Schedule
Saturday
The doors to our Fundraising Reception (a separate, ticketed event) open at 6:30 PM and the program starts at 7 PM.
Sunday
Our main event is at the California State Capitol Building on the West Steps.
All times are subject to change.
The livestream of the event will start a few minutes before 12:00 noon. Links to the livestream will be sent to all registered guests prior to the event.
10:45 AM
Capitol Park Tour
If you've signed up for the free Capitol Park Tour, meet at our stage (West Steps) to gather with the others. At 10:50 AM, we'll walk you to the tour starting point.
11:00 AM
Exhibitor Tables and Early Registration
Arrive early and visit our sponsors, community groups, and other non-profit organizations.
Visit the Registration table to check-in and receive your free color program and any goodies you've paid for like a snack, button, t-shirt, or signed poster.
12:00 Noon
Trace Dominguez
Emcee's Welcome
Host of Star Gazers, Trace will welcome our attendees and introduce everyone to the stage throughout the afternoon.
12:10 PM
David Diskin
Opening Remarks
Our committee president will say a few words about this year's theme.
12:15 PM
Presentation to Sen. Nancy Skinner
CA Senator from District 9
We'll be recognizing Nancy for her history of activism and policy in criminal justice, income equality, environmental preservation, and healthcare access (including gender-affirming care).
The Senator regrets that she will not be able to join us.
12:20 PM
Dr. Darrel Ray
Author, President of Recovering from Religion
Darrel is the founder and president of Recovering from Religion and a psychologist for over forty years. With a Doctorate in Psychology, he will speak on the science behind religious trauma.
12:55 PM
Break
Vist with our exhibitors or take a stroll around the park. Don't forget to visit our Freethinker Gallery and, if you're a Supporter, grab a snack and drink.
1:10 PM
Authors' and Podcasters' Panel
Moderated by Thomas Smith, our panel is a great way to learn about some new authors and podcasters or have your questions answered. Learn more.
1:50 PM
Scholarship Winners
Our winning students will be invited to take the stage and read their work. Learn more.
2:00 PM
To Be Announced
2:30 PM
Break
Say hello to Uncle Sam and try out a little juggling or stop by a few of our sponsor's tables during this extended break.
2:45 PM
Abraham "Steve" Mackey
Musician
Steve does what he loves doing most by entertaining audiences with his singing voice, guitar playing, and sharing of stories and classic hits from the rich history of 1960’s and 70’s rock and roll.
3:15 PM
Community Panel
Join us as we give the stage to a handful of local, regional, and national non-profit organizations so they can teach tell you about their important work.
3:25 PM
Community Awards
We'll recognize Ryan Bell for his statewide advocacy towards tenant rights, housing justice, and social justice while demonstrating the values of secular humanism.
3:35 PM
Break
This is the last break before we draw door prize winners, so complete your survey (found in the program) and turn it in at the registration table.
3:50 PM
Group Photo
Grab your banners and signs and gather up for our annual group photo.
3:55 PM
Jen Young and Science Alliance
Science Educators
Jen inpsires and educates young minds through hands-on learning that they will never forget after founding Science Alliance in 2020. With a BA in Education and a minor in Chemistry, Jen has worked with the National Institute of Science Education (NISE) to create STEM kits for over 2000 organizations.
4:30 PM
Freethought Day Committee
After introducing those who make the day possible, our committee will:
- select our door prize winners
- year's inductees to our Freethinker Gallery
- recognize those we've lost in memoriam
4:45 PM
Dr. Candace Lawson
Family Physician
Candace, after completing her family medicine residency at UC Davis, devoted her career to teaching medical residents and working with Sacramento's underserved population.
5:15 PM
Nancy Gonzalez
Poet, Activist, and Educator
Nancy is the inaugural poet laureate of Lodi (2023) whose poetry has appeared in Huizache: The Magazine of Latino Literature, Poetry of Resistance, and more. several other literary journals. For over 20 years, Nancy has also been an elementary school teacher.
5:25 PM
Closing Words
Trace and David will return to the stage to close out the event.