The Satanic Temple launched an After School Satan Club at Chimneyrock Elementary School in Cordova, Tennessee.
The clubs have been able to operate on campuses due to First Amendment protections.
According to a flyer posted by The Satanic Temple, the group is a “non-theistic religious that views Satan as a literary figure who represents a metaphorical construct of rejecting tyranny and championing the human mind and spirit.”
“After School Satan Club does not attempt to convert children to any religious ideology. Instead, The Satanic Temple supports children to think for themselves.”
The flyer noted that the club’s activities are “centered around the Seven Fundamental Tenets and emphasize a scientific, rationalist, non-superstitious worldview.”
The Seven Fundamental Tenants are guiding principles for those in The Satanic Temple.
After School Satan Club is coming to Tennessee!
— The Satanic Temple (@satanic_temple_) December 12, 2023
The state's first ASSC will launch on on January 10th at Chimneyrock Elementary.
If you'd like to help provide needed supplies for TN's first ASSC, please visit our Amazon Wish List: https://t.co/3pSkBZLepx pic.twitter.com/cbAEyrfkK7
The school district released a statement on the matter, saying, “We understand that some of you have questions regarding the recent approval of a facility rental to The Satanic Temple, a federally recognized non-profit organization.”
“As a public school district, we’re committed to upholding the principles of the First Amendment, which guarantees equal access to all non-profit organizations seeking to use our facilities after school hours. This means we cannot approve or deny an organization’s request based solely on its viewpoints or beliefs.”
“Board Policy 7002 outlines this commitment, allowing community groups and government entities to rent school property outside of school hours. These gatherings are not school-sponsored and are not endorsed or promoted by Memphis-Shelby County Schools.”
“The Satanic Temple, recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) public charity, falls under this policy and has the same legal rights to use our facilities after school hours as any other non-profit organization. It will be renting the facility in January, after school. You may read more about the organization in an online news story from the Washington Post.”
“We understand that this topic may raise questions. Thank you for your understanding and continued partnership.”
American Faith reported that The Satanic Temple recently started an After School Satan Club at Lebanon Elementary School in Connecticut.
Satanic Temple leaders said the after-school program was requested by a parent who wanted an alternative to the Gospel-centric Good News Club.
“This particular parent was aware of the Good News Club and did not feel comfortable sending her children to the Good News Club and was more closely aligned with our seven tenets and our beliefs,” said Satanic Temple Campaign Director June Everett.
