A community of atheists, agnostics, skeptics, humanists, and freethinkers in the Redlands area dedicated to reason, compassion, and human dignity.
Freethinkers Around Redlands (FAR) is a group dedicated to creating an environment where atheists, agnostics, freethinkers, skeptics, secularists, and humanists of all types can meet freely to share and enrich each other's lives and communities.
Regular gatherings where like-minded individuals can connect, share ideas, and build meaningful friendships.
Engaging in thought-provoking conversations about philosophy, science, ethics, and current events.
Working together to make a positive impact in our community through volunteer efforts and outreach programs.
Freethinkers Around Redlands (FAR) is dedicated to creating an environment wherein atheists, agnostics, freethinkers, skeptics, secularists, and humanists of all types can meet freely to share and enrich each other's lives and communities.
We believe firmly in the separation of church and state. We believe that humans are ultimately responsible for their world. We believe in service to the community and in the dignity of all people. We meet regularly to enjoy our lives while promoting these values.
The problem has always been, because non-theists don't have a designated place to meet such as a church each Sunday, it's much harder to find each other.
- Jill Braun, Co-founder
Freethinkers Around Redlands was officially founded by 12 committee members on October 10, 2015. Co-founders Jill Braun and Jeff Poggi started FAR because they wanted to feel connected to the secular community in the same way the religious community feels connected to one another when they gather.
The group began with just 35 members and has since grown into a vibrant community of freethinkers in the Redlands area.
We value evidence-based reasoning and the scientific method as the most reliable ways to understand our world. We encourage questioning, skepticism, and the ongoing pursuit of knowledge.
We firmly believe in the constitutional principle of separating religious institutions from government. This ensures freedom for all beliefs and protects both government and religion from undue influence by the other.
We believe in the inherent worth of all people and the importance of treating others with respect and compassion. We support human rights, equality, and social justice.
We are committed to making a positive impact in our community through volunteer work and activism. We believe in the human capacity to solve problems and improve lives through cooperative effort.
It's important to understand that FAR is not focused on criticizing religion or trying to convert religious individuals. We respect everyone's right to their own beliefs and opinions.
As Jill Braun explained, "There's far more interesting things to talk about like politics, social issues, art and entertainment. So it goes without saying that while we talk very little about our atheism, agnosticism and skepticism, there's also no room for self-righteousness. Judging others is of no interest to us."
Our purpose is more about acceptance and building a supportive community for those who share our secular worldview, rather than defining ourselves in opposition to religion.
Join us for regular social gatherings, intellectual discussions, and community service activities throughout the Redlands area.
Join us for craft beer and conversation at Escape Craft Brewery. Feel free to bring your own food. A perfect opportunity to meet fellow freethinkers in a relaxed setting.
Join us for dinner at various restaurants in the Redlands area. A casual setting to enjoy good food and stimulating conversation with fellow freethinkers.
Our booth at local outdoor markets provides an opportunity for the public to engage with atheists, ask questions, and learn more about secular worldviews.
Bring your furry friends for some exercise and socialization, followed by lunch with fellow freethinkers.
Informal book discussions where members can share their favorite reads and discuss ideas from science, philosophy, and more.
Test your knowledge in various categories while enjoying pizza and the company of fellow freethinkers.
A welcoming space for LGBTQIA individuals and allies in the secular community to connect and socialize.
At FAR, we believe in taking action to improve our community. We regularly organize volunteer opportunities for our members to give back.
Want to suggest a community service project? Reach out to us with your ideas, and let's work together to make a difference!
Explore resources related to freethinking, humanism, skepticism, and secularism.
A freethinker is someone who forms opinions based on reason and evidence, rather than tradition, authority, or established belief. Freethinkers value critical thinking and are willing to reconsider their positions when presented with new evidence.
Atheism is the absence of belief in deities, while agnosticism is the view that the existence of god(s) is unknown or unknowable. Many people identify as both — agnostic atheists don't believe in any gods but also don't claim to know with certainty that no gods exist.
Secular humanism is a philosophy that embraces human reason, ethics, and philosophical naturalism while specifically rejecting religious dogma as a basis for morality and decision-making. Secular humanists believe in the capacity of humans to be ethical and moral without religion or a god.
No, FAR welcomes atheists, agnostics, skeptics, humanists, and freethinkers of all types. What unites us is our commitment to reason, evidence, and critical thinking, not any specific belief or lack thereof regarding deities.
We believe that government institutions should remain neutral on matters of religion, neither favoring one religion over others nor nonreligion over religion. This principle ensures that all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs, are treated equally under the law.
The easiest way to get involved is to join our Meetup group and attend one of our events. You can also contact us through this website or our social media channels. We welcome new members and are always open to new ideas for events and activities.
by Phil Zuckerman
A practical guide to living a moral and ethical life without religion.
Center for Inquiry
A bimonthly magazine dedicated to promoting scientific inquiry and critical thinking.
by Carl Sagan
A passionate defense of scientific thinking in a world of pseudoscience and superstition.
by Stephen Law
A concise introduction to humanist thought and its historical development.
Advocating progressive values and equality for humanists, atheists, freethinkers, and the non-religious across the country.
Visit WebsiteFostering a secular society based on reason, science, freedom of inquiry, and humanist values.
Visit WebsiteWorking to protect the constitutional principle of separation between church and state.
Visit WebsiteEmpowering secular students to openly express their identity, build welcoming communities, and promote secular values.
Visit WebsiteAdvocating for the rights of nonreligious Americans and for a secular government that represents all citizens equally.
Visit WebsiteOur sister organization serving the broader Inland Empire area with events and community activities.
Visit WebsiteWe'd love to hear from you! Reach out with questions, suggestions, or to learn more about getting involved.
Ready to become part of our community? Join us for an upcoming event or contact us for more information about membership. All who share our values of reason, compassion, and human dignity are welcome!