What we’re about
We are a friendly group focused on ethical living, community connection, and bringing out the best in people. We explore together what it means to live ethically as individuals, in relationships, and in the larger world. Ethical Culture was founded in 1876 as an alternative to traditional religion. The focus is on human lives and relationships, rather than theology and ritual. Our core belief is in the inherent worth and dignity of each individual. Moved by what we see in the surrounding community, we collaborate to deliver meals and supplies to the Grace Solutions shelter for unhoused individuals in San Jose. We are a listening, caring, mutually supportive, and fun-loving fellowship. Learn more at our website, and pick an event here on our Meetup page to give us a try. Welcome!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Stand for the Freedom to Read: Join Us in Making Care Packages for LibrariansNeutra House Conference Center, Los Altos, CA
California has made important strides in protecting access to diverse ideas. In 2024, Governor Newsom signed the California Freedom to Read Act, which prohibits public libraries from banning books based on race, gender identity, or sexual orientation. It also requires libraries to adopt transparent, written collection-development policies. But not every community is so fortunate.
Across the country, many libraries are under increasing pressure to remove or restrict access to books. In fact, the American Library Association reported that thousands of unique book titles have been challenged each year since 2021, at least 9 times more than the previous-decade average.
As concerned citizens, we know that access to information is central to living an ethical and informed life. So, as Banned Books Week approaches, we’re taking a special kind of action that reflects Ethical Culture’s emphasis on relationships. Join us on Saturday, September 27th, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., for a service project in support of librarians and libraries facing censorship across the U.S.
Focusing on libraries and librarians who are the target of disinformation campaigns as revealed by EveryLibrary.org – a leading organization defending the right to read – we’ll be assembling care packages and letters of encouragement for librarians on the front lines. Together, we’ll write personal notes of support, create bookmarks as small tokens of our solidarity, and build meaningful connections with those protecting intellectual freedom in their communities. There's no need to bring anything – supplies will be provided.
This is more than just a volunteer event – it’s a chance to take a stand for open dialogue, diverse voices, and the right to explore ideas freely. We hope you’ll join us. Your words – and your presence – will make a difference.
For more information about our friendly group, Ethical Culture Society of Silicon Valley, visit our website at: ecssv.org (http://ecssv.org/) and see our other events on Meetup ([https://www.meetup.com/Ethical-Culture-Society-of-Silicon-Valley/)](https://www.meetup.com/Ethical-Culture-Society-of-Silicon-Valley/))
- How a Hydra Learns to Speak with One Voice -- Spotlight with Curt CollierNeutra House , Los Altos, CA
Progressives find it hard to unite behind a single message—often resulting in fragmented, less effective movements. But unity isn’t just a lofty ideal; it's both possible and essential. Clear, universal messages have the power to bring cohesion and amplify impact, and to draw in partners you didn’t think were possible. Join activist Curt Collier in determining how to build effective, diverse coalitions.
This interactive gathering, led by Ethical Culture Leader Curt Collier, is part of our monthly 'Spotlight' series, where speakers encourage us to broaden our ethical outlook on the world. We mix in a little live music, light refreshment, and community sharing. The program runs from 11 AM to 12:30 PM, and all are encouraged to stay and mingle on the patio till 1:00 PM.
For more information about Ethical Culture Society of Silicon Valley, visit our website at: ecssv.org (http://ecssv.org/) and see our other events on Meetup (https://www.meetup.com/Ethical-Culture-Society-of-Silicon-Valley/))
