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The Pentacle
Symbol of Belief |
Updates from the Lady Liberty League / Circle Times
The Americans United Federal Lawsuit
Excerpted from:
By Scott Bauer - AP/ Pioneer Press 2/2/2007
The lawsuit argues that the department's refusal to act on requests to permit the symbol on veterans' grave markers violated Wiccans' constitutional rights of freedom of speech, religion and due process. The lawsuit seeks an order compelling the VA to make a decision.
The lawsuit was filed by Circle Sanctuary, Isis Invicta Military Mission, a Wiccan and Pagan congregation serving military personnel based in Geyserville, Calif., and two widows of Wiccans - Roberta Stewart of Nevada and Karen DePolito of Utah.
The lawsuit says it makes no sense for Wiccan symbols to be banned from grave markers when Wiccan soldiers can list their faith on dog tags, Wiccan organizations are allowed to hold services on military installations, and the Army Chaplains Handbook includes an explanation of the religion.
Americans United also objects to the VA's proposed rule covering acceptance of new symbols on grave markers, Katskee said. It contains guidelines that give the VA too much discretion in deciding what to allow and does not have a firm enough time line governing the process, he said.
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Recent News
In late January:
Judge rejects government motion to delay, allows Wiccan lawsuit to proceed.
Feb 1/ 2007:
The filing of initial
disclosures by attorneys for both sides. This lawsuit is presently scheduled to go to trial on June 29,
2007.
Monday, February 5:
The process of discovery began in this
lawsuit. Attorneys with Americans United for Separation of Church and State
(AU) who are representing Circle Sanctuary and others in our case filed
requests for documentation and interrogatories. The VA now has 30 days to
respond.
ACLU LAWSUIT UPDATE
Friday, February 2,
The judge in the US Court of Appeals for Veterans
Claims decided to that a three judge panel will hear oral arguments in the
case against the VA brought by the ACLU, which is representing the Aquarian
Tabernacle Church and others. No date has been set yet.
More about the Pentacle Quest from the Lady Liberty League
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