Unified Diversity
by Magus Silverwolf

If there is one thing that most pagans will agree on, it is that Paganism is a very diverse religion.  As one of the largest growing religions in today's world, Paganism encompasses many different individual belief systems.  Wicca, Ceremonial Magick, Shamanic Beliefs, among others are all forms of Paganism, much like Baptist, Methodist, Pentecostal, and others are all forms of Christianity.  Thus it can be truly said that Paganism is a very diverse religion.

Diversity offers many positive aspects, but at the same time in can also have numerous negative effects.  Being diverse Paganism accepts practitioners from many different spiritual beliefs, without limiting them to a set doctrine.  And this diversity, which translates into freedom, has been a drawing point for many people seeking their own spiritual path.  Unfortunately, since Paganism is so diverse it's growth has been hindered both politically and socially.  Also the outcry of pagan groups, due to discrimination or injustice, is often given less recognition, and then would be given to a larger group, by the powers that be.  As a wise man once said, " There is strength in numbers", thus our diversity limits our strength, which is definitely a negative effect.

Many groups like Witches Voice and the Alternative Religion Education Network (AREN) have begun to bridge the gap, by providing networking and services to pagans nationwide.  Also on the local level groups, like the Delaware Valley Pagan Network (DVPN), have been started as a way for pagans to meet and network with one another locally.  Not to mention that many pagans gathered this year for Pagan Pride Day, at events that were organized regionally throughout the nation.  Plus the Internet has served as a tool for pagans to meet one another, network and fellowship, with new websites being launched everyday.

Still there is much needed work to be done, before Paganism can take its place amongst the recognized and accepted religions of this country.  Society, local municipalities, state legislative bodies and even federal government must all be educated as to our religious beliefs.  The falsehood that all pagans worship the devil, sacrifice animals, and perform all types of immoral acts, must be nullified.  Discrimination and injustice whenever encountered must be fought through legal means, and legislation must be passed protecting our religious freedom.  Lastly the prejudice and segregation between the various forms of Paganism must come to an end.  A lot of work is yet to be done, and each and every pagan can help in this process.

Now obviously this process is going to take time and effort, which may not come to fruition for years to come.  But just because the job is long and hard is not a reason to not do it, but rather a requirement that we begin as soon as possible.  Many of you may say, "How do we begin?" "What can I do?"; or "I am only one person," to you I offer the concept of Unified Diversity.  Falling back on the principle that there is strength in numbers I suggest that we as pagans must unite with one another.  We must drop our differences and nurture our similarities, we must reach out to one another, to fellowship, to extend a hand in friendship, and accept one another for what we all are, pagans.  For it is only in unity that Paganism as a religion can ever hope to succeed in this process.

Unified Diversity goes way beyond the individual pagan, or even local groups, it must extend to a national level, with associations and coalitions.  We must come together as a Pagan Community, consisting of numerous interwoven groups, circles and covens, all working in unison toward a higher goal.  As pagans many of us are also attorneys, scholars, activists, authors, educators, and bureaucrats, each of which need to be actively involved in this process.  We all must get together to discuss ideas, share insights, offer advice and opinions, and ban together as a community would do.  In my lifetime I would like to see a Pagan Coalition, made up of representatives from all across the country, organizing to get laws passed through Congress, to protect our religious freedoms and end the discrimination and prosecution that exists today.

I am sure that at one point in time Martin Luther King Jr., and a few friends sat down in his living room, discussing what possible action they could take to bring about needed changes in their lives.  From that little meeting came forth all the ideals, marches, rallies, and protests, which finally did bring about the long overdue change that was needed.   And even though Martin Luther King Jr., was not alive to see the change when it did finally happened, I'll bet that he never regretted the choice he made to stand up for what he believed in.  Fortunately for us this country has come a long way since that time, technology now allows us to communicate with one another through the Internet.  Many laws have been passed since those days, protecting our right to assemble, to speak freely, and to petition the government for needed change. Our task at hand is not going to be an easy one, far from it, but I do believe that someday Paganism will take its rightful place amongst the respected and accepted religions of this country.  And I as a pagan am willing to stand up for what I believe in, will you not join me?

Peace and Blessings,

Magus Silverwolf
paganmagus@hotmail.com

Note: The above article is strictly the opinion of its author, and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any media in which it may be printed.