PEN is a
non-profit, proactive organization dedicated to
educating the public about Paganism as well as
building stronger, healthier communities through
service. We work to claim our Constitutional right
to freedom of worship, supporting that same right
for others, operating under the principle that
civil rights are indivisible. Founded in 1993 by
Cairril Adaire, it has made a difference for the
Pagan community by providing resources, educating
the public, and offering innovative solutions to
community problems.
PEN was
founded for several reasons:
* The riots after the first Rodney King police
brutality trial were a wake-up call to many
Americans that our communities are falling apart.
Discussion of religious freedom, or indeed any
Constitutional rights, is pointless if our
communities are not sustainable. In the belief that
Paganism offers unique solutions to many of
society's problems, PEN began with a deep
commitment to strengthening bonds between neighbors
of all faiths.
* The rising
influence of the religious right in the political
arena has led to increased tension within the Pagan
movement. It is time for Pagans to organize
themselves and educate their communities, in order
to short-circuit any attempts by the radical
religious right to curtail our liberties. PEN was
also founded in the strong belief that Pagan
participation in the democratic process will create
a civil, tolerant society.
* When one
considers that our spiritual ancestors gave their
liberty, their livelihood, and sometime their lives
for their beliefs, it is clear that Pagans in
America today have few reasons left to keep silent.
America is as tolerant as it's going to get on its
own. Many non-Pagans welcome our message of
Earth-honoring, respect for elders, and commitment
to community. We are in a unique position to make a
positive, lasting contribution to the seventh
generation: a healthy planet and a healthy culture.
Raise your eyes, raise your head, raise your
expectations. Be proud to be Pagan.
PEN was
incorporated as a non-profit organization in June
1997 and was granted 501(c)3 status by the IRS in May of 1998.
Meet
the Board
Bylaws
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