The settlement agreement, filed today with the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin, brings to a successful conclusion a lawsuit Americans United brought against the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in November.
The litigation charged that denying a pentacle to deceased Wiccan service personnel, while granting religious symbols to those of other traditions, violated the U.S. Constitution.
“This settlement has forced the Bush Administration into acknowledging that there are no second class religions in America, including among our nation’s veterans,” said the Rev. Barry W. Lynn, Americans United executive director. “It is a proud day for religious freedom in the United States.”
Americans United
Woo hoo! Score! Touchdown! It's good! I wish I had something more philosophical or intelligent to say but I'm just too happy to try. I consider this a big win not only for Wiccans but for pagans in general. The system worked. It took over 10 years but it worked. Congratulations to all those involved in the legalities, they should be proud. Justice has prevailed!
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