Human Rights

For better or worse, how we relate to others (and ourselves) is shaped by the world around us. One factor that shapes the way we relate to one another is *power*: Who holds the power, who is perceived to hold power, whether or not power is transferable, and finally, our placement within the hierarchical structures of power we inhabit. Power manifests in many forms — from animal predation, which many consider natural, to inequalities of ability and disability, and those based on race, gender, class, and sexuality. On a personal level, relationships in homes, classrooms, workplaces, public spaces and more can embody power dynamics we don’t always recognize, or which replicate patterns we have inherited from sources external to the relationship itself (family, culture, etc). Common beliefs about power seem full of ambiguity. In some cases, mentioning that power is part of a situation implies unfairness, corruption, or evil intent. At other times, we seek to encourage “empowerment,” to give power to those who have been oppressed, or to liberate people by helping them attain more power. At our upcoming Curiosity Café, moderated by Sophia Whicher and Bill Kroeger, we will talk about how power functions in our everyday lives and in society more broadly, and interrogate the relationship between power and inequality. We’ll explore questions like: * How does power influence the dynamics of our everyday lives? * How do different kinds of power influence different kinds of relationships? * What does power mean to you, and how does it connect to inequality? Is inequality an inherent part of human existence? * Is scapegoating a necessary part of how social hierarchies function? * Is power in itself good, bad, or neutral? * Which power dynamics do you find problematic? When, if at all, do you think power is something we should use? **Space is limited!** **Please obtain a “Pay-What-You-Can” ticket from Curiosity Café at [this link (click here)](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/curiosity-cafe-power-in-social-relations-tickets-1991414959752) to attend this event. You need a ticket to be admitted.** See the above link for more info about tickets and other options including a limited number of free tickets. Come and hang out with us, grab food, and read through our handout from 6-6:30pm. Our structured discussion will run from 6:30-8:30pm with a 10 minute break in the middle. Hope to see you there! ***__________________________________________________________________*** This event is brought to you by [Being and Becoming](https://beingnbecoming.org/), a Toronto based non-profit. We aim to create community around exploring everyday concepts and experiences so that we may live more intentional, thoughtful, and meaningful lives. We use philosophy as a tool with which we can come to a richer understanding of the world around us. By offering activities, spaces, and other opportunities for conversation and co-exploration, we hope to enable the meeting and fusion of individuals and their ideas. Everyone is welcome, regardless of background: indeed, we believe the journey is best undertaken alongside explorers from a variety of disciplines, cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. Find out more about Being and Becoming [here](https://beingnbecoming.org/). About the Curiosity Café Series: For those of you who haven’t had the opportunity to join us at our Curiosity Cafés and are wondering what they’re all about: every two weeks, we invite members of our community to come out to the Madison Avenue Pub to engage in a collaborative exploration of our chosen topic. Through these events, we aim to build our community of people who like to think deeply about life’s big questions, and provide each other with some philosophical tools to dig deeper into whatever it is we are most curious about.

**When:** Tuesdays, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Winter/Spring 2026 **Where:** 792 Glencairn Ave., Toronto, ON **Attend online via Zoom:** https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89671983431?pwd=hoYVrQG1EF4ibvIieyTnavmXxWcy5h.1 **Main Text:** [Deity, Cosmos and Man](https://www.theosophy.world/sites/default/files/ebooks/DeityCosmosAndMan_GFarthing.pdf) by Geoffrey Farthing If the above link is broken, paste this into bar for free PDF: https://www.theosophy.world/sites/default/files/ebooks/DeityCosmosAndMan_GFarthing.pdf This third part of our **Intro to Theosophy** series turns to *Deity, Cosmos and Man* by Geoffrey Farthing, a clear and reliable guide to the foundational teachings of Theosophy as originally presented by **Helena Petrovna Blavatsky** and her Adept teachers. This study explores a living, intelligent universe governed by unity, law, and vast evolutionary cycles, and examines how the human being reflects these same cosmic principles within their own inner constitution. Emphasis is placed on Theosophy not as a belief system, but as a coherent body of knowledge—offering insight into consciousness, post-death states, hierarchies of beings, and the deeper purpose of human evolution. Alongside discussion and reflection, the group will explore guided experiential exercises designed to support awareness, perception, and integration. The intention is to: * Develop a clear understanding of core Theosophical principles * Explore the relationship between cosmos, consciousness, and the human constitution * Encourage experiential insight alongside study and dialogue * Support inner balance, discernment, and conscious self-development This class is suitable for: * Students continuing from Parts 1 and 2 of the Intro to Theosophy series * Those interested in Theosophy, cosmology, and human evolution * Participants seeking a grounded, psychologically oriented approach to spiritual study * Anyone curious about consciousness, meditation, and the deeper structure of reality No prior experience with Theosophy, yoga, or meditation is required—only curiosity, openness, and a willingness to explore thoughtfully.

**Holy Smoke: S’mores & More** Ignite! Young Adult Ministry (ages 18–39) **Tuesday\, June 16 \| 7:00–9:00 PM** **St. Patrick’s Rectory Garden** *(enter off St. Patrick Street)* Join us for Holy Smoke: S’mores & More, a summer BBQ and bonfire right in the heart of the city. Gather around the fire for delicious make-your-own s’mores, food, and fellowship with other young adults. Admission is free – donations welcome. Register and get your ticket HERE: [https://bit.ly/IgniteBBQ-June16](https://bit.ly/IgniteBBQ-June16) Bring a friend and join us for a meaningful, joy-filled summer evening! (Kindly register to help us plan for the number of attendees.) Hosted by St. Patrick’s Ignite Young Adult Ministry

https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/5/8/b/f/600_466702719.jpeg Be part of a supportive community of regular people looking to improve their wellness, shed a few pounds and have some fun! Come to our introductory class and learn about our effective and informative 5 week program! Lose up to 10 lbs** in 5 weeks and have the opportunity to win prizes for losing weight! Best of all; learn how to keep the weight off! • Weekly Nutrition Class • Weekly Weigh-in • Personal Wellness Coach to help you! • Support and Motivation • Learn how to keep the weight off! ** As part of a healthy lifestyle you can generally expect to lose around half a pound to 1 pound per week!

Practice and improve your English through conversation at St. Andrew Centre (73 Simcoe St, downtown Toronto), while making new friends! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- How to Get to the Event: By TTC, exit at St. Andrew Station. Walk west on King St. West to Simcoe St. Do not enter through the church building; the large church front doors will be closed. At the corner of Simcoe St. and King St. West, turn south and walk on Simcoe St. Enter through St. Andrew Centre, which will be behind the church building.

Lose 10lbs in 5 WEEKS and Win Prizes ! Topics will include Metabolism, Carbohydrate addiction, digestive health, label reading, dining out, heart health and many more. $ 50 to Join the Challenge includes: - Weekly Weigh In, Accountability and Motivation - 40 Min nutrition class - Voucher for 'Healthy Meal' - Personalized Meal Plan - Lose 1 - 3lbs a week. To register for your spot: www.ShapingUpCanada.com

Is there a better way to start the summer than with new friends? We think not. This month, we’re trying something new: PyLadies Toronto is organizing a low-key board game social at Chef’s Hall to help you connect with your fellow PyLadies in a chill, no-pressure environment. No need to perform or prove your technical chops - just come as your authentic self to play some board games, meet your fellow PyLadies, and have some fun! We'll have some light snacks for the table, vegetarian and gluten-free. Thanks to Black Python Devs for sponsoring! If you have any dietary restrictions beyond that, let us know, and we'll accommodate. See you there!

✨ **Peace Starts With Me Afternoon – World Cup Edition** ✨ **Join us for a relaxed and meaningful afternoon with a World Cup–themed event!** 🗓️ **Date:** Saturday, June 20th, 2026 🕒 **Time:** 3:00 PM\~ 📍 **Location:** 215 Mavety St 💰 **Fee:** $5 **🌟 What’s included:** 🍽️**Finger Food & Snacks** A global-themed snack table to enjoy together! 🕊️ **Peace Sharing** A friendly time to share thoughts and connect in a cozy atmosphere. 🏆 **Fun Mini Games** World Cup–inspired team games with a small prize for the winners! Come hang out, get creative, eat good food, and start 2026 with good energy and good people ✨ Bring friends or come solo — everyone is welcome! **To confirm your spot and help us prepare materials, please fill out this short registration form:**[https://forms.gle/DpEw1WM3arZg5M6JA](https://forms.gle/s3KKCmvMmigbKTB38)

This is a ticketed event. You can register [here](https://luma.com/trajec-cte5). ​ ​In this talk, Giles Edkins looks at some experiments that shed light onto the theory of AI consciousness and welfare. We'll cover how LLMs are different from us and what we can learn about how they process information - with a few philosophical takes thrown in. ​You can watch a livestream of the talk [here](https://www.youtube.com/@Trajectory-Labs/live?utm_source=luma).

Hey football fans! ⚽️ Ready for some World Cup action? Whether you're a die-hard supporter wearing your team's jersey or just in it for the incredible atmosphere (and the snacks), come join us to watch the game on the big screen! We’re gathering to cheer and celebrate every goal together with a great crowd and awesome vibes. Don't watch it alone at home—grab a snack, bring your high energy, and let's enjoy the beautiful game together. See you there! 🙌🏆

As I looked under CFI’s Mission, Vision, and Values, the phrase ‘**community**’ stood out in the opening line. Then, I found it repeated seven more times, all within a short description. Elsewhere, CFI informs us we run ‘open’ and ‘friendly’ discussions in ‘safe and hospitable’ environments for everyone. And 'Critical Thinking' is, you might say, the backbone for starting any discussion. But while we all know what thinking is, how is **critical thinking** different? Especially in matters that are not quantitatively measurable? As humans, thankfully, we are born curious – we probably won’t have learnt to crawl on four to experience our body and the world around us. We all are capable of being forever-curious – and therefore seeing through the evidence methodically. That is a good start for any talk no matter how complex it may seem. If it’s a human problem, we may not solve it, but surely can think through it critically. That’s a big, and hopeful, first step! Tantalizing? Let’s Talk!

*USA Today* National Bestseller. There's a war against truth... and if we don't win it, intellectual freedom will be a casualty. The West’s commitment to freedom, reason, and true liberalism has never been more seriously threatened than it is today by the stifling forces of political correctness. Dr. Gad Saad, the host of the enormously popular YouTube show THE SAAD TRUTH, exposes the bad ideas—what he calls “idea pathogens”—that are killing common sense and rational debate. Incubated in our universities and spread through the tyranny of political correctness, these ideas are endangering our most basic freedoms—including freedom of thought and speech. The danger is grave, but as Dr. Saad shows, politically correct dogma is riddled with logical fallacies. We have powerful weapons to fight back with—if we have the courage to use them. A provocative guide to defending reason and intellectual freedom and a battle cry for the preservation of our fundamental rights, *The Parasitic Mind* will be the most controversial and talked-about book of the year. ═════ Discussion questions: TBD Facilitator: Andrii ═════ $$ Refundable deposit: We'd like to make sure everyone on the RSVP actually intends to join us and enjoy the event. Please make a **refundable** deposit of $5 to hold your spot, via Paypal or Interac e-transfer to [toronto.nonfiction@gmail.com](mailto:toronto.nonfiction@gmail.com), when you RSVP or shortly thereafter. If you are waitlisted please wait until a spot opens up for you before making a transfer. You'll get your $5 back in cash if you join us at the event. If you decide to drop out later or not attend, consider this a donation to support our meetup and zoom subscriptions, which aren't cheap. Thank you! ═════ Meeting format: * We meet to discuss the book after having read it beforehand. * A facilitator guides the discussion ensuring that everyone has a chance to speak, one person at a time. * Warning: Participation in a book club is a dangerous activity. You may encounter opinions different from yours. By joining the group you agree to assume all risks.

Join us at Crafthouse in Reston Town Center for Libertarian Happy Hour! Connect with fellow Libertarians in Northern Virginia and the wider DC area for good conversation, drinks, and food! We will have a reserved table at Crafthouse. Look for the LPNOVA sign. The Libertarian Party of Northern Virginia is your local affiliate of the national Libertarian Party. Since 1971, the Libertarian Party has been fighting for personal freedom, economic freedom, and peaceful foreign policy. We run candidates for office, advocate for liberty in our community through our presence at local fairs and festivals, and connect fellow DC area libertarians through events like these.

**From Tolerance to True Unity** *** Is tolerance enough? Or can it sometimes just be prejudice in disguise? Or even hate? In an increasingly divided society, does simply “tolerating” others sometimes inadvertently separate us all into “us” and “them” categories in our minds (and hearts!), only serving to further reinforce those divisions? How can spirituality and the dual concepts of the “Oneness of Mankind” and “Unity in Diversity” help us to see past our differences and regard all – whether family, friend, or stranger – as one of “us” and part of our own shared story? How can we see our differences not as something to be merely tolerated but rather as a source of strength for our communities? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the truths that unite us all – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on the role of love for all of humanity in moving beyond tolerance. Join us for a lively discussion as we explore how a spiritual foundation can enable us to work together for the betterment of ourselves, our families, our communities and our world. *“Do not be content with showing friendship in words alone, let your heart burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path.”* – Bahá’í Teachings \*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.

Join us for a special edition of **Discussions for a Better World**—an uplifting, music‑infused gathering featuring rapper, educator, and community‑builder **[Colby Jeffers](https://www.colbyjeffers.com/)**[.](https://www.colbyjeffers.com/) Colby’s work blends **hip‑hop, storytelling, and spiritual principles** to spark conversations about unity, justice, purpose, and the shared responsibility we all carry in building a better world. His songs and writings explore what it means to rise above division, see the nobility in one another, and turn our daily actions into contributions to humanity. In commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, come and explore how we can unite as a people to build a better future! https://www.colbyjeffers.com/ Doors open at 7:00 pm. Complimentary snacks and refreshments will be provided. Plenty of free parking.

**What's on Your Spiritual Bucket List** *** So many of us have a bucket list of things we hope to do or achieve before we “kick the bucket”! But do we also need to consider creating a *spiritual* bucket list – not just a list of things we want to *do*, but of things we want to *be*? And do we wait to one day just become these things, or are these things we can – and should we – be working on right now, day by day? What makes a bucket list meaningful is that it be a reflection of what you value and desire – a tool to help push ourselves to grow and develop and fulfill our highest aspirations. Things like skydiving, traveling, running a marathon, and buying a house are common to-do’s helping us achieve our material aspirations. But what about considering our ultimate to-do’s to fulfill our spiritual purpose? What if we aspired to grow spiritually, to be kinder and more virtuous people, to help others in need? Do we need to wait for some future time to do these things, or can we actually draw closer every day to achieving these goals through our daily choices and spiritual habits? What would it look like to live a life designed around reaching these spiritual goals and reaching our true, spiritual purpose? How can we support each other in checking off our spiritual bucket lists? Come join a different kind of conversation – one that welcomes every perspective in a search for the deeper truths that unite us – as we discuss the spiritual perspective offered by the Bahá’í Teachings on fulfilling our spiritual purpose. Please join us for a lively discussion as we explore how we can each live a life of spiritual growth and fulfillment and create communities that support each and every one of us. “*Material progress insures the happiness of the human world. Spiritual progress insures the happiness and eternal continuance of the soul.*” – Bahá’í Teachings \*\*\* This event is free and open to all regardless of background or belief. Donations will not be accepted.

America was founded on ideals such as freedom, equality, and justice—but what does it take to fully realize those ideals today? In this first discussion, we will explore Section I of *A Common Endeavor: Realizing the Promise of America*. Together, we will reflect on the nation's highest aspirations, the challenges posed by division and polarization, and the role that moral and spiritual principles can play in shaping a more just and united society. The discussion will consider questions such as: • What is the "promise of America"? • Why do so many people feel discouraged about the current state of society? • What role do values such as trustworthiness, integrity, courage, generosity, and love play in social progress? • How can we move beyond division while honoring our diverse experiences and perspectives? This gathering is intended to be a space for thoughtful reflection, respectful dialogue, and mutual learning. All viewpoints are welcome. **Suggested Reading:** [Section I](https://www.acommonendeavor.org/) https://www.acommonendeavor.org/

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** **This dinner in particular will be very special as we celebrate America's 250th birthday. How better to honor a semiquincentennial of democracy that spending an evening practicing it?** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good conversation and deeper community, join us for a Community Dinner in Reston and help blaze the trail to a healthier, more connected society and democracy. Here’s how it works: For just two hours, multiple tables of people set aside the need to "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by experienced table hosts, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. **At this dinner, participants will get to choose between three different topics, including some current events.** Topics range from the political, to the "slice of life", to the spiritual, to the philosophical, to the off-the-wall - but no matter which table you choose to sit at, you can be sure it'll be like no dinner conversation you've had before! You can also **suggest a topic** by emailing us at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com. Food will be provided for free. For those who wish to provide a donation to help fund BreadBreakers, you can [give here](https://pushpay.com/g/restorationrestonumc?fnd=pO6G-N7oO7FH7Mp1u-x6mA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl) or at the event. We'll have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have any additional dietary restrictions (Celiac Disease, vegan, etc.) please let us know at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com so that we can implement the appropriate food handling procedures. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of talking with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by [Restoration United Methodist Church](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers) in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community. We are a collaboration between people of all faiths and stripes. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

Across the country, people from diverse backgrounds are working together to strengthen their neighborhoods, empower youth, support families, and create environments where everyone can contribute. In this session, we will explore Section II of *A Common Endeavor: Realizing the Promise of America*, which highlights examples of grassroots efforts that are fostering unity, service, and community transformation. Together, we will discuss: • What characteristics make communities resilient and inclusive? • How can ordinary people become agents of positive change? • What can we learn from successful community-building efforts? • How do service, friendship, and collaboration contribute to social progress? Whether you are involved in community service, civic engagement, education, faith-based activities, or simply care about the well-being of your community, your insights are welcome. **Suggested Reading:** [Section II](https://www.acommonendeavor.org/) https://www.acommonendeavor.org/