Support Group for Refugee Freethinkers
Are you a refugee freethinker who had to hide your beliefs for a long time, even in the Netherlands? If so, you can join a support group organized by Humanistisch Verbond (Dutch Humanist Association).
Have you had to live under the radar as a non-believer for a long time, for example as an ex-Muslim?
Was open discussion about your worldview often only possible in private online forums?
Do you regularly feel compelled to hide your beliefs from your family, acquaintances, or even in Dutch asylum seeker centers?
If so, our support groups are for you.
What is a support group?
The support groups for refugee freethinkers – including former believers, non-believers or apostates – offer a place to meet like-minded people. There, you can speak freely, without religious pressure, about philosophical topics and about everything involved in building a new life in the Netherlands.
Regular meetings with a consistent group of people provide stability, inspiration, and courage by sharing experiences. The social aspect of gathering together and sharing a meal also helps you clear your mind and find distraction.
How does it work?
Each group has two facilitators: a volunteer with a professional background (for example, a humanist chaplain, psychologist, or social worker) and a regular volunteer. Together, they provide a safe space for meeting, exchange, and deeper reflection – often accompanied by a shared meal.
During the meetings, inspiring themes take center stage, such as freedom, friendship, hope, democracy, differences between the Netherlands and the country of origin, loneliness, parenting, tolerance, gender roles, human rights, and dreams. In this way, there is room for both deeper understanding and genuine connection.
More information
Do you have any questions? Would you like to participate in a support group? Please get in touch via [email protected].
Freedom of Thought
Humanistisch Verbond stands for freedom of thought. In other words: your thoughts are free. Whatever your background or origin, every person has the right to freely choose their own worldview.
We offer former believers a safe place to connect and talk with others who share similar experiences. We stand up for the rights of freethinkers and non-believers worldwide. And we encourage you to think freely too!
Stories of other Refugee Freethinkers
For many refugee freethinkers, arriving in the Netherlands does not automatically mean freedom. Within the support group of Humanistisch Verbond, they are able to speak openly and find support in one another.
A list of posts
True to yourself, connected to others
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