Wiccan takes on board's prayer policy
Posted on Sunday, October 13 @ 15:58:17 EDT by SweenyTod
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Fellow witches are rallying around Bon Air Wiccan Priestess Cyndi Simpson and her quest to lead an invocation at Chesterfield County's Board of Supervisors meeting.
Simpson, a member of the Reclaiming Tradition of Wicca, was recently rejected by the county when she asked to be added to its list of religious leaders who perform such prayers.
This has prompted witches, other religious leaders and civil-rights activists to speak out, saying Chesterfield is violating their right to religious freedom.
"Wiccans should not be forced to stay inside the broom closet," said Karen Browder, a Wiccan from Chesterfield. "This is not the American way. They are suppressing a basic right."
Jesse Rabinowitz, director of psychological services at Jewish Family Services in Richmond, urged the county to reconsider.
"I urge you to take this opportunity to rise to the challenge, and model, as leaders, an attitude of lifelong learning and honest inquiry," Rabinowitz wrote in a letter to the board. "It's OK to take in new information and change your minds."
Members of the Wicca faith yesterday said it is not just they who are affected by the county's decision.
"If the people of Chesterfield County sit back and allow these officials to prevent Cyndi Simpson from sharing her faith with others, then they should remember that their rights and freedoms can be denied, just as easily, if these same officials don't agree with them," said Tracy Perry, a supporter from Hanover County.
"It has been 310 years since the Salem witch trials persecuted innocent women for their beliefs. The people of Chesterfield County should remember that those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it."
Read the rest of this story here.
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