Here’s a letter–masterful in its straightforward, noncommital, but compassionate wording–written by Senator Barack Obama to constituent Ken Goze regarding the VA’s continued refusal to allow the Wiccan pentacle on the gravestones of Wiccans buried in veteran cemetaries. This letter, posted on a Wiccan website (we haven’t confirmed the letter’s veracity, but have no reason to doubt its authenticity), does a good job of recapping the controversy. But you can read more about this 10-year-old argument by visiting CircleSanctuary.org.

July 21, 2006

Dear Ken:

Thank you for contacting me regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) refusal to allow “Wiccan” symbols on tombs in veterans’ cemeteries. I appreciate hearing from you.

As you know, the VA has refused a widow’s request that her fallen husband’s grave marker include a Wiccan symbol. The soldier, Sgt. Patrick Stewart, was killed in Afghanistan and is a recipient of a Purple Heart and Bronze Star.

Many observers share your disapproval of the VA’s decision. I understand their position, especially in light of the military’s apparent tolerance for the religion in most other policies. The media has reported that some 1,800 military personnel are open Wiccans, and they enjoy the same privileges as any other religious group in the Armed Services. In fact, Sgt. Stewart’s dog-tags identified him as a Wiccan.

Wiccan emblems are not among the 38 religious symbols approved by the VA for use at cemeteries. Approved symbols include those representing humanism, atheism and other unorthodox belief systems. According to the VA, the Wiccan symbol is still under review.

Many have taken issue with the fact that the VA has held up the approval process for Wiccan symbols for ten years while other symbols have been approved in much shorter periods of time. The VA has argued that it is in the process of developing a uniform set of standards for these reviews in hopes of preventing delays like this one.

In my view, the VA needs to make a decision one way or another. Sgt. Stewart’s family deserves an answer, and the excuses given thus far are unacceptable. Furthermore, the VA should take seriously its promise to develop uniform guidelines and get them done before more disputes arise.

Thank you again for writing.

Sincerely,
(signed)
Barack Obama
United States Senator