02/01/2025
Sandi Toksvig, television presenter, writer and raconteur, has published a message in her role as patron of Humanists UK, formerly the British Humanist Association. In it, Sandi says "I'm a humanist because I want to help change the world. Because I don't need an invisible friend telling me how to do it. And because I don't need a reward when I'm done. As you know, Humanists UK has been at the forefront of numerous campaigns that aim to foster a society where everyone can live with dignity and freedom. As a member of the LGBT community, I believe that every individual deserves to live authentically, free from discrimination and prejudice. Humanists UK is committed to advocating for policies that protect and uplift human beings, promoting inclusive education, and challenging – at the highest levels – harmful religious practices like so-called 'conversion therapy' and anti-abortion blockades outside hospitals. There are only two countries in the world where representatives of the state religion automatically get a seat in the legislature. They are the UK and Iran. A curious and indeed uncomfortable club of two to belong to. These bishops can vote on every law that is passed and indeed, nine of them turned up to vote in 2013 on the Act of Parliament which introduced same-sex marriage. They all voted against. Of course, everyone is entirely free to think as they please. What they should not be allowed to do is to hold sway in the Houses of Parliament when they are only there by dint of their religion. It doesn't matter what your faith is or isn't. It's discriminatory, and it has to stop. Together, we can create a society of true democracy, and one that not only accepts, but celebrates diversity. " You can find out more about the work of Humanists UK by visiting their website at https://humanists.uk/
