The Satanic Temple, based in Salem, Massachusetts, had a huge and historical victory today as they officially got recognized as a church by the IRS. This is the first time in the United States that a satanic religious organization has ever been recognized as a church. The Satanic Temple has been in the spotlight recently after being featured in a new documentary titled Hail Satan?, directed by Penny Lane.
Other than making history, this official distinction will afford the Satanic Temple the same benefits as other religious organizations. They will be eligible for tax exemptions, faith-based government grants, and have more resources when fighting against religious discrimination for their members.
“In light of theocratic assaults upon the Separation of Church and State in the legislative efforts to establish a codified place of privilege for one religious viewpoint, we feel that accepting religious tax-exemption — rather than renouncing it in protest — can help us to better assert our claims to equal access and exemption while laying to rest any suspicion that we don’t meet the qualifications of a true religious organization,” said Satanic Temple co-founder Lucien Greaves. “Satanism is here to stay.”
Hail Satan? takes a look at the Satanic Temple’s quick and controversial rise in the United States and Canada, and their unwavering commitment to social and political justice while working to empower people around the world. The group currently has 13 chapters and is on mission “to encourage benevolence and empathy among all people.” The film had its world premiere at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival and was released on April 19th and will expand into additional theaters throughout the United States this Friday, April 26th.
To find out more about the Satanic Temple or to see where the film is screening, visit their official website.
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