MADISON, Wis. - The Wiccan pentacle has been added to the list of emblems allowed in national cemeteries and on government-issued headstones of fallen soldiers, according to a settlement announced Monday.| I am delighted this has concluded. The men and women of Wiccan faith bleed just as copiously to defend our nation and deserve our thanks, our respect, and the right to be buried in a place of honor under the symbol of their personal faith. This was the right and proper thing to do and I'm sorry it took this long and a lawsuit to bring it to pass. |
A settlement between the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Wiccans adds the five-pointed star to the list of "emblems of belief" allowed on VA grave markers. Eleven families nationwide are waiting for grave markers with the pentacle, said Selena Fox, a Wiccan high priestess with Circle Sanctuary in Barneveld, Wis., a plaintiff in the lawsuit.
The settlement calls for the pentacle, whose five points represent earth, air, fire, water and spirit, to be placed on grave markers within 14 days for those who have pending requests with the VA.
"I am glad this has ended in success in time to get markers for Memorial Day," Fox said.| Blesséd be and rest well. |
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