This is where the responsibility of the community ends, and the justice system should now take over.As we look to the future and rebuild the new First Church of Satan, we cannot help but see around us the problems that face many of our brethren in other organizations.
The discrimination and misperceptions from society still exists for Satanists in their professional and personal lives. One of the biggest concerns continues to be the support of our own. Many Satanists have had to face the horrifying reality that in many situations you are not innocent until proven guilty. In many an emotionally charged accusation, before the last keystroke is hit, or the ink is dried on the paper, the defendant is automatically assumed to have executed the actions he is only alleged to have committed.
Recent history has shown us that admitted Satanists have been convicted of crimes. However, this is also true of Christians, Muslims and atheists. It seems that when a Satanist is convicted, the religion card is always used.
Recently the Gidneys, a couple in Florida, have been the subject of some cruel commentaries on the net lists. I would urge that everyone reserve their comments until the courts render their decision. A broken marriage is painful enough. Professional embarrassment due to financial difficulties do not have to be spread through the internet. It is obvious that when a divorce is imminent, a couple will often deal with a separation of finances, and thus monetary difficulties. These are none of our concern.
Abuse is our concern as caring members of a community and allegations of abuse or violence or difficulties of any kind certainly should be acted upon. The action has already been taken and is in the hands of authorities.
Do not add to anyone's pain by supposition or adding to the rumors. It does no one any good to denigrate or demean the Church of Satan or its policies. If you are not a member, you do not know their inner workings, and it is not your place to make any statements at this time. You may want to direct your comments or concerns to a member who can address any issues you may have privately. As for the Gidneys, please act prudently. There are other family members and children involved. Do not add to their pain with comments that may surface in places you would not wish them to be.
Obviously, the FCoS has no affiliation with the Gidneys or the CoS, except as a part of the community as a whole. If we cannot all support each other, who will in these situations? It is senseless to continue to break into factions and watch fellow Satanists and organizations be torn down.
I have a personal interest in this. For years, we have had a fallout of allegations of child abuse and pedophilia leveled at John Allee. None of those allegations are true. No charges have ever been filed. There are no arrests. This has always been a net fabrication. However, ask the average Satanist and they will believe that there is truth concerning the matter simply because it was spread all over the internet. We would like to see such incidents avoided in the future.
Regardless of our own particular affiliations, there is one thing we can do for the Satanic community and the occult community in general. Let Mr. Gidney be judged in a court of law, not on the internet boards and e-lists. Be certain of his guilt or innocence, and then state your opinions.
Together, we can all make a
difference. Separated, we are simply prey for outsiders looking for reasons to
stigmatize anyone who is not part of the Christian right.
Thank you for your time.
Lillee Allee, Public Relations, FCoS
FCoS Yahoo Group
ULC Satanist Yahoo
Group