The BC Humanist Association is joining over 150 Canadian organizations in the launch today of six principles for a Just Recovery for All. The BCHA has also signed onto the Vancouver Just Recovery's joint statement.

The movements for a just recovery are calling on governments to ensure that recovery efforts support the transition to a more equitable, sustainable and diversified economy, and not entrench outdated economic and social systems that jeopardize the health and wellbeing of people, worsen the climate crisis, or perpetuate the exploitation or oppression of people.

The Principles, in brief, ask that recovery plans:

1. Put people’s health and wellbeing first, no exceptions.
2. Strengthen the social safety net and provide relief directly to people.
3. Prioritize the needs of workers and communities.
4. Build resilience to prevent future crises.
5. Build solidarity and equity across communities, generations and borders
6. Uphold Indigenous rights and work in partnership with Indigenous peoples.

As an endorsing group, the BCHA is now consulting its members on specific policy recommendations on what a Just Recovery looks like from a Humanist perspective.

Learn more at JustRecoveryForall.ca and vancouverjustrecovery.ca

Humanist organizations have a long history of supporting a more just world. Here is a sampling of statements from Humanist organizations connecting Humanism to fights for a more just world.

BC Humanist Association, Issues Summary:

We take an intersectional view of social justice issues, recognizing that working to liberate all marginalized communities is the best way to lift the prospects of any one group. Humanism motivates us to act on a moral imperative to transform systems of oppression because they are incompatible with the aspirations of humanism.

Humanists International, General Statement of Policy:

Humanists assert the value of the individual living in society and accept a responsibility for cooperating in building a more humane society for all based on social and economic justice. Every member of society should be equipped to participate in the life of the community to the fullest extent that they are able. It is thus a requirement on the community and our social responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to food, safe water, shelter, education, employment and healthcare.

American Humanist Association, Social Justice:

Humanists are naturally committed to social justice as a prerequisite to peace and happiness for the greatest number and see it as a moral failing to stand by while others are denied their civil and human rights. Humanistic social justice advocacy involves respect for the equality of all people, compassion for their dignity and welfare, and a conviction that positive change requires human intervention.

Humanists UK, A humanist view of society:

We see rational thinking and kindness not only as the best basis for sound government policy, but the best recipe for a happier, more fulfilled, more harmonious society as well. With this in mind, we pursue democratic reforms to remove institutional bias from government, particularly around the role of religion or belief in society. We recognise and respect the deep commitment of other people to religious and other non-humanist views, and do not seek a privileged position for humanism. At the same time we reject any claims that others may make to privileged positions by virtue of their own beliefs.

Sign up to receive updates from the BC Humanist Association