HumanLight: A Secular Humanist Winter Celebration

HumanLight is a secular humanist holiday celebrated on 23 December. It honours the highest value of human beings and their right to happiness, development, and the expression of positive qualities.

Originating in 2001 in New Jersey, HumanLight was created as an alternative to religious winter holidays, allowing those who do not observe religious traditions to participate in a meaningful celebration. The holiday was officially recognised by the American Humanist Association in 2004.

The celebration focuses on secular values such as reason, compassion, humanity, and hope. In Australia, HumanLight is gaining popularity among secular humanists who hold events that promote these principles while respecting freedom of belief and inclusivity.

Date and Origin of the Holiday

HumanLight is celebrated annually on 23 December. The holiday was first observed in 2001 in New Jersey, initiated by a local humanist society. Over time, the idea of HumanLight gained traction and was adopted by other humanist organisations. In 2004, the holiday received official recognition from the American Humanist Association. The date of 23 December was deliberately chosen to allow people the option to celebrate HumanLight alongside other winter holidays, such as Christmas.

HumanLight in Australia

In Australia, the number of secular humanists celebrating HumanLight is steadily increasing, as it offers an alternative to traditional winter holidays. Australian humanist organisations actively support the HumanLight concept, promoting secular values and rational thinking throughout the community. In major cities across the country, HumanLight events are held, featuring candle-lighting evenings and charitable activities that engage participants in meaningful ways. These celebrations serve not only as festive gatherings but also as platforms to raise public awareness about human rights and the importance of a secular approach to life.

HumanLight in Australia provides a valuable option for those who do not observe religious holidays, allowing them to maintain a festive spirit during the winter season. The holiday is often celebrated in intimate settings among family and friends, emphasising inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives. Australian humanist organisations adhere closely to the principles of HumanLight, consciously avoiding conflicts with religious communities and upholding freedom of belief. This respectful approach fosters a harmonious environment where secular celebrations can coexist alongside other traditions.

Secular Humanism and Its Values

HumanLight is celebrated by adherents of secular humanism, a branch of humanism that rejects the existence of any forces beyond humanity and nature. Secular humanism upholds the highest value of the individual, affirming the right to happiness, personal development, and the expression of positive human capacities. Most secular humanists identify as atheists and do not observe religious holidays. Importantly, secular humanists do not oppose religion itself; rather, they respect the right to freedom of belief. They demonstrate the validity of their worldview by creating tangible alternatives to religious traditions, beliefs, and cults.

Meaning and Symbolism of HumanLight

HumanLight is a secular celebration centred on the values of reason, compassion, humanity, and hope. The term “light” in the holiday’s name specifically refers to the human intellect and its capacity for rational and critical understanding of the world. A common practice among many humanists during HumanLight is the lighting of candles, which serve as symbols of the core values the holiday promotes. While there are no strict rules governing this ritual, some humanists choose to light blue candles to represent reason, red candles to signify compassion, and yellow or gold candles to embody hope. Overall, HumanLight does not adhere to rigid customs, allowing individuals and communities the freedom to express these values in ways that resonate personally.

Celebration Formats and Organisational Principles

HumanLight celebrations vary widely in scale and style, ranging from modest dinners shared among family and friends to larger events such as charity auctions. Many humanist organisations observe the occasion by exchanging gifts and hosting special activities tailored to the holiday. The HumanLight organising committee advises that events be planned in accordance with three fundamental principles. Firstly, celebrations should promote the positive values inherent in humanism. Secondly, they must avoid any negative remarks or criticisms directed at other belief systems. Lastly, it is important that the events are suitable for families, including children, ensuring an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for all participants.

American Humanist Association

The American Humanist Association is an organisation that unites followers of humanism, agnosticism, atheism, and freethought. It serves as a collective body for individuals who share these philosophical perspectives, fostering a community grounded in secular and rational principles. By bringing together people with these diverse yet related beliefs, the association plays a significant role in supporting and promoting humanist values.