Information About Membership

Welcome to the Ethical Humanist Society of Long Island

Who are we?

The Ethical Humanist Society of Long Island is a community of people from diverse backgrounds who seek to build a world that is just, equitable and sustainable and that helps all people grow and thrive.  We seek to instill ethics and compassion in our own lives and in the communities in which we live, work, study and participate.

What do we believe?

Ethical Humanism, also known as Ethical Culture, says that ethics is not a by-product of religion; instead, it forms the basis of religion.  While there is no litmus test on theological questions, the Society is non-theistic in practice. Humanism says that people have agency to create much of the world we live in and we do not rely on supernatural forces to manage our lives. We believe that people thrive best in a community in which we learn and grow together and where we support one another in times of joy and times of sorrow.

What is our duty?

We strive to be ethical in all our relationships.  People are responsible to be fair and honest with one another.  Since we are part of the natural world, we must preserve, nurture and support the planet that is our home. With an ethical perspective, we can build a world that is just, equitable, sustainable and in which the human potential can thrive.

Benefits of Membership

While membership is not necessary for participation in many of the Society’s activities, by joining as a member you will support the cause of Ethical Humanism and be a part of the Ethical Movement that began a century and a half ago to center on ethics and to build a better world.  Membership enables you to chair a committee and to vote for the Trustees of the Society or to become a Trustee and help determine its goals and direction.

In contrast to membership in, say, NPR or PBS where the support is monetary, membership in the Ethical Society means to participate actively in a community of people striving to fulfill a common mission to build a better world and cultivate their own ethical growth.  The founder of the Ethical Movement, Felix Adler, a philosopher, educator and social activist, said,

 “Societies for Ethical Culture exist to reinstate the essential motif of religion through the ages – the shared quest for the good life.  They foster a continuing effort to make ethical ideals effective in everyday living and to contribute to the perfection of humankind. They who make this creative ethical task their object will gain courage to meet life greatly…” 

Joining the Ethical Society is the beginning of a rich and engaging relationship.  Many of our members have been a part of the Society for years and, for some, it forms a large part of their lives.  We hope that you, too, can find inspiration and creative growth here in the Ethical Society.

Expectations of Membership

As a member, you would participate in and contribute to the life and mission of the Society and offer time that you have available to help in its functioning.  Members are expected to make an annual financial contribution in an amount set from time to time by the Board of Trustees, as well as in accord with your financial abilities. Membership contributions support the staff, the programs and the Meeting House of the Society.  Currently, the base dues are $500 a year or $42 a month for individual members and $750 a year or $62.50 a month for families.

How do I become a Member?

If you subscribe to these basic principles, you have found a home and community here at the Ethical Society.

Simply fill in the Application for Membership and we will send you a membership packet. One of our Membership Team will call you to help start your membership journey.

You will have an opportunity to meet with our Leader and speak about your expectations in joining our community as well as learn about its history and its plans for the future.