About FSGP

The Freethought Society of Greater Philadelphia (FSGP) was founded in 1993 by Margaret Downey. Today, FSGP's community outreach efforts have changed the hearts and minds of many citizens who never met or talked to an atheist. FSGP sponsors activities, events and speakers to educate the public about the nontheist life stance. FSGP's efforts to keep religion out of government and government out of religion ensure Constitutional protection for theist and nontheist citizens alike.

What does FSGP advocate?

We advocate reason, rationalism, freethought and humanism. To this end, FSGP provides forums in which freethinkers can gather for informational and educational meetings, and for fun events and social networking with like-minded individuals.

Why Join?

A membership with FSGP is an investment in the nontheist movement. We look forward to continuing to providing educational programs, social events, outreach and advocacy for freethinkers in the Delaware Valley region, but we can't do it without support from individuals like you.

Monthly Program Meetings

To better meet the needs of our members, FSGP has recently begun to vary meeting days, times and locations. Check our web site for the most up-to-date information on monthly program meeting speakers and topics.

Monthly meetings are a great way to introduce yourself and make new friends. After the meeting a group often goes to a local restaurant to socialize and discuss ideas raised by the speaker.

 

Thomas Paine Foundation

 

The Thomas Paine Foundation (TPF) began as a separate organization, created by Margaret Downey, which was then adopted by the Freethought Society of Greater Philadelphia (FSGP) as a standing committee.

 

Through TPF, FSGP conducts educational and entertaining programs promoting the ideals of Thomas Paine and freethought philosophy. The TPF has received local, national and international recognition.

 

Thomas Paine-A Brief History
Thomas Paine arrived in America in 1774 at the request of Benjamin Franklin. On January 10, 1776, Paine published Common Sense, a remarkable and powerful republican pamphlet, which proved an immediate success.

 

Paine served in the Revolutionary War under General Greene, and later in official congressionally-appointed positions and the Pennsylvania legislature. In his later publication, Age of Reason, Paine expressed that "all religions are in their nature mild and benign" when not associated with political systems; Paine was the quintessential Deist of the 18th century.

 

Between March 1791 and February 1792 Paine published numerous editions of Rights of Man, in which he defended the French Revolution. The words of Thomas Paine inspired many to strive for political, economic and social advancement. He was among the first to call for an end to slavery and the establishment of human rights around the world.

 

In Honor of Thomas Paine

In appreciation, TPF celebrates the birthday of Thomas Paine on January 29th, as well as a Thomas Paine Day proclamation on June 8 and other Paine-themed events during the year. The TPF is a participant in the beautification project for the Thomas Paine National Historical Museum, located at what was once Paine’s farm in New Rochelle, NY.

 

Thomas Paine Educational Assemblies

Five Thomas Paine assemblies have been presented at elementary schools throughout the Delaware Valley region. Assemblies have also taken place in New Jersey and California.

 

If you are a teacher or school administrator, you may apply for a Thomas Paine Assembly Grant.

 

Tax-Deductible Contributions

Donations towards the production costs and supplies needed for these assemblies can be made online at http://www.fsgp.org/donate/; just note your earmark for either Paine Assemblies or the TPF in general in the message field at the PayPal payment page. All donors will receive a receipt. FSGP is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) educational, charitable organization*.

 

 


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You may hire the TPF to conduct an assembly at your school. Simply contact Margaret Downey, TPF Director at:

610-793-2737 office

610-793-2561 fax

E-mail: Downey1 (at) downey1 (dot) cnc (dot) net

 

 

 

*The official registration and financial information of the Freethought Society of Greater Philadelphia may be obtained from the PA Department of State by calling toll-free, within PA, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.