The Freedom From Religion Foundation invites you to celebrate its 48th annual convention and its “Forward!” theme Oct. 17-19 in a unique setting: an oceanfront retreat at the Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort, 10000 Beach Club Dr., Myrtle Beach, S.C. After delighting in FFRF’s line-up of inspiring and informative speakers, you can fully enjoy the fine beaches, an indoor pool, a boardwalk and nearby attractions.
Our trump card, so to speak, will be author and honoree Mary L. Trump, a sharp critic of the current administration who will be receiving FFRF’s Emperor Has No Clothes Award, reserved for public figures who make known their dissent from religion. Trump will be joined by other honorees, including:
- Dr. Maggie Carpenter, a brave abortion rights activist under prosecution by Louisiana and Texas for dispensing medication abortion pills to patients there, who will receive FFRF’s Forward Award.
- Jamelle Bouie, the distinguished New York Times columnist, receiving FFRF’s Clarence Darrow Award.
- Mubarak Bala, the Nigerian atheist and human rights activist recently released from prison in Nigeria after five years’ detention for committing “blasphemy,” receiving FFRF’s Avijit Roy Courage Award.
- Nancy Northup, president of the cutting-edge Reproductive Rights Center, which is receiving FFRF’s Henry Zumach Freedom From Religious Fundamentalism Award of $50,000.
- Two student activists, Bailey Harris, 19, who is receiving the Diane and Stephen Uhl Out of God’s Closet Scholarship of $5,000, and Eli Frost, 18, who is receiving the Beverly and Richard Hermsen Student Activist Award of $5,000.
Other powerful speakers include Katherine Stewart, last year’s Freethought Heroine honoree, returning to talk about her recent exposé titled, “Money, Lies and God: Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy.”
FFRF’s new Regional State Manager Mickey Dollens, a seated state representative in the Oklahoma Legislature, will be speaking directly on the convention theme with his talk, “F.O.R.W.A.R.D.: Your Blueprint for Effective Citizen Lobbying.” If you’re feeling powerless in today’s political landscape, Dollens will explain how to find key lawmakers, organize your strategy, reach out with impact, watchdog accountability, adapt to challenges, raise awareness, and drive change. With real-world stories and actionable tips, he will offer hope and a clear path to influence policy at the grassroots level.
Speaking of secular state legislators, the convention also will host FFRF’s third annual panel made up of such representatives. Herb Silverman, who overturned South Carolina’s unconstitutional religious test to run for office, will give a short welcoming address. Radio and television personality and entertainer John Fugelsang, whose forthcoming book is called “Separate Church and Hate,” will be the Saturday evening final speaker.
Other presenters include students winning FFRF 2025 essay competitions, and reports on the year’s highlights by FFRF Co-Presidents Dan Barker and Annie Laurie Gaylor, by FFRF’s legal team led by FFRF Legal Director Patrick Elliott and Deputy Legal Director Liz Cavell, and by the legislative team, led by Director of Governmental Affairs Mark Dann and State Policy Counsel Ryan Jayne.
Other speakers will be announced in subsequent issues and online at ffrf.org/convention2025.
Five ticketed meals, including FFRF’s popular “NonPrayer Breakfast,” will be offered this year, more than usual, in part because — aside from two in-house restaurants — meal choices outside the resort will be limited, unless you have a car or use Uber. A small-capacity shuttle that can be ordered ahead can take some participants to nearby restaurant strips in Myrtle Beach.
Early birds can check-in on the afternoon of Thursday, Oct. 16, and enjoy light appetizers and a cash bar before relaxing on their own. The convention opens formally at 9 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 17, following a complimentary continental breakfast. Friday evening ends with the traditional complimentary dessert reception and cash bar. The convention runs through Saturday evening, with FFRF’s annual membership and state representatives’ meetings taking place on Sunday morning, Oct. 19, ending by noon.
Book your own rooms at the Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort, 800-876-0010 (option 3 for Hilton Myrtle Beach), identifying yourself as an attendee of the “Freedom From Religion Foundation Annual Convention” using the code “FFR.” Or find the online direct link under “Hotel” at ffrf.org/convention2025. The favorable off-season rate is $165/night plus tax for a standard room, reserved on or before Monday, Sept. 22.
Don’t miss out on all the fun! Register online at ffrf.org/convention2025.
