About Us
A Diverse and Inclusive Community
Our curriculum appeals to student diversity and interest, and is rigorous and challenging. We understand each child comes to us with different talents, learning styles, and identities. And we celebrate that difference because our diversity is our strength.
Community is everything at Corlears. It’s who we are and how things get done. Everyone here is motivated by a deep commitment to making sure each child and family feels welcome and included. When everyone feels like they belong, we are stronger and smarter together. We’re a community driven to make the world a better place—starting in our own backyard.
Our Story
In 1876, Dr. Felix Adler founded the Ethical Culture Society in New York City as a new movement to further the advancement of social justice for all. This Humanist movement focuses on human goodness and building ethical relationships with each other and the Earth. As part of a non-theistic movement, Ethical Humanists do not concern themselves with the existence or non-existence of a deity, but instead embrace the diversity of fellow humans.
The Ethical Culture Society of Los Angeles (ECSLA) was founded in 1945 by Dr. Arthur Briggs, a leader in the American Ethical Union. It evolved in several stages with several leaders. The most current Leader was Dr. Gerald A. Larue, Professor Emeritus of Biblical History and Archaeology at the University of Southern California, Adjunct Professor of Gerontology at U.S.C., and Chairman of the Committee for the Scientific Examination of Religion at the Center for Inquiry. Larue was also recognized as the 1989 Humanist of the Year by the American Humanist Association.
Citing dwindling membership and the lack of leadership succession, ECSLA was disbanded in 2007. We aspire to re-ignite interest in a new Ethical Humanist Society of Los Angeles, serving serving as an inspirational force for Angelenos in a new digital age.
The Ethical Culture/Ethical Humanist Movement
beliefs that unite us
Our community makes us unique. They have an energy that reverberates around them. Their mission in life is to ensure the wonder in the world is not overlooked.
- We recognize the unique worth and dignity of all people regardless of their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, sexual identity, economic status, level of ability, or religious beliefs.
- We advocate for reason, compassion, and rational thinking so we can progress as individuals, as communities, and as world.
- We act to elicit the best in others and thereby in ourselves, celebrating with and supporting each other through life.
- We realize the full capacity of our human spirit when we stimulate our thinking with new insights and inspirations.
- We are recognized as a religious movement because for us the ethical quest has the depth of a religious commitment, and because we recognize the value of a community of support, celebration, and action.
- We train future humanist leaders to promote responsible and ethical living.
Our Core Values
Learn more about our values and our story as an Ethical Humanist Society by visiting the about us page.
What is the Ethical Humanist Society of Los Angeles?
We are welcoming, progressive, and Humanist community dedicated to ethical discussion, service, and personal growth. Our mission is to ensure a home for current and future Ethical Humanists in Los Angeles, and serve the greater community with compassion.
What do we believe?
We believe in you!
What can I expect when I visit?
You’ll find a warm and friendly atmosphere, uplifting discussions, and a message that speaks to your everyday life. Whether you’re new or not to Ethical Humanism, you are welcome here just as you are.
How can I get involved?
There are many ways to get involved, from joining a small group to volunteering in our outreach. Whether you have a heart for serving others, a passion for music, or a desire to grow in ethical understanding, we have a place for you!
How can I connect with the Society?
We would love to connect with you! You can visit us in person and also follow us on social media to stay updated on events and Platforms.
Join us
Our community makes us unique. They have an energy that reverberates around them. Their mission in life is to ensure the wonder in the world is not overlooked.
