The Satanic Temple, in partnership with the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), has achieved a significant legal victory in a federal lawsuit against the Shelby County Board of Education in Memphis, Tennessee. This case, centered on critical First Amendment rights, challenged the school district’s discriminatory treatment of the After School Satan Club at Chimneyrock Elementary School.
"Satan has no room in this District."
Watch the press conference Memphis-Shelby County School District held in response to the After School Satan Club's announcement.
Earlier this year, TST faced blatant discrimination from the Shelby County Board of Education when attempting to establish an After School Satan Club at Chimneyrock Elementary School. The Board went to great lengths to obstruct the efforts of The Satanic Temple, imposing unjust rental and security fees, canceling reservations, and treating our members as second-class citizens. These actions starkly contrasted with the district's favorable treatment of other organizations, such as the Good News Club, clearly violating the First Amendment.
Thanks to TST and FFRF’s relentless pursuit of justice, the Shelby County Board of Education has agreed to commit to fair and equal treatment for all organizations moving forward and pay over $15,000 in attorneys’ fees and costs. The board will also pay one dollar for nominal damages to The Satanic Temple. This settlement is a resounding affirmation that First Amendment protections apply to The Satanic Temple and our members.
The Satanic Temple's dedication to justice shines through this victory. We will remain vigilant and ready to defend our members' civil rights against future infringements. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Freedom From Religion Foundation for their unwavering support and tireless efforts in this case. Their dedication and expertise were instrumental in achieving this victory, and we are profoundly grateful for their partnership in defending the civil rights of our members.
CLICK HERE to read FFRF's announcement.
