Saturday, March 22 - From 9am to 5pm - 2025 International Conference on Freemasonry

Freemasonry in Popular Culture: 1700 to Yesterday, Part 1

Exploring Freemasonry’s Influence on Popular Culture.

The 13th International Conference on Freemasonry is returning to the campus of the University of California in Los Angeles on March 22, 2025, with a focus on “Freemasonry in Popular Culture: 1700 to Yesterday, Part 1″.

    When Dr. Susan Mitchell Sommers, Chair of the International Conference of Freemasonry, issued the call for proposals for this conference, she hoped scholars would creatively interpret the theme of “Freemasonry in Popular Culture: 1700 to Yesterday.” The response exceeded expectations, delivering diverse and engaging perspectives.

    From its inception, Freemasonry has interwoven with popular culture—borrowing symbols, rituals, and myths while influencing countless other fraternal organizations. This cultural exchange, formalized during the rise of Grand Lodge Freemasonry in the 1720s, has shaped both masonic and non-masonic traditions, creating a fascinating tapestry of shared practices.

    This year, we’re meeting in Los Angeles, the epicenter of American entertainment, to explore how Freemasonry intersects with the cultural zeitgeist. Presentations include analyses of historical catalogs that shaped fraternal regalia, insights into shared ritualistic practices, and even deep dives into iconic media like Bimbo’s Initiation (1931)—a surreal animated short laden with masonic and fraternal motifs once easily recognizable to its contemporary audience.

    The conference promises to unravel how Freemasonry has shaped and been shaped by the ever-evolving landscape of popular culture. Join us as we delve into these dynamic intersections! 

2025 International Conference on Freemasonry

Saturday, March 22 

Admission: $40; optional lunch $25



University of California, Los Angeles - Faculty Club

480 Charles E Young Dr E
Los Angeles, CA 90095

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Celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the Grand Lodge of California! Saturday, April 19, 5-9 p.m. Four Gala Locations to Choose From: California Masonic Memorial Temple. 1111 California St San Francisco, CA 94108. San Diego Scottish Rite. 1561 Camino Del Rio South San Diego, CA 92108. Sacramento Scottish Rite. 6151 H Street, Sacramento CA 95819. Pasadena Scottish Rite.150 N Madison Ave Pasadena, CA 91101.
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            El Dia de las Américas tiene su origen en la primera conferencia internacional Americana realizada en Washington D.C., Estados Unidos, el 14 de Abril de 1890, donde se creó la asociación entre países americanos llamada “Unión de las Repúblicas Americanas”, la cual, a partir de 1910 se denominó Unión Panamericana, precursora de la OEA, creada el 30 de abril de 1948, por 21 naciones del hemisferio reunidas en Bogotá,  Colombia.       The Day of the Americas has its origin in the first American international conference held in Washington D.C., United States, on April 14, 1890, establishing the association between American countries called "Union of American Republics", which, from 1910 was called Pan American Union, precursor of the OAS, created on April 30, 1948, by 21 nations of the hemisphere gathered in Bogota, Colombia. ******* Himno de las Americas Rodolfo Aníbal Sciammarella     El Himno...
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April & May 2025 - Join Grand Master Arthur L. Salazar at this April & May Masonic Events!

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 Join Grand Master Arthur L. Salazar as the Grand Lodge of California hosts an exciting lineup of events this spring, and we’d love for you to be part of it! April & May – Our Leadership Retreats are happening across four incredible locations: Anaheim, San Ramon, Lake Tahoe, and Palm Springs! Designed for lodge leaders and officers, these retreats offer a great opportunity to grow, connect, and strengthen your impact.  Register today:  https://freemason.org/retreats/ April 19 – Celebrate 175 years of the Grand Lodge of California with a special Gala & Day of Service. Join us as we honor our history and give back to the communities we serve.  Reserve your spot:  https://freemason.org/175Gala This year is filled with opportunities to connect,  learn, and celebrate everything it means to be a California Freemason. We hope to see you there!
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