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School punishes student for religious beliefs
Filed under: Day Care & Education
Bryan Killian was just trying to practice his religion, but his school said no.
Bryan is a Pastafarian -- one who believes that Earth was created by the Flying Spaghetti Monster (pictured). To practice Pastafarianism, one must recognize pirates as "absolute divine beings," and subscribe to the belief that the declining number of pirates worldwide has direct links to global warming. Additionally, followers are required to dress in "full pirate regalia" whenever possible.
However, Bryan's North Carolina school claimed his costume was disruptive, and, by suspending him -- demanding under the threat of further discipline that Bryan remove his holy robes -- knowingly and deliberately interfered with a young man and his faith.
The religion came to prominence amidst the Kansas School Board "Intelligent Design" controversy, during which Bobby Henderson, the key prophet of Pastafarianism, wrote to the board, demanding equal time for all theories of creation -- including the teachings as handed down by the Flying Spaghetti Monster.
This is the face of injustice. When academic administrators can't see past their own pirate prejudice to allow a simple Prastafarian the freedom to express his spirituality, I'm not sure there's hope for education in America.
(Note: yes, I am joking, but no, I didn't make this up.)
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ReaderComments (Page 1 of 1)
4-06-2007 @ 2:11AM
Uncle Roger said...Y'know, I'm a big fan of Pastafarianism (Ramen!), but I could also see how full pirate regalia could definitely be disruptive to the classroom setting. On the other hand, so could a burka, I suppose. Tough call. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.
Reply
4-06-2007 @ 12:56PM
Nancy Toby said...This is an outrage!!!! Next thing they're going to be banning cross jewelry and head scarves!!!
Reply
4-06-2007 @ 3:10PM
SKL said...Why aren't the Rastafarians up in arms here?
Reply