U. S. Commission on Civil Rights

Briefing on Prisoners' Religious Rights
Friday, February 8, 2008
Washington, DC

Rev. Patrick McCollum appeared today at the US Commission on Civil Rights in Washington, DC. He spoke at the Commission's briefing focused on prisoners' religious rights. The briefing included two panels. The first panel examined the free exercise of religion by inmates and prison security issues. The second panel, which included a presentation by McCollum, focused on the free exercise of religion and separation of church and state issues in correctional settings.

In his remarks, Patrick cited examples of some of the types of religious discrimination that Wiccan clergy and inmates have experienced in prison settings. He concluded his presentation with recommendations for achieving religious equality in prison settings, including a call for getting "rid of administrators and chaplains who believe that breaking the law by violating inmates' religious rights is justified by faith."

In a phone call following the briefing, Patrick told Selena Fox: "My presentation at the briefing went well. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to express Pagan perspectives on this important topic. I think that being part of this briefing has laid the groundwork for additional public education in the future."

Jeanet Ewing, also of Circle Sanctuary, covered the briefing for CIRCLE Magazine and Circle Times. She reports "Patrick did an excellent job. He was well-spoken, well-dressed, and well-received."

"Patrick's participation in this briefing has not only conveyed the importance of fair and equal treatment for Pagans and those of other faiths in prison settings, it has advanced the quest for equal rights for Wiccan and Pagans in society as a whole," says Selena Fox. "Thanks to Patrick and to everyone who has supported him on this historic occasion. May we continue to work together so that there will truly be liberty and justice for all."

More information about the briefing, plus photos:
http://www.circlesanctuary.org/liberty/usccr

Text of Patrick McCollum's remarks:
http://www.circlesanctuary.org/liberty/usccr/remarks.htm

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Circle Times: Friday, February 8, 2008