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Pagan group claims discrimination over Parkersburg parade denial

(Lumps of Coal - Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

PARKERSBURG — A pan-pagan nonprofit group claims they suffered religious discrimination after being denied entry in Saturday’s Parkersburg Christmas Parade.

A news release from the Appalachian Pagan Ministry said the group was denied the opportunity to participate in the parade on the basis of its religious identity.

“We had hoped to celebrate the season alongside our neighbors by sharing a message of peace, love, and light — values that align with our spiritual beliefs and the broader ideals of the holidays,” Donna Donovan, a representative of Appalachian Pagan Ministry, said in the release. “Instead, we have been met with prejudice, and our community has been told that we are not welcome simply because of our faith.”

The release said after applying to have a float in the annual parade they were informed by organizers that their participation was not welcome because “of our Pagan identity.” The decision was made three days prior to the parade after much expense, the release said.

An organizer for the parade said the mayor’s office has final say on who can participate in the parade.

Parkersburg Mayor Tom Joyce said he is the one who made the decision, but declined to elaborate, citing potential legal issues.

“I’ve received a myriad number of calls … threatening litigation, so I really need to probably make no comment at this point,” he said.

Joyce did say that intimidation over the matter is “not acceptable.”

“If you disagree, you can certainly disagree but not be disagreeable,” he said.

The release from the Appalachian Pagan Ministry said the organization serves as “a vital support network for Pagan individuals, offering outreach, education, and resources to help build bridges of understanding among diverse spiritual traditions.”

By denying the group’s participation in the parade, the release said, organizers have “silenced a minority voice” and failed to uphold inclusive values of religious freedom and mutual respect.

“We call on the Parkersburg community and parade organizers to reconsider their stance and take meaningful steps toward fostering inclusivity and mutual respect,” it said. “Appalachian Pagan Ministry remains open to dialogue and hopes this incident will spark necessary conversations about equality and acceptance within our community.”

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