Program Live and via Zoom, 7:00 pm (EDT) Saturday, May 17, 2025:
Come and explore the intellectual roots of atheism — from Epicurus to today — while addressing common misconceptions, highlighting key moments in American atheist history, and examining current trends and challenges.
Join us at 7:00 p.m. (EDT), on Saturday, May 17, when Chris McLaughlin, the State Director of the Secular Alliance of Michigan and President of Michigan Atheists, will lead us in our examination of atheism, secular identity, and the broader cultural and civic landscape of non-belief in America.
Chris, a lifelong atheist and activist, speaks regularly on atheism, secular identity, and the growing influence of nonreligious Americans in public life. His talk will trace the intellectual and cultural roots of atheism from ancient Greece to the modern atheist movement in the U.S., while debunking myths and offering insight into who atheists are today.
Chris has founded multiple secular initiatives in Michigan, and leads efforts to build inclusive, evidence-based communities grounded in a naturalistic worldview. He has a background in business and economics and holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a minor in Economics from the University of Michigan.
Live Presentation
If you are able to attend the live presentation, you have the opportunity to mingle with your fellow Mensans and guests at our usual location:
Northwest Unitarian Universalist Church in Southfield
23925 Northwestern Highway
Southfield, MI 48075
Doors open at 6:30 pm (EDT). The program begins at 7:00 pm (EDT).
Ticket prices
Members 13+ years old: $5 or buy a strip of 4 tickets for $15.
Guests 13+ years old: $7
Members and guests 12 & under: Free
Exact change is appreciated!
Following the presentation, please join us for dinner at:
Buddy’s Pizza
31646 Northwestern Highway
Farmington Hills, MI 38334
Virtual Presentation (Zoom)
If you prefer to to attend virtually, pre-register:
- click tinyurl.com/SEMM-2025-Gathering
- choose “May 17, 2025 6:30 pm” from the drop-down box
- fill in your name and email address
- click the “Register” button
The Zoom room opens at 6:30 pm (EDT) for mingling. The program starts at 7:00 pm (EDT).
There is no charge for the Zoom presentation, but, due to rising costs, your donation via PayPal is greatly appreciated.
- click PayPal.com
- log in (or sign up)
- click the “Send” button
- Enter the e-mail address: treasurer@webmaster
- click the “Next” button
- enter payment amount ($5 is recommended, but feel free to send any amount)
- fill “What’s this for” with “SEMM Zoom Presentations”
- click the “Next” button
- select your payment method
- click “Send”
- bask in our appreciation