Satanic Idaho, a self-described atheist organization, is hosting a “gender-affirming ritual” Monday to remind the LGBTQ community that “not everyone uses religion to condemn,” according to a post on the group’s Facebook page.
Satanic Idaho describes itself as an “independent atheistic and non-supernatural satanic community,” according to their Twitter account, and is not affiliated with The Satanic Temple. The group is hosting an event where they will perform “gender-affirming rituals” to demonstrate acceptance, according to a Facebook post.
“We will be at the Capitol building in Boise performing gender affirmation rituals,” the post’s caption read. “The Capitol is a great venue, as Idahoans value compassion, justice and wisdom If you’re interested in helping or participating, let us know! We are also on Twitter.”
In the news: Philadelphia Man Arrested After Breaking Into Florida Fire Station, Ransacking Post-Super Bowl
“This is a sincere and deeply held religious belief to hold compassion for one’s self, as well as bodily autonomy. We believe that people have a right to their bodily autonomy and identity,” Rowan Astra, co-facilitator/cleric of Satanic Idaho, told KTVB7. “and if necessary, with a medical professional and gender-affirming healthcare. We also value the ‘other’ and, more importantly, standing up for the ‘other’ in our religion.”
The ritual gives a person the chance to recognize their past identity and embrace their present one, Astra told KTVB7.
“This is a sincere and deeply held religious belief to hold compassion for one’s self, as well as bodily autonomy. We believe that people have a right to their bodily autonomy and identity, “Astra said, “and if necessary with a medical professional and gender-affirming healthcare. We also value the ‘other’ and more importantly, standing up for the ‘other’ in our religion.”
In the news: 25 State Attorneys General Sue Federal Government Over ATF Pistol Brace Rule
A spokesperson for the state capitol confirmed the event and told the DCNF that there had initially been some concerns surrounding the event but, otherwise, no one had any issues.
Satanic Idaho did not immediately respond to the Daily Caller News Foundation’s request for comment.
Android Users, Click Here To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook Here Or Twitter Here. Signup for our free newsletter by clicking here.