Glass City Humanist Douglas Berger

We start with concerns surrounding politics, particularly Christian nationalism, in the United States. The focus is on the worrisome alignment between the Republican Party and Christian nationalists who wrongly believe that the US was founded as a Christian nation. We recommend two documentaries, "Bad Faith" and "God and Country," which shed light on the politics and beliefs of Christian nationalists. "Bad Faith" delves into the political roots of Christian nationalism, while "God and Country" explores perspectives of Christians concerned about this movement.



The discussion looks into the historical background of Christian nationalism, citing pivotal figures like Paul Weyrich, who shifted evangelical Christians' political focus from supporting segregation to opposing abortion in the 1970s. We then highlight concerns about Christian nationalist groups infiltrating public schools, such as LifeWise, to teach Bible stories disguised as character education. Criticisms of the curriculum's content, including stories promoting human sacrifice and submission, are addressed. The episode covers a lawsuit filed against Zach Parrish, from Parents Against LifeWise, for making LifeWise curriculum available to the public and his efforts to defend against the legal action.



In a follow up, Zach Parrish shares insights on the lawsuit, emphasizing that he accessed the curriculum legally and challenges the claim of copyright infringement by LifeWise. The episode discusses fundraising efforts to cover legal fees and the overwhelming public support he has received. Additionally, the conversation touches on a recent incident involving a former LifeWise school director's past inappropriate conduct with children, raising more concerns about individuals in LifeWise programs due to suspect background checks. The episode concludes with reflections on potential legal strategies, including considerations of anti-SLAPP laws to counter the lawsuit.



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We have a special announcement about the upcoming winter solstice potluck event in December. We reflect on the challenges the group faced during the pandemic and the excitement around reviving this tradition. The decision to have a potluck instead of a catered banquet is discussed, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and removing financial barriers for attendees.

Excitement peaks when plans to invite Gloria Steinem as a keynote speaker for the event are revealed. Douglas shares the process of reaching out to Steinem's team and the unexpected acceptance of the invitation. This news brings immense joy and pride to Douglas as he admires Steinem for embodying humanist values and principles.

Shifting gears, We delve into the alarming details of Project 2025, a conservative agenda outlined by the Heritage Foundation. We unpack the extensive proposals that threaten civil rights, democracy, and promote Christian nationalism. From implications on government employees' rights to reproductive health policies and LGBTQ rights, Project 2025 paints a grim picture of potential future governance.

We emphasize the urgency of being informed about Project 2025 and encourage listeners to seek varied sources to grasp the magnitude of its impact. We shed light on the unsettling provisions targeting marginalized communities and undermining fundamental rights. The episode ends with a call to action, urging listeners to educate themselves further on these critical issues.

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We discuss the impact of genetics on society, touching on both the positive and dark aspects of the field. We reflect on the work of Dr. Anthony Fauci in combating infectious diseases like HIV-AIDS, Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19. Dr. Fauci's dedication to saving lives and his experiences with various administrations are highlighted, along with the unfortunate security threats he faces due to political tensions.



Then we delve into the history of eugenics, citing examples of how genetics was misused to justify atrocities such as sterilizations and discriminatory practices.



We share insights from a lecture by Dr. Adam Rutherford on the dark history of genetics, emphasizing the shift from simplistic Mendelian inheritance patterns to the complex interplay of multiple genes and environmental factors in shaping traits. He critiques the perpetuation of outdated monogenic deterministic thinking in education and media, leading to racial essentialism and misunderstanding of genetic concepts. Rutherford challenges the inaccurate portrayal of genetics in popular culture, debunking sensationalized claims about genes determining complex human behaviors and characteristics.



The discussion extends to the distorted application of genetics in eugenics, with examples from Nazi Germany where pseudo-scientific racial hygiene policies led to widespread atrocities. The fraudulent foundation of eugenics, propagated by influential figures like Charles Davenport, is exposed, showcasing how flawed interpretations of genetics can have catastrophic consequences. Rutherford emphasizes the importance of revising genetic education to align with current scientific understanding and avoid reinforcing harmful ideologies rooted in eugenic thinking.



By shedding light on the intersection of genetics, eugenics, and societal beliefs, we encourage critical thinking and a nuanced approach to genetic concepts to prevent the reemergence of harmful practices. Through historical analysis and modern perspectives, we underscore the impact of accurate genetic education in shaping informed discussions and ethical considerations surrounding genetic research and applications.



This is our 80th episode - thanks for listening all this time.

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Join us as we tackle the controversial presence of LifeWise Academy in Ohio's public schools. LifeWise, a well-funded evangelical group, has been pushing religious classes under the guise of release time religious education. We discuss how they manipulate state laws to recruit elementary students to attend Bible classes off-campus, often misleading parents and school districts about their true intentions. Our guests, Molly Gaines and Zachary Parrish, co-founders of Parents Against LifeWise, share their personal journeys and experiences that led them to oppose LifeWise's influence.

We uncover the troubling lack of accountability and transparency in schools regarding LifeWise's programs. School districts are failing to track attendance and deflecting responsibility, leaving parents in the dark. We expose the concerning nature of LifeWise's curriculum, which includes harmful rhetoric and inappropriate guidance on sensitive subjects such as family dynamics and gender identity. Through specific documents and personal stories, we highlight the need for vigilance and advocacy to protect children's and parental rights in the educational system.

We also address the manipulative tactics LifeWise employs within communities, including the questionable legitimacy of its petition process and its MLM-like structure for fundraising. Our discussion reveals LifeWise's troubling affiliations with right-wing extremist groups and figures, raising ethical and transparency issues. Additionally, we explore the implications of Ohio House Bill 445 on religious freedom in public schools and the broader concerns about education privatization. Join us for a compelling conversation with Molly and Zachary, who are dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for inclusive educational practices that respect diverse religious beliefs.

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In this episode, we confront the realities of urban development and its impact on local communities. Peggy Daly-Masternak, coordinator of the I-475 Neighborhoods Coalition, sits down with us to discuss the group's determined fight against the proposed widening of Interstate 475 in Toledo. Peggy details the coalition's efforts to ensure that the voices of affected neighborhoods are heard, and she sheds light on the concerning issues of increased noise, pollution, and the potential for hazardous material transport.



Peeling back the layers of this complex issue, we uncover a history of urban planning decisions that have long-term consequences for city residents. Peggy provides a compelling argument against the expansion project, citing alarming data on traffic congestion, safety, and the alarming costs associated with the project. With a mix of personal stories and hard facts, this episode is a deep dive into the democratic process and the ongoing struggle for community rights in the face of large-scale infrastructure projects.

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Have you ever wondered how to mark life's transitions without relying on traditional religious ceremonies? Megan Sheldon, co-founder and CEO of Be Ceremonial, joins us to illuminate the world of humanist rituals. Megan shares her inspiring journey from personal grief to empowering others in creating secular ceremonies that resonate with their authentic selves. We delve into the heart of why it's crucial for individuals, especially in a society that leans secular, to have access to rituals that support personal growth and acknowledge pivotal moments—sans the religious overtones.

From the transformative croning ceremony that reclaims the beauty of aging for women to the poignant "do-over" ceremonies that allow for the reclamation of past experiences, our conversation reveals the profound impact personalized rituals can have on mental health and community. Megan also addresses the legal challenges faced by humanist celebrants, showing us the importance of legal recognition for non-religious ceremonies. With Be Ceremonial's innovative platform, Megan envisions a future where life's myriad experiences, including gender transitioning, are honored through personalized ceremonies, crafted in collaboration with those who have lived these realities. Join us as we explore how Megan's work with Be Ceremonial is crafting a new narrative for ceremony in a secular society.

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