Wiccans not welcome in Illinois

Like any religious group, Wiccans would like to have places where they can work on and learn about their beliefs. Thus, they try to set up centers which can serve not only as schools for Wiccans, but also as places where members of other faiths can learn more about Wicca. Matters don't always work out that well, however, - especially when intolerance rears its ugly head.

Chicago-based Telepathic Media had hoped to establish just such a center in Hoopestown, Illinois - but had to withdraw not only because of the intolerance, but also because they wouldn't be able to guarantee the safety of anyone who attended. According to the News-Gazette:

"In just over 24 hours, opponents collected 386 signatures on a petition, saying they opposed the sale of any property where witchcraft would be taught."

Ed Hubbard, executive director of Telepathic Media, even had to be escorted to his car by the chief of police - who politely informed Hubbard that perhaps it would be best if he left town. Tolerance for religious diversity is a rare beast in many small American towns. That's why our Constitution protects individual's religious liberty - we can't trust that it will be protected in any other way.

Read More:

• What is Wicca?
• The Witch Book: The Encyclopedia of Witchcraft, Wicca, and Neo-Paganism