Is my school breaking federal guidelines for religious expression in public schools?

Question

I have found in some federal guidelines for religious expression in public schools that "Students may display religious messages on clothing to the same extent they may display other comparable messages"; however, in the handbook for my school it clearly states that clothing or jewelry or other paraphernalia that suggests witchcraft, cults, or satanism are prohibited. Aren't those types of religion?
If so, doesn't that mean that the school is breaking that rule by saying we can't display those certain religions on clothing or anything else we're wearing?
Could anything be done about this?

Answer 1

If the school is private, no. If the school is public, most assuredly. I would contact the ACLU if you're in a public school that has this in the handbook.

Answer 2

Thats a thin line.
Really, are cults in general a recognized religion by the United States Government? (does the government consider it a religion) If not thats where they have you at. I believe Wicca is, i dont know about Satanism.
You could test the waters, and if they say something about it you could go get an attorney and fight the school board for 4 years of your high school life and probably get nowhere....but really is it worth all of that?
Also, they have the right to make the final call. If they feel a shirt or clothing is too distracting thats where they can draw the line - regardless of whats on it.
Too bad things arent like they were back in my days, back in the 80s. I remember wearing a shirt with Ozzy nailed to a cross on it to school. Nobody gave a damn.

Answer 3

Maybe you can't suggest witchcraft, satanism etc. but you can still display a comparable message pertenant to that religion, right?

For example: Wiccan religion dictates that if you wrong someone it will come back to you 3-fold. That's a Wiccan belief; I don't think they could prevent you from spreading that message right?

In the context of the guidelines I think they mention those religions specifically (perhaps, due to lack of knowledge) because Satanism has been commonly associated with Satan-worshipping/evil practices etc.

However, if you can find a good "comparable message" from any religion I do not see why they'd stop you.

Peace.

Answer 4

you should take this up with your principal first, then if he or she takes no action, go to the school board. be aware that the ground you are standing on is shaky because witchcraft, wicca, and paganism are not widely accepted as valid religious choices and satanism even less so. i doubt you could get them to budge on satanism because of the common misconception of it as a violent, hateful religion.
i suggest you do some research into witchcraft, wicca, and paganism in general so that you know what you're talking about and can make a much stronger case.
create a petion and start approaching students from all walks of life.
you are going to be fighting an uphill battle if you decide to take this up. freedom of speech and religion is not as cut and dried as it seems. hate speech and any speech that presents a "clear and present danger" are not covered, nor is liable or slander. speech and religious expression can be restricted in a school environment to help promote a viable learning environment.
i suggest you take this question to the goverment section. they might be able to give you some more info and some links to helpful sites.

Answer 5

If this is a PUBLIC school they are indeed breaking federal guidelines. The problem here is that many school systems do not understand that Wicca, Pagan religions (such as Asatruar/Heathenry and Hellenismos), and, yes, even Satanism are LEGALLY RECOGNISED RELIGIONS.

If you are a member of a group that practices one of these religions and have access to documentation, you may have legal recourse.

The suggestion of the ACLU is a good one, but it may be hard for you to get them to take the case. You may also try this website http://www.paganaidalliance.org/pagans%20and%20the%20law%20---%20%20%20Pagan%20Aid%20Alliance.htm

I also recommend the following book: "Pagans and the Law: Understand Your Rights" by Dana Eilers (I have this one on my bookshelf and consider it a must-read for ALL Pagans/Wiccans)

Answer 6

It's ignorance on their part. The previous answerers are right, you should contact the ACLU. Unless you go to a private school, then they can pretty much make any silly rule they want about what you wear, within reason, I suppose.
Maybe it will just take a little educating those in charge on what qualifies as a recognized religion. It might also help to find other people, parents, others in the district who practice those other religions who will support you.

Answer 7

Yes, that is clearly in violation of the Equal Access Act. Witchcraft is a practice of Wicca, a religion recognized by the US Government. You can bring it up to the principal or your mayor or any school board official. Good luck!

Answer 8

Yes, this is against the law. Witchcraft is a religion.. I think that maybe they are trying to prevent violence? But if anyone knows anything about wicca, it is totally against violence. Satanism might be different however.. And I am offended that they link the two.

Answer 9

there is already a "secrets and strategies retaliation" against your daughter. you're able to talk to the instructor and tell her you're completely attentive to your daughters rights and you be attentive to that she has violated them in stifling her buzzing or perhaps in her conversations along with her pals. Be stern considering you're interior the excellent in this. in case you at the instant are not happy with the end results of this convention, then pass earlier the concept and if mandatory the board. you have each reason to question this instructors judgment. arise to your toddler or no person will. stable luck.

Answer 10

Witchcraft and cults? I don't think they can prohibit that. If they truly beleive in "Satanism", then they can wear stuff like that. Sue the school!