Einstein's activism

Einstein's activism against lynching apparently takes up 20 pages of his FBI "Treason File #61". There's nothing treasonous in it.

Einstein's FBI file is available on the FBI website.

Its implications are discussed in the newly updated _The Einstein File: The FBI's Secret War Against the World's Most Famous Scientist_ by Fred Jerome. I went to the book launch tonight.

Apparently, Einstein didn't just sign a letter. He actively co-chaired an anti-lynching organization, in shock and anger at the wave of lynchings in 1946 after black soldiers returned from World War II. His co-chair was noted singer and activist Paul Robeson, who was also a friend. When a singer was not allowed to stay in a local hotel --solely due to her race--- Einstein let her stay at his house. In her memoir, she recalled him fondly.

Einstein was also active ---beyond writing--- on other issues. Free speech and nuclear weapons are still debated today. But on anti-semitism and race, Einstein's opinions, while radical in their day, are common sense now.

I like knowing this side of Einstein. For me, it humanizes him.

Why "Humanist Chick"?

Why Humanist Chick?

Hi and welcome. "Humanist" reminds me of the values of compassion for different types of people and the beauty of nature. (Mothers in every place love their children, and poets in all languages muse on the stars). I chose "chick" because it reflects my sense of whimsy. I imagine posting on diverse topics on "Humanist Chick": books, Houdini, nature, philosophy, silliness & socio-economics (the latter sometimes separate:)