Building Bridges: The Impact of Sunday Assembly Los Angeles Hosting an International Conference

In the heart of Los Angeles, Sunday Assembly Los Angeles (SALA), a proud chapter of the American Humanist Association (AHA), stands as a beacon of community and shared values. October 17th – 20th, SALA is set to host an international conference, AssembleCon, marking a pivotal step in uniting secular communities from across the globe. The significance of this event transcends the geographical boundaries of our city, presenting a unique opportunity to foster global connections.

“The power of community is not just in the sharing of our values but in the act of coming together. Hosting this international conference allows us to weave a tighter fabric of allies and friends worldwide,” explains Amy Boyle, cofounder of SALA. “One thing everyone seems excited about is the JPL/NASA panel that features a diverse collection of astrophysicists, engineers, planetary scientists, and flight controllers, reflecting the conference’s theme, ‘Reach for the Stars.’ Furthering that star power are appearances from celebrities like Rachel Bloom,” continues Boyle. This gathering will serve as a junction for people to network, exchange ideas, and bolster their sense of unity and purpose. It’s about turning dialogue into lasting relationships and collaborations that bridge geographical divides.

The conference is built around the fundamental principles of humanism: reason, empathy, and a commitment to human rights, encapsulated by Sunday Assembly’s mantra, “Live Better, Help Often, and Wonder More.” Through a series of workshops, panel discussions, and keynote speeches, the event will explore these themes in depth.

In addition to intellectual engagement, the conference will feature singalongs and community sharing sessions, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collective spirit. “Music and personal stories have a unique way of bringing people together, creating a deeper connection among attendees,” notes Sam Renderos, SALA’s interim Executive Director.

The conference will increase the visibility of SALA and, by extension, the AHA, and hopes to draw significant media attention. This visibility will be great for attracting new members and partners, enhancing the influence of humanist perspectives in public discourse. “Hosting an international event not only puts us on the map but also amplifies our voice in global conversations,” remarks Aurora Ignacio, an important member of the Assembly Team.

Educational sessions will vary from scientific discussions to ethical debates and workshops on community activism, all designed to provide personal growth and development opportunities for attendees. “Every session is a building block for a more enlightened approach to living and interacting with our world,” adds Ignacio.

Addressing the challenges of hosting such a large and diverse event includes tackling logistical issues and ensuring inclusivity. Overcoming these challenges can pave the way for future events and establish SALA as a leader within the humanist movement. The success of AssembleCon could serve as a blueprint for similar future endeavors, proving that even a local community can have a global impact.

As SALA prepares to welcome the world to Los Angeles, the excitement within the community is palpable. This conference is not just an event; it’s a declaration of the strength and resilience of humanist values in a world that often seems divided. It is a call to action for all who believe in a reason-based, empathetic approach to human welfare and social progress.

The hope is that AssembleCon is more than a gathering; it is a momentous occasion that will further the cause of humanism globally. As we look forward to this event, let us remember the power of our collective effort and the impact it can have on our world.

Visit tinyurl.com/SACon2024 and use code AHA2024 for a 10% discount on your ticket order. We would love to see everyone October 17-20th here in Venice Beach. If you need help finding a place to stay, or if you’re interested in need-based scholarship tickets, please email Ryan at Ryan@sundayassemblyla.org.