Apostasy in the UK, with Imtiaz Shams and Andrew Copson | Humanists UK In Conversation With...

Imtiaz Shams is a tech entrepreneur, human rights activist and the co-founder of Faith To Faithless, an advocacy group for so-called 'apostates', leaving high-control religions or cults. Imtiaz used his experience to help apostates who suffer when they leave conservative religions. In 2012, he began creating ‘underground railroad’ networks for Ex-Muslims around the world. He has been featured on the BBC, 'Vice', the 'Guardian', and 'The Times'. In 2017 he was the first Ex-Muslim ever to speak at an Islamic Conference, as he believes religious organisations are important in the fight to tackle apostate discrimination. He is also a trustee of Humanists UK.

Faith to Faithless is Humanists UK’s support programme for so-called ‘apostates’ and those who leave high-control religions. The service is led by apostates themselves, who have knowledge and experiences of apostate communities facing serious and systemic issues. Faith to Faithless supports people who have left many religions including ex-Evangelical Christians, ex-Ultra-Orthodox Jews, Ex-Muslims, ex-Jehovah’s Witnesses, and others.

In this new 'In Conversation With...' series, Humanists UK Chief Executive Andrew Copson hosts unscripted, one-on-one discussions over the course of 60 minutes with philosophers, scientists, campaigners, entertainers, and historians.

[bobgray]

Having these discussions is so important - excellent work. I recently walked away from a job at a Catholic school largely because of the religious dogma that they push on the students. I was brought up in the Anglican religion, my grandpa was a vicar, but when I questioned aspects of the Bible I was told not to take things too literally. So I was left with the question of 'well what should I believe?'. It took me many years before I became aware of the Humanist philosophy and it all fell beautifully into place. I feel liberated as a result - thank you Andrew et al.
And well done to everyone who has had a similar outcome albeit very different circumstances to mine. I am not brave, I am fortunate but for many this journey has been life threatening.

[barbaragemin]

Thank you Andrew and Imtiaz. That was really interesting and made me think of the deep and complex implications of leaving Islam. It must take a lot of courage and determination. It’s amazing to think there’s a supportive community that now helps people cope with such a difficult step. Thanks again.

[cmdrtianyilin]

Imtiaz is great and very brave. Great conversation.

[radleye]

More should see this - what a smart and honest guy.