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Backyard Skeptics

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About us

We are a group of scientific skeptics (as opposed to 'conspiracy skeptics') with a heavy emphasis on critical thinking. If you don't believe in paranormal ability, ouija boards or ghosts then this group is for you.

FOUNDED IN 2008, we have many field trips and casual get-togethers just to socialize with other critical thinkers as well, and of course our great pot-luck summer and winter solstice parties.

Our goal: To support the agnostic/athiest/skeptic/humanist community with local meetings, potluck parties, and other social events. To spread the word that scientific skeptics and non-believers that promote secular values and the separation of church and state. We cherish humanistic values over any supernatural superstitions and encourage others to look at their worldview with critical thinking skills.

I hope you join our group and enjoy the conversations we have!

This meetup is a subgroup of Atheists United

Featured event

Reimagining America Summit

Reimagining America Summit

Sat, Jun 20 · 8:30 AM PDT

The Pacific Ridge/Pacific Unitarian Church, 5621 Montemalaga Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, US

TICKETS: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reimagining-america-summit-tickets-1985834720105
What would it mean to truly reimagine America?
Timed to coincide with Juneteenth and the 250th anniversary of July 4th, Reimagining America invites participants to reflect on the nation’s founding promises as well as the ongoing work of true liberty for all.
This gathering brings together leaders, activists, scholars, and community members of all ages for thoughtful conversations about the future of our shared civic life. Through panels on education, local government, reflective activism, and religious pluralism, participants will explore how we can strengthen institutions, deepen participation, and build a more just and inclusive society.
Grounded in honest reflection and creative possibility, the conference is a space to ask bold questions and imagine new paths forward.

Comedian & Actor, Learnmore Jonasi
President of American Atheists, Nick Fish
Mayor of Rancho Palos Verdes, Paul H. Seo
Singer/Songwriter, Shelley Segal
Mayor of Culver City, Freddy Puza
West Hollywood Councilmember, Chelsea Lee Beyers
Political Scientist, Cecelia M. Lynch
USC Senior Associate Dean of Religious Life, Vanessa Gomez Brake
Atheists United Board Member, Jack Kellum
Co-Founder of Chino Valley Defenders of Public Education, Lisa Perlman Greathouse
President of Palos Verdes Faculty Association, Samantha Weiss
Director of Interfaith Youth Alliance, Dr. Jessica Spence Moss

TICKETS AND FULL AGENDA: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reimagining-america-summit-tickets-1985834720105

2 attendees

Upcoming events

14

Sunday Morning Discussion Brunch
Sun, Jun 7 · 11:00 AM PDT
Luna Grill Market Place, 13774 Jamboree Rd, Irvine, CA, US
There’s plenty of parking in front of Luna Grill. If you are yearning for coffee or breakfast foods for our Sunday Brunch Discussion group, you can get some takeout and bring it to Luna Grill to enjoy! This location will give us a fully covered patio to be out of the rain or sun, or if it’s cold, we can move inside to a large table we can share.

COME JOIN US !

This meetup is held the 1st Sunday of every month.

It's a laid back meetup designed to provide a less formal atmosphere and an opportunity to discuss a wide range of topics. Enjoy a casual meal with your fellow free thinkers.

We are a group inclusive of different ideas and perspectives, but we do not tolerate trolls. If your purpose is to simply disrupt the group, you will be asked to leave.

Please update your RSVP if you're unable to make it.

Hope to see you there!
10 attendees
Reimagining America Summit
Sat, Jun 20 · 8:30 AM PDT
The Pacific Ridge/Pacific Unitarian Church, 5621 Montemalaga Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, US
TICKETS: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reimagining-america-summit-tickets-1985834720105
What would it mean to truly reimagine America?
Timed to coincide with Juneteenth and the 250th anniversary of July 4th, Reimagining America invites participants to reflect on the nation’s founding promises as well as the ongoing work of true liberty for all.
This gathering brings together leaders, activists, scholars, and community members of all ages for thoughtful conversations about the future of our shared civic life. Through panels on education, local government, reflective activism, and religious pluralism, participants will explore how we can strengthen institutions, deepen participation, and build a more just and inclusive society.
Grounded in honest reflection and creative possibility, the conference is a space to ask bold questions and imagine new paths forward.
- Comedian & Actor, Learnmore Jonasi
- President of American Atheists, Nick Fish
- Mayor of Rancho Palos Verdes, Paul H. Seo
- Singer/Songwriter, Shelley Segal
- Mayor of Culver City, Freddy Puza
- West Hollywood Councilmember, Chelsea Lee Beyers
- Political Scientist, Cecelia M. Lynch
- USC Senior Associate Dean of Religious Life, Vanessa Gomez Brake
- Atheists United Board Member, Jack Kellum
- Co-Founder of Chino Valley Defenders of Public Education, Lisa Perlman Greathouse
- President of Palos Verdes Faculty Association, Samantha Weiss
- Director of Interfaith Youth Alliance, Dr. Jessica Spence Moss
TICKETS AND FULL AGENDA: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reimagining-america-summit-tickets-1985834720105
2 attendees
Backyard Skeptics Solstice Party!
Mon, Jun 22 · 6:00 PM PDT
Residence, 9782 Santiago Blvd., Villa Park, CA, US
You are welcome to come to our Solstice party on June 22 at 6:00PM.
Although most of our group are atheists and agnostics, everyone - even religious believers, are welcome to explore "the other side".
Bring your thoughts and questions to share. As usual, we will have a short scientific trivia test near the end of the party, which usually ends around 8:30.
We are located in Villa Park at 9782 Santiago Blvd. (look for the property with the big yellow wall out front). You are welcome to bring snacks or drinks for yourself and/or other visitors if you like.
If you have been to our property before, please park on Blueridge street just south of our house and walk in. All newbies can park in the parking area which will be directed by small signs.
Looking forward to a great party with stimulating conversation!
Bruce G.
11 attendees
Sunday Morning Discussion Brunch
Sun, Jul 5 · 11:00 AM PDT
Luna Grill Market Place, 13774 Jamboree Rd, Irvine, CA, US
There’s plenty of parking in front of Luna Grill. If you are yearning for coffee or breakfast foods for our Sunday Brunch Discussion group, you can get some takeout and bring it to Luna Grill to enjoy! This location will give us a fully covered patio to be out of the rain or sun, or if it’s cold, we can move inside to a large table we can share.

COME JOIN US !

This meetup is held the 1st Sunday of every month.

It's a laid back meetup designed to provide a less formal atmosphere and an opportunity to discuss a wide range of topics. Enjoy a casual meal with your fellow free thinkers.

We are a group inclusive of different ideas and perspectives, but we do not tolerate trolls. If your purpose is to simply disrupt the group, you will be asked to leave.

Please update your RSVP if you're unable to make it.

Hope to see you there!
3 attendees

Past events

1441

Organizers

Atheists United 3 and 11 others

Atheists United 3. and 2 others are Super Organizers

Members

1,186

Related topics

Freedom From Religion

Cognitive Science