political parties? What national and international policies should the U.S. and the international community adopt? What can we do to stop this madness?

Ari Landau is a second-generation survivor of the Nazi death camps; his father survived Auschwitz and Mauthausen. Except for his father and half-sister, the remainder of his family was shot or gassed to death by the Nazi Einsatzgruppen. Ari has B.S. and M.A. degrees in history and a Juris Doctorate. Ari served in the United States Air Force as a JAG officer and served as the Chief Commissioner of the USAF Court of Military Review.  For the past 50 years, he has taught about the Holocaust at schools/colleges, museums, synagogues, churches, adult and special interest groups.

GMOs: Benevolent or Malevolent

May 15, 2016

Presented by Patricia Grace, Ph.D.

Is genetic modification of food a good thing or a bad thing?  The answer most often lies in how you view the world and whom you ask based on personal beliefs and ideological bias.  Do GMOs offer the promise of reducing hunger in the world?  Do GMOs indenture Jeffersonian farmers to corporate masters?  Does tampering with Mother Nature produce “Frankenfoods” inconsistent with a vision of the Garden of Eden and nature itself?  No matter what your political or ideological view, we all have blind spots.  Patricia Grace explored some of the issues, evidence and challenges regarding GMOs in our world.

Patricia Grace received her Master of Science in agriculture from the University of Florida in 1997 and her doctorate in agricultural education from Virginia Tech in 2011. She has been teaching sustainable agriculture, agricultural ethics, sustainable living and facilitating social change for 20 years.

The Promise of Humanism

April 17, 2016

Presented by Fred Edwords

What is the promise of humanism? What is its attraction? With its emergence in the early twentieth century, humanism offered a refreshing outlook with a this-worldly forthrightness, down-to-earth honesty, and social action focused on “doing good.” Join us as we explore the promise humanism offers to adherents and society.

Fred Edwords was executive director for the American Humanist Association, national director of the United Coalition of Reason, first president of Camp Quest (a summer camp for freethinking children), and board member of the International Humanist and Ethical Union (IHEU) and the National Center for Science Education.

Edwords is currently director of planned giving for the Humanist Foundation of the AHA, an advisor to the Secular Student Alliance, and he serves on the Broader Social Impacts Committee of the Hall of Human Origins at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

Sustainability through Mindfulness

March 20, 2016

Presented by Sonia Marcus

Sonia Marcus presented an interactive session on exploring sustainability concepts through mindfulness. Many faculty, staff and students are using mindfulness-based approaches both inside and outside the classroom to further strengthen the campus’s sustainability culture and practice. Sonia discussed UNC Asheville’s efforts and successes improving the ecological sustainability at the institution and how contemplative practice plays a part. Sonia was joined in the presentation by Lia Curtis-Fine, student President of the UNC Asheville Mindfulness Club.

Sonia is a sustainability specialist and LEED Accredited Professional who is UNC Asheville’s first director of sustainability. From 2003 through 2011, Sonia led Ohio University’s Office of Sustainability.  Sonia Marcus holds a B.A. in Psychology from Stanford University and a Masters degree in Communication & Development Studies from Ohio University. She serves as Chair of the City of Asheville’s Sustainability Advisory Committee and is a board member for Shareable, an award-winning nonprofit news, action, and connection hub for the sharing economy.

The Art of Resilience

February 21, 2016

Presented by DeWayne Barton

DeWayne, presented an overview of his work in creating the Community Accountability Plan (CAP), a road map for repairing black communities and addressing disparities in marginalized neighborhoods. The objective is to foster a culture of resilience, inclusiveness and sustainability that is economically just and builds upon the goals of neighborhood plans.  We were also treated to some of DeWayne’s poetry.

DeWayne Barton is a sculptor, poet and author who has combined his creative practice with community activism/improvement, youth development and justice issues for over 20 years. He is founder and CEO of Hood Huggers International (hoodhuggers.com), which offers sustainable strategies for marginalized neighborhoods. His art installations have been featured in the Smithsonian Institute’s Museum of African American History and Culture. Barton is co-founder of the Burton Street Community Peace Gardens and Green Opportunities, and he serves on the African American Heritage Commission, CoThinkk, and the City of Asheville Neighborhood Advisory Board.

The Hidden, Devious Opportunity in North Carolina’s K-12 Opportunity Scholarships

January 17, 2016

Presented by Jan Blunt

Jan presented a program on how NC’s K-12 school vouchers, so-called “opportunity scholarships,” are, on the surface, about providing low-income parents with more school choices for their students but the details tell a different story. Tax dollars intended for public schools are being sent to private religious schools without accountability or transparency for how the funds are spent, what their students are taught, or by whom. She made the case that lawmakers want to give all students, not just low-income children, the same “opportunity” because the grants to private schools are less per student than the money given to the public schools.  The more students that sign up for the “opportunity scholarships”, the less the state will have to pay for education.

Jan Blunt has been a teacher, Marketing Director and is the former Communications Director for Buncombe County Schools.  Jan researched and wrote about NC’s “opportunity scholarships” for her Public Policy Analysis course in completing her Masters of Public Affairs program at Western Carolina University. Her career has spanned both the public and private sectors. Jan now has her own firm, Strategic Communications for the Public Sector.

Winter Festival, 2015 – “Heaven’s Here on Earth” was the theme

December 20, 2015

Presented by Joy McConnell and many guest presenters and musicians

Joy McConnell lead a program of poetry reading, beautiful images and a holiday season exploration of gratitude and appreciation.  Building on the Tracy Chapman song of the same title, we explored various perspectives on what makes life worth living.

A potluck holiday dinner was served after the meeting.

“Good Without God – Humanism in Western North Carolina”

November 15, 2015

Humanism is a progressive philosophy of life which affirms the ability and responsibility to lead ethical lives that aspire to the greater good of humanity.  Two panelists from Western NC Humanists and two panelists from the Ethical Humanist Society of Asheville discussed the history and philosophy of each organization – exploring how they are alike and different.  Moderated by Tom Heffner, Calvin presented the history of the American Humanist Association (AHA) and Judy Kramer presented the history of the Ethical Culture movement and the American Ethical Union (AEU).  Geri Weaver, the president of WNC Humanists discussed the current activities and focus of the organization.  Andy Reed, a member of Ethical Humanist Society Asheville (ESHAsheville) and former Board Member, presented the three pillars of our local EHSAsheville activities focusing on the “Head” – our Platform/Presentation Meetings; the “Heart” – our Colloquy Meetings: and the “Soul” – our diverse Ethical Action activities

Discussion also focused on similarities and current and new areas of collaboration.

“Sexuality and Current Events”

October 18, 2015

Presented by Kelley Johnson

Kelley discussed how recent news events in Asheville and around the nation relate to sexuality. She drew from a multi-disciplinary approach to current events and fostered critical thinking about important issues of the day. The discussion helped participants recognize and focus on what we can do to combat sexually inappropriate behavior.

Kelley Johnson has been a health educator since 1989; she has spent 15 years teaching Health and Sexuality and Women’s Health at UNC Asheville. She has a B.S. in Clinical Nutrition and a Master’s degree in Public Health Education, both from UNC Greensboro. In 2009, she received a Ph. D. in Human Sexuality. Dr. Johnson’s practice includes private consultation, public speaking, curriculum development, professional training and education.

 “Critical Actions for Global Survival”

September 20, 2015

Presented by Jim Barton

Jim discussed the converging global movements for world peace, the focus on climate change, and improving the human condition. He focused on the 14th International Day of Peace celebrated annually on September 21st, the UN’s soon-to-be ratified Sustainable Development Goals, and Pope Francis’s encyclical on issues of climate, ecology, and human well-being with his upcoming addresses to the UN and the U.S. Congress.

Jim Barton grew up three blocks from the Essex Ethical Culture Society in Maplewood, NJ and attended the then-Ethical Culture sponsored Encampment for Citizenship in 1976.  He studied History and German Studies at the University of California in Santa Cruz and attended law school at the University of California in Davis.  He has been active in the peace movement for 41 years, in the environmental movement since 1977, and the movement for global democracy since 1989. Barton has lived in Asheville since 2005.

 “Ordinary People Making a Real Difference: A Report from the 100th Assembly of the American Ethical Union”

August 16, 2015

Presented by Joy McConnell and Jackie Simms

Ours is the first generation that can end poverty, and the last that can take steps to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, if humanity has the will to do so. To those ends, the United Nations prepared Sustainable Development Goals as a roadmap to fight against extreme poverty, strive toward more equitable economic growth and environmental sustainability, and reduce the dangers of human-induced climate change. To support those UN Goals, the AEU 100th Assembly gave participants opportunities to hear experts on social, environmental, and economic development speak about the many grass-roots ways we can protect our world for future generations. Jackie and Joy shared what they learned at the Assembly and how they were inspired and energized by their experiences.

Joy McConnell, a certified Ethical Culture Leader since 1989, has served as clergy with the Ethical Society of St. Louis, the Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, and as consulting Leader with our Society here in Asheville. In the 1990s, Joy served the American Ethical Union as Director of Religious Education and Director of Growth and Development.

Jackie Simms has been affiliated with the Ethical Culture movement since 1978 and, in 2001, was a founding member of the Ethical Humanist Society of Asheville. She is a former director of the Western North Carolina Satellite Program for Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and a retired teacher in the Early Intervention Program for Children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.

“Lessons from Jane: The enduring Urban Wisdom of Jane Jacobs”

July 19, 2015

Presented by David A. Johnson

A half century ago, a feisty New York journalist changed how we think about cities and economies. In her remarkable career, Jane Jacobs challenged established urban planning orthodoxies, defeated the bulldozers of Robert Moses and showed us how to look at and improve our neighborhoods. The lessons she taught us are still germane to cities like Asheville. Prof. Johnson spoke about the continuing relevance of Jane Jacobs to current issues of urban and national development. After Dr. Johnson’s talk, Annie Butzner, Jane Jacobs’ niece, shared memories of her aunt.

David Johnson is Professor Emeritus of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He received Bachelor and Master degrees in architecture and planning from Yale, a PhD in regional planning from Cornell and was a Senior Fulbright scholar at the Moscow Institute of Architecture. He is the author of numerous articles and several books, including Planning the Great Metropolis (2015) that examines how past planning shaped the New York Metropolitan Region. Dr. Johnson is a Past-President of the Fulbright Association of the United States and a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners. He resides in Asheville, NC where he serves on the board of the Asheville Design Center.

Annie Butzner studied sculpture and later became a nurse. She was educated as an Oncology/Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist at University of Delaware, Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Center and the Cleveland Clinic. She was Visiting Faculty and speaker at MSKCC. After moving to NC, she worked as Medical Programs Chairperson at a local college, Nursing Supervisor/Wound Care Specialist at Highland Farms, and Director of Nursing. “Health Disparities in Buncombe County. How Do We Close The Gap?”

“Health Disparities in Buncombe County.  How Do We Close The Gap?”

June 21, 2015

Presented by Sharon Kelly West

West provided an overview of the history of disparities in Buncombe County and the interventions that have been made to impact community health through community collaborations and programming.  The importance of advocacy and community champions was highlighted.

Sharon West is the Women Veteran’s Program Manager – Charles George VA Medical Center. She is a registered nurse with a Master’s degree in Health Science from Western Carolina University.   She completed post graduate studies at Wake Forest University in Clinical Ethics. She is a Jim Bernstein Fellow of Community Leadership and appointed by the NC Speaker of the House of Representatives to the Minority Health Advisory Council.