“By being open about my nonreligious identity, I hope to normalize the idea that ethical leadership can come from diverse sources, whether religious or secular.”
Representing the 2nd Ward of the City of Wyoming, Michigan.
“My values are rooted in doing what is right because that is how we should care for our fellow humans, not because I’m afraid of what may or may not happen in some sort of afterlife, or to please a higher power.”
“Our ‘North Star’ for all decisions is, ‘what is best for our students?'”
“Although I know that a lot of my colleagues consult their religion when they look at policy, that just does not come up for me. Instead, my priorities are based in compassion and sustainability…”
"I highlighted the importance of secular governance and the need to protect the separation of church and state."
“Being open about myself and my experiences shows people that their secular government has secular members who will prioritize the needs of the people.”
“When I stand up as a secular person, I can use my privilege to highlight the fact that there are MANY voices at the table.”
"Everyone should have a home, and everyone should have a voice in our democracy."
“As a humanist, decreasing human suffering—and indeed by extension all suffering—is my primary motivator.”
