Trashing Human Rights

Posted on November 6, 2020 by eastlon

A humanist calls for vigilance in these troubled times. Barking and Dagenham Post opinion piece 4.11.20

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Free Mubarak Bala!!!

Posted on October 15, 2020 by eastlon
Today, Thursday 15 October, is a global day of action for Mubarak Bala, President of the Humanist Association of Nigeria. Bala is facing imprisonment and even death for blasphemy in Kano State. Today was due to be his first hearing, although it was postponed this morning until Monday (perhaps in response to the global protests that have been organised by humanists). Until last week, Mubarak had been held in detention without access to a lawyer since his arrest in April. We were horrified by rumours that he had been killed in prison. But last Wednesday, the humanist community celebrated the news that he was not only alive but had finally – after five long months – been granted access to his legal team and his wife. His lawyer said this happened because the international pressure campaign is clearly working, and that Mubarak was extremely glad to hear of how much support he’s getting. 

Mubarak’s Fundamental Rights petition is now due to be heard at the Abuja High Court. And it’s absolutely vital we keep up the fight at this stage. That’s why, along with Humanists International, we’re doing all that we can to support Mubarak and his legal defence.   We have helped humanist MPs and peers repeatedly raise Mubarak’s case in Parliament, and have discussed his case extensively with the Government ourselves. Further, representatives from Humanists UK and Humanists International will be joining the London-based Free Mubarak Bala protest at the Nigerian High Commission this evening. You can help. Spread the word on social media, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #FreeMubarakBala
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Question questioned

Posted on August 12, 2020 by eastlon

The 2021 census is set to be skewed to disadvantage the non-religious. Opinion piece Barking & Dagenham Post 12.8.20.

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Challenge to unfair marriage law

Posted on July 30, 2020 by eastlon

Humanists are hopeful for a breakthrough in the long quest for legal recognition of Humanist weddings in England & Wales. Ilford Recorder ‘Faith Column’ piece 6.8.20.

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Tackling the roots of racism

Posted on July 9, 2020 by eastlon

The deep roots of racism, its brutal consequences, and the pseudo-science that underpins it. Opinion Piece Newham Recorder 8.7.20

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Nigerian Humanist Leader at Risk

Posted on July 9, 2020 by eastlon

A message from Leo Igwe in support of Mubarak Bala, President of the Humanist Association of Nigeria, detained since 28 April 2020. View here.

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Black lives matter

Posted on June 12, 2020 by eastlon

East London Humanists support demands for action against racism and for greater awareness. Opinion piece Barking and Dagenham Post 18.6.20.

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Plagues, progress & humanism

Posted on May 1, 2020 by eastlon

An appreciation of humanist values and progress in these dark times. Opinion piece Barking & Dagenham Post 6.5.20.

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What would Pepys say?

Posted on April 14, 2020 by eastlon

Enduring values, progress and hope. Opinion piece Newham Recorder 22.4.20.

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Hope springs eternal

Posted on March 20, 2020 by eastlon

A humanist perspective on the virus crisis. Humanism = Atheism +. Opinion piece Barking & Dagenham Post 25.3.20 & Spiritual Life column Ilford Recorder 26.3.20.

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