Cartoonist, graphic novelist, and prop builder Paul ‘Polyp’ Fitzgerald will speak at Humanists UK Convention 2025, held at the Octagon Centre in Sheffield from 13–15 June 2025. Fitzgerald, a humanist freethinker and chair of the Peterloo Memorial Campaign, will be speaking alongside Humanist Heritage Manager Madeleine Goodall on four humanists and freethinkers who fought for our rights.
Tickets for Humanists UK Convention 2025 are on sale now – and running very low.
Based in Manchester, Fitzgerald is renowned for his intricate and thought-provoking work, tackling complex political, social, and environmental issues through his cartoons and graphic novels. His work often focuses on themes like climate change, economic inequality, corporate power, and social justice, presenting sharp commentary aimed at making challenging subjects accessible and engaging. Fitzgerald has also published a graphic biography exploring the life and ideas of radical thinker Thomas Paine. Using his detailed illustrative style, Fitzgerald vividly brings Paine’s 18th-century era and revolutionary arguments to life for a modern audience.
Humanists UK Chief Executive Andrew Copson said:
‘Paul’s unique ability to tackle complex issues through his art makes him a compelling voice for humanism. His graphic novels and cartoons bring important social and political themes to a wider audience, and we are delighted to welcome him to Humanists UK Convention 2025. His session with Maddy Goodall will be a fascinating exploration of humanists and freethinkers who have made a real difference to the world.’
Humanists UK Convention 2025 will bring together humanists from across the country for a weekend of science, politics, culture, and comedy. The event will be held at the Octagon Centre in Sheffield from 13–15 June 2025. Paul Fitzgerald joins a diverse line-up of speakers, including physicist Dr Helen Czerski; journalist Ian Dunt; author of Money, Lies, and God, Katherine Stewart; tech entrepreneur Sara Wahedi; happiness economist Professor Lord Richard Layard; anthropologist and author of The Evolutionary Origins of the Modern World, Professor Harvey Whitehouse; historian and editor of The Free Speech Wars, Dr Charlotte Lydia Riley; philosopher and author of What Is Humanism For?, Professor Richard Norman; Authoritarian Century author Dr Azeem Ibrahim OBE; folklorist and cultural anthropologist Deborah Hyde; AI, Faith & Civil Society Commissioner Professor Kate Devlin; and many more.
Humanists UK Convention 2025 | Sheffield
13 June 2025, 19:00
Octagon Centre, Clarkson Street, Sheffield, S10 2TQ
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For further comment or information, media should contact Humanists UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy Richy Thompson at press@humanists.uk or phone 0203 675 0959.
Humanists UK is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people. Powered by over 130,000 members and supporters, we advance free thinking and promote humanism to create a tolerant society where rational thinking and kindness prevail. We provide ceremonies, pastoral care, education, and support services benefitting over a million people every year and our campaigns advance humanist thinking on ethical issues, human rights, and equal treatment for all.