The University of Missouri is now observing Pagan and Wiccan holidays.
The school’s recently-published “Guide to Religions: Major Holidays and Suggested Accommodations” lists eight Pagan and Wiccan holidays next to such widely-observed dates as Christmas, Hanukah, and Thanksgiving . According to The College Fix , the guide asks professors to avoid scheduling exams or projects around these dates.
The “Guide to Religions” describes itself as an “educational tool” that can be used by faculty and students to learn about the various holidays observed around campus.
The university explains:
“Not only does this section offer crucial information about dates and practices, we also hope that the information about recommended academic and food accommodations will be valuable to those planning classroom activities and other academic and co-curricular events.”
University of Missouri officials said they are simply trying to include the beliefs of everyone who has chosen to study at the school. However, the updated list isn’t without its detractors.
Radio talk show host Tammy Edwards told Fox News that she believes the observation of Pagan and Wiccan holidays simply gives people an excuse to skip out on their responsibilities and obligations.
She explained:
“It almost seems as though we’re looking for excuses for people to not have to take their commitments seriously. It’s beyond political correctness; it’s almost like an excuse to do nothing. It’s like societal nihilism, where nothing matters.”
Pagan and Wiccan holidays listed in the university’s guide include the equinoxes, Feast of Pan, and the Lammas harvest celebration. The guide describes the Wiccan New Year — also known as Halloween — as “a time to celebrate the lives of those who have passed on, welcome those born during the past year into the community, and reflecting on past relationships, events and other significant changes in life.”
Do you think the University of Missouri should observe Pagan and Wiccan holidays?
[Image by Wikimedia Commons ]