Join us for a full day of speakers, conversation, and community at the 2026 Kentucky Freethought Convention! At a time when Christian nationalism is threatening our rights, our public institutions, and the separation of religion and government, opportunities like this are especially important. The convention is a chance to learn more about the issues we're facing, connect with others who share our values, and leave with new ideas for getting involved in your own community. Spend the day with fellow atheists, humanists, freethinkers, and allies from across Kentucky and the region. Building strong secular communities is an important part of making sure none of us has to face the challenges ahead alone.

Theme: Empowering Humanity and Securing Our Freedoms

True empowerment arises when individuals are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and social structures necessary to determine their own futures. This involves fostering critical thinking, ensuring equitable access to information, and upholding the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In parallel we must proactively defend against authoritarianism and systemic inequality. By prioritizing reason and empathy over dogma, we can build resilient societies where every individual has the liberty to pursue their full potential, contributing to a more just and liberated world for all.

Tickets Available

Your general admission ticket includes lunch. We are taking advantage of the beautiful indoor space to socialize and connect over a meal during a break in programming. Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-free options are available.

Want to stay the night? Book a hotel room with our convention block rate of $139/night. Update the check-in dates to match your travel needs.

Speakers

Nick Fish - President, American Atheists
Jake Via - Organizing Director, American Humanist Association
Chris Line - Rapid Response Counsel, Freedom from Religion Foundation
Amanda Knief - Board Member, American Atheists
Dr. Pearlie M. Johnson - Independent Scholar
Chris Hartman - Executive Director, Fairness Campaign

Posters

This year's design features our community at the core of an atom, with our values orbiting as electrons: scales of justice for fairness and equality, open book for knowledge and critical thinking, and a hand holding a heart for empathy and compassion.

Support Kentucky Freethought and show your values with a poster!

2026 Poster

Cornerstone Contributors

Originally a program of the Kentucky Secular Society, the Kentucky Freethought Convention is now an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization. This process started in 2018 and was delayed a few times by world-changing events.

As a new independent organization, we started over with non-profit paperwork and funding, starting with $0. Because of the generous contributions of our original Cornerstone Contributors, we were able to cover those initial costs. If you'd like to contribute $25 to join the growing list to help offset our ongoing administrative operating expenses, you will be recognized for your support for this convention and future conventions as a Cornerstone Contributor, as we continue to build the organization with our all volunteer team.

For anyone supporting us again as a Cornerstone Contributor, you'll receive a special Continual Cornerstone Contributor recognition.

More Information

Kentucky Freethought Convention 2026

Join advocates, experts, and community leaders for conversations about the challenges facing secular Americans and how we can work together to protect our freedoms and build a more inclusive future.