FFRFMCC

Meetup with Dr. Richard Carrier!
2016-10-17 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Monk’s Pub, 205 W. Lake St., Chicago, IL, 60606, United States
Historian, philosopher, atheist, and author Dr. Richard Carrier will be visiting the Chicago area on his way to the Mythinformation Conference in Milwaukee.
Dr. Carrier will be in town on Monday night, October 17th and will be hanging out, having a few drinks and chatting with those who would like to join him at Monk’s Pub, 205 W. Lake St., Chicago 60606, from 6pm – 9pm. He will have books to sell and sign, including his latest on ancient science education.
So if you have time, and will be in the vicinity of downtown Chicago on the evening October 17th, you are welcome to meet up with Richard!

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Mythicist Milwaukee's Mythinformation Conference: Is Faith Rooted in Fiction?
2016-10-21 13:00 - 21:00 | Turner Hall, 1034 North 4th Street, Milwaukee, WI, 53203, United States
This year’s Mythinformation Conference hosted by
Mythicist Milwaukee asks, “Is Faith Rooted in Fiction?”
Join FFRF’s own president Dan Barker as he presents his talk titled “GOD: The Most Unpleasant Character in All Fiction” along with other local secular groups coming together to debate and educate.
For more information about the lineup and to purchase tickets, visit their conference page here.

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"Religious Freedom or Discrimination?: Examining Religious Freedom Restoration Acts."
2016-11-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skokie, IL, 60077, United States
The FFRFMCC is pleased to announce it will be hosting a speaking engagement by FFRF Staff Attorney and Constitutional Counsel Andrew Seidel.
The title of his presentation will be: “Religious Freedom or Discrimination?: Examining Religious Freedom Restoration Acts.” Andrew will focus on the recent wave of Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) bills that have been passed or are currently being introduced by state governments, which are designed to expand the Constitutional right to freedom of religious exercise by allowing exemptions from legislative bans to individuals on the basis of their religious beliefs.
As those of the religious majority seek special privilege to ignore laws they feel are in conflict with their beliefs, it is important now more than ever to understand the nature of RFRA legislation and whether they serve only to clarify the “Free Exercise” clause, or are just an attempt to circumvent anti-discrimination laws.
Dark brown states have constitutional or statutory religious exemption law (RFRA) (21 states). Data current as of 10/10/2016 from http://www.lgbtmap.org/equality_maps/profile_state/44
The presentation will be approximately 30 minutes in length, and will be followed by another 30 minutes of Q&A. So, please join us for what will be a most enlightening discussion:
Date: Thursday, November 3rd, 2016
Time: 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Place: The Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 Lincoln Ave. in Skokie (corner of Lincoln Ave. and and Howard St.)
Cost: Free
Free parking is available.
Upon conclusion of this speaking event, guests are invited to gather at The Curragh Irish Pub (8266 Lincoln Ave. in Skokie) where they will have the opportunity to “meet, greet & chat” with Andrew Seidel over a few drinks.
If you would like to attend, we kindly ask that you please RSVP on our Doodle poll by clicking here.

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FFRFMCC 2016 Winter Solstice Party
2016-12-18 12:00 - 15:00 | Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant, 3471 N. Elston Ave., Chicago, IL, 60618, United States
Please join other freethinkers as we “eat, drink and be merry” in celebration of the TRUE reason for the season — the astronomical New Year known as the Winter Solstice.
As last year, our event will again take place at Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant, where we will feast on an incredible “all-you-can-eat” Sunday brunch buffet, including a wide variety of both breakfast and lunch entrees, as well as salads, side dishes, appetizers, and desserts galore!
In addition to our celebration, we will also be assisting those in need this holiday season by collecting holiday “wish list” items for Connections for Abused Women and their Children. The mission of CAWC is to end domestic violence through an empowerment approach, and to provide shelter for abused women and their children. For this, we would like to ask our guests to please bring any of the following items if they so desire and are able:
– Board games, Lego or craft sets, educational workbooks (math, reading, writing)
– Toiletries (body wash, shampoo/conditioner, hand sanitizer, toothpaste and brushes, deodorant, make-up kits, laundry detergent)
– Infant Care (diapers up to size 6, baby wipes and baby wash)
Reservations are required and seating is limited, so order your tickets now by clicking here for our Eventbrite page.

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FFRFMCC Discussion Workshop #3 - "Challenging Religious Beliefs"
2017-01-21 11:00 - 15:00 | North Branch Pizza & Burger Co,, 4520 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL, 60025, United States
Our third in a series of workshops designed to assist non-theists with addressing talking points posed by those of religious faith will be held on Saturday, January 21st, 2017. A moderator will facilitate a group discussion among fellow freethinkers, encouraging each participant to offer their viewpoints pertaining to two separate topics/questions relating to religious ideology. The topics/questions will be provided at the start of the discussion in order for participants to hone their critical thinking skills!
At the conclusion of the workshop, we will then hold our January meetup social, which will be a luncheon of pizza, salad and soft drinks, and of course more great secular conversation!
This event is free, but a $10.00 suggested donation will help cover food and venue costs.
For those who would like to attend this educational event, please click here to RSVP.

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FFRFMCC 2017 Darwin Day Celebration
2017-02-11 15:00 - 18:30 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
February 12th, 2017 will mark the 208th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin. His five-year voyage on the HMS Beagle in 1831 led to his work on the theory of evolution, which is now fact, and the publishing of his book, “On the Origin of Species.” Despite his Christian upbringing, his father’s desire he become a parson, and marrying devout Christian Emma Wedgwood (his cousin), Darwin bravely sought to challenge the biblical notions of creation, and forever changing our understanding of the natural world.
Darwin’s contributions to science are enormous, and although our federal government has still yet to officially recognize Darwin’s accomplishments, those of us who truly understand the importance of his work, can recognize him.
In co-sponsorship this year with the Chicago Atheist Society, the FFRFMCC will hold its 5th annual Darwin Day celebration to honor this great man. Please join us as we gather for a viewing of two segments from Richard Dawkins’ outstanding documentary, “The Genius of Charles Darwin. The film will last approximately 1 and 1 /2 hours, and will be followed by a dinner buffet and social gathering.
All who would like to attend this celebration of the life of Charles Darwin can click here to reserve their spot on our Doodle poll. The reservation deadline for this event will be Thursday, February, 9th, 2017.
Cost: $10 suggested donation

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FFRFMCC Spring Dinner Social
2017-04-26 18:30 - 21:30 | White Chocolate Grill, 1803 Freedom Drive, Naperville, IL, 60563, United States
We are pleased to announce details for our next chapter meetup, which will be a Spring dinner social.
This will be an “order-off-the-menu” event, with each guest responsible for their own entree and beverages. Appetizers will be provided compliments of the FFRFMCC!
Please join us for an evening of great secular conversation, food and drink with fellow freethinkers. For those would like to attend, you may click here to reserve your spot on our Doodle poll. The RSVP deadline for this event is Monday, April 24th.
Hope to see you there!

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The FFRFMCC Presents: "An Evening with Keith Semple"
2017-05-24 19:00 - 22:30 | Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant, 3471 N. Elston Ave., Chicago, IL, 60618, United States
The FFRFMCC will be hosting an evening with atheist musician Keith Semple. Keith is an accomplished musician who began his professional career at the age of 16 having performed throughout Europe. Born in Ireland, he moved to Chicago in 2006 when he joined the band 7th Heaven. In his six years with the band, he performed opening acts for Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Styx, Journey and Huey Lewis, just to name a few. In 2012, he went on to form his own band, SEMPLE, with Chicago area musicians. And in 2015, advanced his way to the top 20 live rounds as a contestant on NBC’s “The Voice.”
Our event will include a presentation by Keith, where he will discuss his journey to atheism in Northern Ireland and it’s impact on his world view, including the moral, logical and existential implications of his conclusions, and how they pertain to today’s issues.
During his approximate 1 hour talk, Keith will also perform musical interludes during the opening, middle and conclusion of his presentation.
The event will begin at 7:00pm with a cash bar and complimentary appetizers. The presentation and music will take place from 7:30pm – 9:00pm, and conclude with a “meet and greet” with a cash bar from 9:00pm – 10:30pm.
Admission Fee: $10.00 suggested donation
For those who would like to attend, please click here to reserve your spot on our Doodle poll.

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FFRFMCC Discussion Workshop #4: "Challenging Religious Beliefs"
2017-06-17 11:00 - 14:00 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
The FFRFMCC will hold its fourth in a series of workshops designed to assist non-theists with addressing talking points posed by those of religious faith. A moderator will facilitate a group discussion among freethinkers, encouraging each individual to offer their viewpoints pertaining to two separate topics/questions relating to religious beliefs. Participants will not be made aware of the topics/questions until the start of the discussion in order to help sharpen critical thinking skills!
The discussion will run for approximately 1 1/2 hours. Pizza and salad will be served at the conclusion of the workshop.
Admission: $10 per person suggested donation (to help cover food and venue costs)
For those who would like to attend this educational event, please click here to RSVP on our Doodle poll. The RSVP deadline is Friday, June 16th.
Hope to see you there!

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FFRFMCC August Meetup
2017-08-21 18:30 - 21:30 | Leona’s Restaurant, 6935 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL, 60626, United States
Please join us for the FFRFMCC August meetup. This will be a dinner social and all are welcome to gather with fellow freethinkers for good food, secular conversation, and sharing our thoughts on experiencing a total solar eclipse (as best we can from Chicago)!
The chapter will provide appetizers, but attendees will be responsible for their entrees and drinks. Monday nights are 1/2 price pizzas at Leona’s!
Free parking is available in the restaurant’s lot.
An RSVP is required by Sunday, August 20th.
To reserve your spot, please click here to RSVP on our Doodle poll.
Hope to see you there!

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FFRFMCC Fall 2017 Discussion Workshop - "Challenging Religious Beliefs"
2017-09-23 11:00 - 14:30 | North Branch Pizza & Burger Co,, 4520 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL, 60025, United States
We are pleased to announce our next in a series of discussion workshops on “Challenging Religious Beliefs.” During these discussions, a moderator will pose two separate topics/questions related to common religious talking points. Participants are encouraged to offer their viewpoints regarding how non-theists should best counter unsubstantiated ideological beliefs when presented to them by those of religious faith, in order to assist non-believers with sharpening their critical thinking skills.
The discussion will run for approximately 1 1/2 hours. Pizza, salad and soft drinks will be served at the conclusion of the workshop.
Admission: $10 per person suggested donation (to help cover food/drink/venue costs)
For those who would like to attend, please click here to RSVP on our Doodle poll.
The RSVP deadline for this event is Friday, September 22nd.

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FFRFMCC Lecture Series: World Religions
2017-10-11 19:00 - 21:30 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
John Camardella
According to a recent PRRI (Public Religion Research Institute) study, the religious landscape in the U.S. continues to change dramatically. White Christians are, for the first time its history, a minority (43%) in this country. This is down from 80% just 40 years ago. Non-Christian religions are growing, and those holding no religious identity whatsoever now represent one-quarter of our population. Thanks to a more far-reaching information network, people (particularly millennials) have greater exposure to other religions, as well as secularism. But there are now other means for young people to gain more in-depth understanding of how many different religions exist, other than the one in which they may have been raised.
Therefore, We are pleased to announce the Freedom From Religion Foundation Metropolitan Chicago Chapter will be hosting a two-week lecture series focusing on the various major world religions.
It is an honor to have Mr. John Camardella present these lectures. John is in his 15th year of teaching in the Social Studies Department at Prospect High School. For the past eight years, he has taught two stand alone World Religion elective courses and has been instrumental in advancing the curriculum at the national level. Last year, he was one of two high school teachers in the country named to the national writing team to develop a framework on how to teach religion in public schools. With the assistance of professors from Georgetown, Rice, Columbia, and Harvard, these guidelines were published back in June, marking the first time in American history that a national education body (The National Council for the Social Studies) endorsed and published a framework for Religious Studies. In addition, John teaches religion courses to the parents of his students and a graduate level course for teachers and administrators. In his free time, John travels to locations such as China, Thailand, Cambodia, Hong Kong and Japan to collaborate with both international scholars and practitioners of different traditions to improve his curriculum and understanding. Over the past few years, he has had the opportunity to study the Abrahamic faiths in Italy, Turkey, Greece, Austria, the Czech Republic and most recently in Israel and the West Bank.
John’s work was recently the subject of a Chicago Tribune article, which you can view by clicking here.
The objective of Mr. Camardella’s public high school curriculum in World Religions is to instruct students in an informative, comparative and constitutional manner to better understand the many different belief systems. Within his class, John also includes a three-week unit on “Secular Humanism, Atheism and Agnosticism.”
The Supreme Court case of Abington vs. Schempp (1963) ruled that public officials dealing with private citizens may not elevate one religion over another, or show preference to belief over non-belief and vice versa. By providing students with a strong knowledge on both religious and non-religious cultures and ideologies, John strives to create a more educated and understanding society.
For those who are non-theists, it is important as well to have a solid grasp of the various major religions, their origins, traditions, similarities and differences, in order to have more constructive and rational discussions with people of religious faith, whether they be Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, etc. While many who identify as non-believers have familiarized themselves very well with the Christian bible, less may be known about the texts and traditions of the non-Christian religions. These lectures are designed to provide a well-rounded education about the major religions and why they should be taught to students.
This lecture series will take place over two separate weeknights, and focus on the following:
Wednesday, October 4th – Hinduism, Buddhism & Sikhism
Wednesday, October 11th – Judaism, Christianity & Islam
The presentations will be followed by an extensive Q&A and discussion session.
Each lecture will begin at 7:00 PM and be held in the auditorium of the Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 Lincoln Ave. in Skokie. This is a free event and open to the public. But we ask that anyone who would like to attend please RSVP on our Doodle poll. To reserve your spot, please click here.
This is a free event and open to the public

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FFRFMCC 5th Anniversary Party
2017-12-05 19:00 - 22:00 | Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant, 3471 N. Elston Ave., Chicago, IL, 60618, United States
Fall, 2017 marks five years since the Freedom From Religion Foundation Metropolitan Chicago Chapter was approved by the FFRF Executive Board as an official local chapter. And we feel this should be cause to celebrate!
Thanks to the activism and enthusiasm of our members, we’ve done a lot of good work in a short time, and had a lot of fun too. So we can think of no better time than the festive winter holiday season to throw a party!
The admission price of $30.00 per person includes a complete dinner buffet of the following:
— Mixed Green Salad w/ Balsamic Dressing
— Parmesan Encrusted Chicken
— Almond Encrusted Tilapia
— Winter Vegetable Risotto
— Sauteed Green Beans
— Bourbon Brown Sugar Carrots
— Roasted Red Potatoes
— Rice Pilaf
— Soft Drinks and Coffee
And no anniversary celebration would be complete without cake for dessert!
Please note the admission cost covers all food and soft drinks, tax and gratuity. A cash bar will be available.
Tickets for this event must be purchased in advance through our Eventbrite page by clicking on the following link:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ffrf-metropolitan-chicago-chapter-5th-anniversary-party-tickets-39861529909

There will be no ticket sales at the door. The RSVP deadline for this event will be Friday, December 1st.
So please join us as we celebrate our 5th anniversary, AND the Winter Solstice!!

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FFRFMCC January, 2018 Meetup
2018-01-29 19:00 - 21:30 | North Branch Pizza & Burger Co,, 4520 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL, 60025, United States
Our next meetup will take place on Monday, January 29th at North Branch Pizza & Burger Company, from 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM. North Branch is located at 4520 W. Lake Ave. in Glenview. This event will be held in the Wabash Room.
This is a dinner social which will include a buffet of the following:
-Blackened Chicken Sandwiches
-Pulled Pork Sandwiches
-Cajun Salmon Sandwiches
-Greek Salad
-Home Cut Fries
-Hummus w/Pita & Fresh Veggies
-Cheese Curds
-Soft Drinks
The cost for this event will be $25.00 per person, payable at the door. This includes tax and gratuity. Alcoholic beverages must be purchased separately.
In addition to being a social gathering, we will also have a short discussion regarding changes to FFRFMCC policies beginning in 2018.
For those who would like to attend this event, please click on the link below to RSVP on our Doodle poll.

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FFRFMCC February Meetup
2018-02-25 13:00 - 15:30 | Uncle Julio’s Mexican From Scratch, 1831 Abriter Ct., Naperville, IL, 60563, United States
We are pleased to announce our next chapter meetup.
A luncheon social will be held on Sunday, February 25th from 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM. This will take place at Uncle Julio’s Mexican From Scratch Restaurant, 1831 Abriter Ct., Naperville, IL, where we will have private space in the venue’s “Fiesta Room.”
Guests will have a choice of selecting from one of the following seven entrees:
– Steak & Enchilada Dinner served with a strip steak and two cheese & onion enchiladas

– Mesquite Grilled Salmon served with sauteed vegetables & pineapple pico de gallo

– Coronado Pollo Platter, consisting of chicken enchiladas, chicken taco & chicken tamale

– Grilled Vegetable Fajitas with portobella mushrooms, squash, zucchini, peppers & onions
– Carnitas Aztecas, braised pork with honey chipotle glaze, lime crema & fresh cilantro

– Grilled Fish Tacos, served with shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado crema w/cilantro rice & black beans

– Cozumel Shrimp Tacos served with cilantro rice and spicy black beans

And of course, Uncle Julio’s famous fresh guacamole!
The cost is $25.00 per person, and includes soft drinks, coffee, tea, tax & gratuity. A separate cash bar will also be available. This will be a “pay-at-the-door” event.
Those interested in attending this event, please click here to RSVP on our Doodle poll. Or, you may reserve your spot by contacting me directly.
So, please join us for some great food and secular conversation. Complaints regarding excessive religious intrusion into our government are highly encouraged!
Thanks, and hope to see you there!

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"Fighting Witch Hunters" - A Lecture by The Satanic Temple
2018-03-21 20:00 - 22:00 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
We are pleased to announce the FFRFMCC will act as a sponsor for a presentation to be given by Mr. Lucien Greaves, co-founder of the Satanic Temple and Ms. Sarah Pono Rivera, the director of Grey Faction, a campaign of the Satanic Temple tasked with eliminating pseudo-science in mental health care practices that are predicated on harmful conspiracist satanic delusions. Mr. Greaves and Ms. Pono Rivera will also be delivering this lecture at the 7th Annual Freethought Festival in Madison, WI on March 17th. They will be in Chicago on March 21st for a protest march against the ISSTD (International Society for the Study of Trauma and Disassociation) which works to impress satanic panic delusions into the minds of mental health consumers and the public at large.
The presentation entitled, “The Satanic Temple: Fighting Witch-Hunters,” will explain the role played by licensed mental health professionals in the creation and continuation of the “Satanic Panic” of the 1980’s through 1990’s, bringing the audience up-to-date on the problem of conspiracism and pseudoscience in mental health care today. Grey Faction advocates to disqualify distorted psychiatric therapy that impacts mental health consumers at large, calling for an end to pseudoscience, conspiracy theories, and religious superstition within the therapeutic setting.
The following provides details regarding this event:
Date: Wednesday, March 21st, 2018
Time: Lecture – 8:00 PM; Q&A – 8:45 PM; Meet & Greet – 9:00 PM
Place: The Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago (in the auditorium), 7574 Lincoln Ave., Skokie, IL 60077
Cost: $10.00 suggested donation
The Satanic Temple, like the Freedom From Religion Foundation, effectively battles state/church violations and religious intrusion into civil rights. They have been successful in removing Judeo-Christian monuments from public property, as well as being very active in the support of women’s reproductive rights.

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FFRFMCC Discussion Workshop: "Challenging Religious Beliefs"
2018-04-21 11:00 - 14:30 | North Branch Pizza & Burger Co,, 4520 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL, 60025, United States
The Freedom From Religion Foundation Metropolitan Chicago Chapter will hold its 6th in a series of discussion workshops on “Challenging Religious Beliefs.” During these discussions, a moderator will pose two separate topics/questions related to common religious talking points. Participants are encouraged to offer their viewpoints regarding how non-theists should best counter unsubstantiated ideological beliefs when presented to them by those of religious faith, in order to assist non-believers with sharpening their critical thinking skills.
The discussion will run for approximately 1 1/2 hours. A luncheon social with pizza, salad and soft drinks will take place at the conclusion of the workshop, for those who would like to continue the discussion!
This event will be held in the West Wing private room of North Branch Pizza and Burger Co. 4520 W. Lake St., Glenview, IL
Admission: $10 per person suggested donation (to help cover food/drink/venue costs)
For those who would like to attend, please RSVP on our Doodle poll by clicking here.
Thanks, and hope to see you there!

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FFRFMCC Lecture Series: World Religions
2018-05-22 19:00 - 22:00 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
In October, 2017, the FFRFMCC hosted a two-week lecture series by Mr. John Camardella, a Chicago-area high school teacher who teaches classes on the various religions of the world to Senior-level students as part of a public high school curriculum.
John Camardella is in his 15th year of teaching at Prospect High School. For the past eight years, he has taught two stand-alone World Religion elective courses, and has worked to advance the curriculum at the national level. Currently, he is an Education Fellow working to pilot curriculum alongside Dr. Diane Moore at the Religious Literacy Project at Harvard Divinity School . Last year, John was one of two high school teachers in the country who helped develop a framework for how to teach about religion in public schools. John also teaches religion courses to adults and a graduate level course for teachers and administrators, making him a most qualified person to ensure that any public school education regarding world religions is comparative and informative, and not designed to promote any one specific religion.
In his spare time, he travels to improve his curriculum and understanding, having studied religion in Turkey, Cambodia, Iceland, the Czech Republic, Indonesia, China, Greece, Thailand, Austria, Israel and the West Bank, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, and Costa Rica.
During our initial lectures, John educated the audiences on the history of the Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, as well as non-Abrahamic religions such as Hinduism, Sikhism, and Buddhism. Following each lecture, an extensive Q&A provided greater insight to these religious traditions.
The FFRFMCC is pleased to announce our second series of lectures from Mr. Camardella. Here is a summary of the upcoming lecture topics:
May 22nd — The spread of Christianity beginning with the Apostle Paul and continuing through the founding of America. Special emphasis will be placed on the early church in the Mediterranean region, the role of Constantine, and the early settlers in the New World. John will also discuss how Christianity divided into several denominations.
May 29th — How the different faith traditions are handling the issue of Climate Change in diverse ways. Case Studies published at Harvard Divinity School will be provided as John explores Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu perspectives on the topic.
As with the first lecture series, each evening will conclude with an extensive Q&A session.
We hope you will mark your calendars for each of these fascinating and highly educational lectures.

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FFRFMCC Lecture Series: World Religions
2018-05-29 19:00 - 22:00 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
The FFRFMCC will be hosting its fourth lecture on “World Religions,” presented by Mr. John Camardella.
John is a Chicago-area high school teacher who teaches classes on the various religions of the world to Senior-level students as part of a public high school curriculum. He is in his 15th year of teaching at Prospect High School. For the past eight years, he has taught two stand-alone World Religion elective courses, and has worked to advance the curriculum at the national level. Currently, he is an Education Fellow working to pilot curriculum alongside Dr. Diane Moore at the Religious Literacy Project at Harvard Divinity School . Last year, John was one of two high school teachers in the country who helped develop a framework for how to teach about religion in public schools. John also teaches religion courses to adults and a graduate level course for teachers and administrators, making him a most qualified person to ensure that any public school education regarding world religions is comparative and informative, and not designed to promote any one specific religion.
During his previous lecture on May 22nd, John delivered a fascinating presentation on the spread of Christianity, beginning with the Apostle Paul and continuing through the settlers in the new World and the founding of America. He also provided great historical insight into the role of Constantine, and how he had “weaponized” Christianity to attain power.
The next lecture will focus on how the different faith traditions are handling the worldwide issue of climate change in diverse ways. Case Studies published at Harvard Divinity School will be provided as John explores Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu perspectives on the topic.
As with our previous lectures, this will conclude with an extensive Q&A session.
Admission is free!

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FFRFMCC Summer Social
2018-08-11 12:00 - 15:00 | Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant, 3471 N. Elston Ave., Chicago, IL, 60618, United States
We are pleased to announce that our next FFRFMCC meetup will be a “Summer Luncheon Social!”
Join us for brunch and sunshine as we gather in the beautiful outdoor garden of Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant. Their incredible weekend brunch buffet includes an assortment of:
Homemade Salads
Appetizers
Hot Luncheon Entrees du jour
Imported Cheese Display
House Smoked Atlantic Salmon
Peel & Eat Shrimp
Irish Eggs Benedict
“Made To Order” Omelet Station
Bacon | Sausage | Corned Beef Hash
French Toast & Waffles
Chief’s Famous Fish & Chips
Assorted Breads | Mini Pastries | Fresh Fruit
Build your own ice cream sundae and a Milk and White Chocolate Fountains
And much, much more!
Admission price includes tax and gratuity. Beverages must be purchased separately. If the weather gods choose not to cooperate with us, we will move inside the restaurant.
Date: Saturday, August 11, 2018
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Place: Chief O’Neill’s Pub & Restaurant, 3471 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL 60618
Cost: $25.00 per person
Note: Reservations for this event must be paid for in advance. NO tickets will be sold at the door. The reservation deadline is Friday, August 3rd, 2018.
Please click here for the link to our Eventbrite page to purchase your tickets(s):

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FFRFMCC November Meetup - Pizza & Game Night Social
2018-11-15 18:30 - 21:30 | North Branch Pizza & Burger Co,, 4520 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL, 60025, United States
We are pleased to announce our November meetup. The plan is to have a fun evening which will be a Pizza and Game Night Social.
It has certainly been a stressful few months leading up to the mid-terms. So, join in as we partake in some post-election relaxation!
The evening event will consist of a buffet of pizza, salad, appetizers and soft drinks. We’ll also have on hand a variety of good old fashioned games for groups to enjoy while we converse about issues important to the non-theist community. Or, those who would just like to simply engage in good, secular conversation, sans the games, are welcome to do so.
To reserve your spot for this event, please click here to RSVP on our Doodle poll. The reservation deadline will be Tuesday, November 13th.
So, before we gorge ourselves on Thanksgiving dinner while having frustrating discussions with religious relatives, let us enjoy an evening together with our secular family – with no “grace” before we eat!

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Revised Date for FFRFMCC Winter Dinner Social
2019-02-11 18:30 - 21:30 | Moretti’s Ristorante, 6415 Dempster St., Morton Grove, IL, 60053, United States
We are pleased to announce a rescheduled date for our Winter Dinner Social. This event will now take place on Monday, February 11th.
All other details remain the same:
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Place: Moretti’s Ristorante, 6415 Dempster St., Morton Grove
FFRFMCC Member Cost: $20.00 per person, Non-Member Cost: $25.00 per person (payable at the door)
Admission cost will include all food, soft drinks, tax and gratuity. There will be a customized menu with the choice of one of eight separate dinner entree options, including:
Crispy Chicken Romano
Canadian Salmon
Rustic Penne Pasta
Eggplant Parmesan
Shrimp Scampi
Mile High Lasagna (Meat or Meatless)
Apple Walnut Salad with or w/o grilled chicken (Gluten Free)
Lemon Chicken (Gluten Free)

Each entree will include the choice of either a cup of soup or side salad.
Admission cost includes all food, soft drinks, tax and gratuity. A cash bar will be available and alcoholic beverages must be purchased separately. Plenty of free parking is available!
All who would like to attend can make their reservations by clicking here.
The RSVP deadline for this event is Friday, February 8th.

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FFRFMCC Film Screening - "Losing Our Religion"
2019-03-23 15:00 - 19:30 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
We are pleased to announce our next chapter event will be a screening of the film “Losing Our Religion.” a documentary focusing on clergy from different religious traditions who no longer believe in what they’ve been preaching.
Film makers were allowed access to members of The Clergy Project, an organization founded by Dan Barker, Richard Dawkins, Daniel Dennett and Linda LaScola, intended to offer safe haven for ministers, pastors, priests, rabbis, imams, and other clergy whose lives have been dedicated to preaching their religious teachings, but now find themselves struggling to hold on to their friends, their community, their livelihoods, and even their family after losing their faith.
Pizza and refreshments will be served immediately following the film. Here are the details:
Date: Saturday, March 23, 2019
Time: 3:00—5:30 PM (Screening & Discussion); 5:30 PM—7:30 PM (Pizza & Socializing)
Place: Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 Lincoln Ave., Skokie, IL
Admission:
Movie Screening: Free
Pizza Social: $5 Suggested Donation
To reserve your spot, please click here to RSVP on our Doodle poll.

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"Fear of a Black Atheist: How Religion Crippled the Black Community"
2019-04-27 17:00 - 19:00 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
We are pleased to announce the Freedom From Religion Foundation Metropolitan Chicago Chapter will be hosting a speaking engagement with Mandisa Thomas, President of Black Nonbelievers, Inc.
Black Nonbelievers is an organization that works to encourage more Blacks to come out and stand strong with their nonbelief in the face of such strong religious overtones.
Mandisa currently serves on the Boards for American Atheists and the Reason Rally Coalition, and previously for Foundation Beyond Belief and the Secular Coalition for America. She is also an active speaker and has presented at conferences and conventions for the Freedom from Religion Foundation, Secular Student Alliance, and many others.
Her presentation will be entitled, “Fear of a Black Atheist: How Religion Crippled the Black Community.”
While the Black community makes up approximately 12 percent of the U.S. population, 79 percent still identify as religious, which makes the subject of atheism challenging. Mandisa will discuss this high degree of religiosity, how the Black Nonbelievers organization is making progress, and ways which the larger secular community as a whole can help.
At the conclusion of her talk, there will be a question and answer session.
Admission is free!
So, please join us for this insightful presentation.

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"An Evening with Roy Zimmerman!"
2019-05-11 20:00 - 22:00 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
Progressive and secular satirical singer/songwriter is coming back to the Chicago area.
In the current national nightmare, Roy’s signature blend of heart and hilarity has never been more necessary. His 2019 tour, RiZe Up, is 90 minutes of original songs blending a funny and forceful affirmation of peace and social justice.
Roy’s songs have been heard on HBO and Showtime, and his videos have garnered tens of millions of views. He has shared stages with Bill Maher, Ellen DeGeneres, Robin Williams, Arlo Guthrie, John Oliver and George Carlin. He tours the country constantly with his wife and co-writer Melanie Harby. His performance this year will be the featured attraction of the Second Saturday Coffeehouse, hosted by the Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago and co-sponsored by the FFRFMCC.
Date: Saturday, May 11th, 2019
Time: 8:00 PM (doors will open at 7:30 PM)
Place: The Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 Lincoln Ave., Skokie, IL 60077
Cost: $20 suggested donation
The FFRFMCC will provide refreshments before and after the performance. And Roy will be selling copies of his CDs!
Please join us for an evening of fun and frivolity!

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"The Founding Myth": A Discussion with Andrew Seidel and Jerry Coyne"
2019-06-11 19:30 - 22:00 | University of Illinois at Chicago, 750 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL, 60607, United States
We invite you to attend our next chapter event, which will be a discussion between Andrew Seidel,
Freedom From Religion Foundation Director of Strategic Response, and Jerry Coyne, University of Chicago Professor of Evolutionary Biology. This will be a one-on-one interview with Andrew about his new book, “The Founding Myth: Why Christian Nationalism is Un-American.”
The focus will be on such topics as:

“Does a national motto ‘In God We Trust,’ the Declaration of Independence, and other historical ‘evidence’ prove that America was founded on Judeo-Christian principles?”
“Are the Ten Commandments the basis for American law?”
“Are science and religion compatible?”

Copies of “The Founding Myth: Why Christian Nationalism is Un-American” will be available for purchase, and Mr. Seidel will conduct a book signing following the discussion.
Date: Tuesday, June 11, 2019
Time: 7:30 PM
Place: University of Illinois at Chicago, Student Center East Building, Fort Dearborn Room B, 750 S. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60607
Admission: Free. Space is limited
Parking is conveniently located directly across the street at the campus’ Halsted Street Parking facility, 760 W. Taylor St. (entrance on Taylor St.)

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FFRFMCC June Dinner Social
2019-06-26 18:30 - 21:30 | North Branch Pizza & Burger Co,, 4520 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL, 60025, United States
Please join in for a freethought gathering of good food, drink and secular conversation.
Date: Wednesday, June, 26th, 2019
Place: North Branch Pizza & Burger Co., 4520 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL (in the Wabash Room)
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
This will be an “open menu” dinner event, and each guest will be responsible for their own food and drink bills.
During the evening, we will be collecting for the Maine Township Food Pantry. Attendees who would like to bring a few non-perishable food items (canned or packaged goods) for donation are encouraged to do so.
To reserve your spot for this event, please click here to RSVP on our Doodle poll. The reservation deadline will be Monday, June 24th.

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"Is Atheism Still a Political Taboo?" -- A Presentation by Hemant Mehta
2019-09-18 19:30 - 21:30 | Ethical Humanist Society of Chicago, 7574 N. Lincoln Ave., Skoke, IL, 60077, United States
We are pleased to announce the FFRFMCC will sponsor a speaking engagement by Mr. Hemant Mehta. Hemant is an author, blogger, and host of the website, The Friendly Atheist. His presentation will be entitled:
“Is Atheism Still a Political Taboo?”
As we move closer and closer to our next major election in November, 2020, of primary concern to non-theists and those who believe in maintaining our secular government will be a close examination of which candidates will strive the most to maintain the “wall of separation” between religion and government. The formation of the Congressional Freethought Caucus in 2018, led by openly non-religious Democratic House Representative Jared Huffman of California, is helping to pave the way for more secular-minded candidates to seek public office. The objective of the Freethought Caucus is to encourage science and reason-based solutions and defend the secular founding of our government. It will therefore be incumbent upon freethinking voters to encourage current office holders in their congressional districts, or those they intend to vote into office in the upcoming election, to consider joining the Freethought Caucus to expand the collective and work to keep religion where it belongs — in houses of worship, and NOT within the halls of government.
This is also coming at a time when one of the two major political parties, that being the Democratic National Committee, has adopted a resolution recognizing the contributions of non-believers, and acknowledges that religiously unaffiliated individuals are now the largest “religious” group within the Democratic Party.
But, for decades now, declared atheism has been a stumbling block for many political candidates in the United States where espousing religious faith has been considered a prerequisite for ensuring a successful election campaign. Hemant will discuss the origins of this “taboo” and how secular values may finally be on the rise again in our political system.
So, please join us for this must-hear presentation.
A Q&A session will immediately follow. Hemant will also have copies of books he has written or edited on hand for sale!

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FFRFMCC Winter Social Luncheon
2019-12-07 13:00 - 16:00 | North Branch Pizza & Burger Co,, 4520 W. Lake Ave., Glenview, IL, 60025, United States
In celebration of the upcoming Winter Solstice, the Freedom From Religion Foundation Metropolitan Chicago Chapter will be hosting a winter holiday luncheon social.
Please join us in a warm and welcoming environment of fellowship and freethought (we promise not to say grace!).

Date: Saturday, December 7th, 2019

Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Place: North Branch Pizza & Burger Co.
4520 W. Lake Ave.
Glenview, IL 60025
(in the Wabash Room)

This will be an “open menu” event, and each guest will be responsible for their own food and drink bills.
For those who would like to attend, please click here to RSVP on our Doodle poll. Space is limited so an RSVP is required.
We look forward to seeing old friends and making new ones to celebrate the REAL reason for the season as we eat, drink, and be merry!
All are welcome!

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FFRFMCC Legal Presentation and Spring Dinner Social -- CANCELED
2020-03-14 14:00 - 19:30 | IL
We are sorry to announce that our two events scheduled for this Saturday, March 14th are being canceled due to concerns over the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
This is a precautionary measure to keep people as safe as possible, and also to do our part to help contain this virus. This cancellation involves both the FFRF legal presentation that was to take place at the Niles-Maine District Library at 2:00 PM, and the Spring Dinner Social at Las Fuentes Mexican Restaurant at 4:30 PM.
Our hope is these events can be re-scheduled in the future.
Thank you for your understanding.

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