Do It While ya Scared: Do Not Obey In Advance

Leaning into moments of discomfort are never easy. It requires a tender tenacity. How do we seize opportunities to speak the truth to power, when speaking, living or/and being in our truth may cost us our lives? When the odds are stacked against us and our values, we hold so dear. bell hooks remind us to stare back as an act of resistance and alter socio-political expectations.

Rev. Dr. Jé Exodus Hooper, PhD (they/them), serves as executive clergy Leader of the Ethical Society of St. Louis. An American Ethical Union-certified Ethical Culture Leader, arts and cultural community curator, and public theologian, Dr. Hooper has served Ethical Societies, Unitarian Universalist congregations, and other congregational Humanist communities across the country.

Dr. Jé describes their practice of Humanism as “neo-mannerism,” grounded in the conviction that “aesthetic and ethics are one.” Their work embraces joyful resistance, courageous inquiry, and the creative discomfort that can lead to growth. Drawing inspiration from James Baldwin’s call to “take off the mask,” they invite people to live with courage, curiosity, and greater openness to one another’s humanity.

Their work explores race, art, organizational development, polyamory, trans and nonbinary identities, and the possibility of building more authentic, liberating communities.

This Platform will feature music from The Ethical Band, the house band at the Ethical Society of St. Louis. It is composed of and led by members who are musicians of all kinds, ages, and skill levels. Whether you are a trained player, beginner, or just want to shake a tambourine, The Ethical Band is a great way to both dip your toes into performing and become more involved in our Humanist community.