MEDIA ADVISORY
February 6, 2015
Contact:
Merrill Miller, 202-238-9088 ext. 105, merrillmiller@americanhumanist.org
During the week of February 9, 2015, the Humanists of North Alabama, a chapter of the American Humanist Association, will be participating in “Wedding Week,” an event to offer free weddings to same-sex and opposite-sex couples in Alabama.
WHO: Louise Hardin, a humanist celebrant endorsed by the Humanist Society, which is an adjunct of the American Humanist Association, and a member of the Humanists of North Alabama, will be officiating weddings, along with numerous other ordained ministers. The Humanists of North Alabama currently has a list of lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender/queer (LGBTQ)-friendly ministers on its website, which can be viewed here.
WHERE: The Madison County Courthouse Square, 100 Northside Square, Huntsville, Alabama 35801
WHEN: February 9, 2015 until February 13, 2015, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm ET.
WHY: On February 9, 2015, a federal judge’s order lifting Alabama’s ban of marriages for same-sex couples is expected to take effect. Supporters of same-sex marriage are gathering at the Madison County Courthouse to offer free weddings to any couples who would like them in response to decisions by a Madison County judge and a Jackson County judge to cease performing office weddings.
The celebration of human life and dignity for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, is central to the humanist philosophy. Humanist celebrants will be available at the event to perform weddings for couples who do not wish to include religious traditions or language in their ceremonies. According to a recent Pew Research Center survey, 20 percent of American adults do not identify with any religion. To serve this growing number of nonreligious individuals, the Humanist Society endorses humanist celebrants to preside over secular ceremonies marking significant life events, including weddings.
MORE INFORMATION: More information about the Humanist Society can be found here and a full list of endorsed celebrants can be viewed here. More information about the Humanist Society of Alabama can be obtained here. Further information about “Wedding Week” can be found here.
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Founded in 1941 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the American Humanist Association works to protect the rights of humanists, atheists and other non-religious Americans. The AHA advances the ethical and life-affirming philosophy of humanism, which—without beliefs in any gods or other supernatural forces—encourages individuals to live informed and meaningful lives that aspire to the greater good of humanity.