In a time when politics-as-usual is being rejected en masse, the time is right for a movement demanding change. The secular movement is here and it will be out in force at Reason Rally 2016 on June 4 at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The rally will showcase a growing voting bloc that wants science and facts to be the basis of public discourse.
The largest gathering of nonreligious people in history will reinforce the increasing power and number of those who do not want religion to determine public policy. Both Gallup and Pew have found that the number of unaffiliated adults is growing so fast, (especially among younger Americans), that they have eclipsed mainstream Protestants.
Reason Rally is appealing to people of all ages, genders, and races to come together around the common need for sound public policy. An ever-growing roster of speakers and entertainers is speaking up for reason and joining the rally. Scientist-educator Bill Nye, comedian Julia Sweeney, among others, will be joined by:
Lizz Winstead, co-creator of and former head writer for “The Daily Show,” and a reproductive-rights activist, will speak at the rally. “I am well aware that science and reason are in very short supply these days,” she said. “That’s why it is so important to be part of a movement where fact-based information and decision-making are front and center!”
Penn Jillette, magician, of Penn & Teller, is an outspoken activist whose passion for atheism and scientific skepticism knows no bounds. “Everyone who has ever buckled a seatbelt or ducked at gunfire is part atheist and a little afraid that God might not protect them. We need to let America know that some of us aren’t even pretending to believe any more.”
Amber Heard, the actress soon to play Queen Mera in upcoming DC Universe films, will speak at Reason Rally 2016, too. “Reason and free thought are important to me,” she said. “Coupled with and enabling the pursuit of knowledge, they are essential to my humanity.”
Sophia Kameron, the 15-year-old songwriter and artist, will debut her single “Connected” at the rally. The new song showcases her commitment to raising awareness of equality for all, regardless of race or religion. “It’s never been more important for people my age to voice their concerns about the world around them. My song “Connected” was inspired by the idea that we are all one and hold a responsibility for the world we live in.”
Among the other stars who will speak up for reason are:
- James Randi is the world’s foremost investigator of paranormal claims. He is the creator of the James Randi Educational Foundation and the author of “Flim-Flam!”
- Mark White, bass player for the Spin Doctors, and passionate musician who plays with several bands in different genres, is an active member of the atheist community.
- Shelley Segal, a singer who performed at the 2012 Reason Rally and whose debut, “An Atheist Album” has inspired freethinkers around the world.
For the full list of speakers and entertainers, check the website.
