Wiccans/Pagans: What's your take on secrecy about your religion?

Question

Are you in the "broom closet"? Out and proud? Somewhere in between?

Personally, I'm out and proud. I am a Solitary Wiccan of over 10 years, and I have never been in the broom closet. It's just another religion and I've never seen any reason to hide it.

I'm interested in hearing about other peoples' perspectives of this.

Thanks! BB

P.S. I don't make any grand announcements about my spiritual path in everyday life, I just don't hide it. I don't want to give the impression that I flaunt it or shove any spiritual ideas in anyone's face. But anyway this isn't about me, I just shared my perspective becuase I asked you all to share yours. Thanks again :)

Answer 1

I'm fortunate to live in an area where I can be as out as I want to. Some of my co-workers know I'm pagan, and there's no problem with visiting pagan websites from work.

The last ten years have seen a lot more public tolerance for paganism--before that, and especially in the 60's and 70's, people could get publicly attacked for announcing that they're not Christian. (It still happens in some places.)

I understand those who don't feel safe being public about their religion, and think it's important for those who do to come forward a bit, and increase public awareness--even if it's as small as wearing a tiny pentacle at work, or occasionally mentioning that you're going to a public Sabbat in the park.

Answer 2

I'm out and proud too - wear my pentagram belt buckle (one of those rodeo trophy style ones) Get a lot of "Are you from Texas? comments. I've never had someone give a negative comment - I would guess most people don't even know what it is or if they do they chose not to comment - but do get good comments ofter. Just like Christians wearing a cross - it's a symbol of their beliefs but they don't make a big deal about it in public situations. Its mainly the Internet where you can have such uproars.

Of course several years ago i was fired for my religion but they got theirs and I had a better job the next day.

Answer 3

I am not one to announce my spirituality just to prove I can. If someone asks, I tell them. I have no reason to be ashamed of it. Sadly, there are a lot of people who will try to make your life difficult when they realize you are pagan. (as if my spirituality is going to have an affect on their life.....)

No one should have to hide how they worship. But at the same time, I don't think it is appropriate to shove your beliefs in someone else's face, either. Spirituality is sacred, no matter what path you follow, be it Christian, Pagan or another. It is no one's choice but your own. No one has the right to tell you otherwise.

Answer 4

I am a polytheist but there's never been any kind of "broom closet" for me. I grew up as a polytheist so it's always been...well, just me. Anyone who knows me, knows me. My religion is my way of life and I've never thought to either advertise or hide it. It just is. I've seldom had any problems with people's reactions to learning my religion. It's just what I am and no one seems to give it a second thought. I'm probably not answering this question very well--sorry.

Answer 5

Unfortunately Pagans are still persecuted in many areas of this country. Professional lives can be affected. Kids at school can be tormented for their faith (Paganism). Fortunately, some are in a position to be open about being Pagan, and hopefully we can help to educate the rest of society about how we are simply tree huggers and dirt worshipers, or something like that.

Peace

Answer 6

I am Red Road and consider myself Pagan. I have never hidden it, because I see no reason to. I, like you, don't flaunt it and I certainly don't try to convert others to it. I see no reasons for those things either. My spiritual path is a big deal to ME, but I understand that doesn't make it a big deal for someone else any more than THEIRS is for me. I just kinda figure ... Live and let live, and if there is a reason to discuss or share, hey, that's cool. ;-) ~ Peace & Blessings ~

Answer 7

Since the federal court ruled that it was a valid religion. the only secrets are those that your coven have put on you or in your case and mine what ever you wish to keep secret. such as whats in your book of shadows.
You can help dispel some of the misconceptions that the Catholic Church has spread about what we stand for and believe in. Such as not worshiping the Christian devil or Satan. Even though we do believe in evil most of which is caused by humans themselves to make them feel Superior to others.

Answer 8

Out and proud, though my only "sign" is my pentacle necklace, and there are still situations in which I will make sure it's tucked in, because I know it will make some people uncomfortable and it's not worth the argument. I don't care who knows, and I'll answer most any question that they want to ask.

Answer 9

I would say I'm somewhere in between. The thing is, when it comes to religion talk sometimes people disrespect each other. So I rather not talk about it, but I'll tell if somebody asks.

Answer 10

I'm in-between.

I'm proud around those who know that I am Wiccan and don't judge me for it, but I try to keep quite around those who would otherwise not understand my religion.