VA Approves Pentacle - Is the Hammer Next?
Yesterday, the news broke that the VA had finally reached a settlement in the Pentacle Quest case, and added the Pentacle to their official list of Emblems of Belief, meaning that it can now be placed on the government-issued gravestones of Wiccan veterans. This is great news — congratulations to everyone who fought so long and hard for recognition!
However, in an analysis posted today, Jason P-W of the Wild Hunt points out that the victory is slightly bittersweet, since the terms of the settlement prohibit the plaintiffs from keeping or disclosing any documents obtained by them during the discovery phase of the lawsuit. If this interpretation is correct, any potential proof of government wrongdoing during this long battle would not be available to interested parties, including any other groups seeking approval of their symbols in the future. The final sentence: “As for the VA, one wonders what will happen when Asatru organizations start applying for a gravestone symbol.“
One wonders, indeed. With so many Heathens in the military, has the time now come to seek approval for the Hammer?
Jaspenelle on 25 Apr 2007 at 1:19 pm #
Amazing how this topic has completely facilitated me in finding other “pagan” blogs
The victory is bittersweet yes, but over time the small (if drawn out) battles will win the war. At the moment I can only hope that future symbols will not be met with such resistance as the pentacle has found.
Scolaí on 25 Apr 2007 at 2:47 pm #
Namaste and Blessings.
My hopes that this protracted debate over the Pentacle will discourage future challenges by the VA to legitimate religious groups. The Hammer has equal right to appear on a Heathen soldier’s stone as the Cross, Pentacle, or any other symbol of faith.
Blesséd be.
Scolaí