July 24, 2017 Newsletter

Later today a BC court will decide whether to convict fundamentalist Mormons Winston Blackmore and James Oler with polygamy. They are alleged to have married over 30 women between them.

This trial brings into conflict some of the values at the core of Humanism.

On the one hand, the principles of liberty ask us to support the free association of individuals, including in non-traditional relationships (for example, same sex couples or polyamorous relationships). In fact, we had UBC Philosophy Professor Carrie Jenkins talk to our Vancouver group last month about the evolution of the societal concepts of love. Similarly, our allies at the BC Civil Liberties Association have argued vociferously that the polygamy law is unconstitutional.

On the other hand, Humanists have a deep concern over how religious dogma leads to exploitation and violence against women and girls in this community. We have a duty to fight for the oppressed and to seek to reduce injustice in the world.

Whatever today's verdict, it is not likely to be the final word on this case.

If you are interested in hearing more about the details of this case, follow Vancouver Sun columnist Daphne Bramham, who has been covering this story for years and will be speaking at our Vancouver meeting in August.