I am writing in response to the article Enter Public
Pagan Circle (Sun, June 17).
I believe it is wrong to publicise such an event.
The sheer public nature of this even is appalling.
Public practice of these rituals has been made illegal
in other areas of Australia, and yet the council has
given full permission for it to go ahead.
This is poor judgement on behalf of the council, and
I do not believe if reflects the best interests of the
community.
The pagans say they wish to "dispel the Hollywood-style
illusions about witches".
By staging this event, they are strengthening Hollywood
illusion. The lie that witchcraft is a normal, acceptable
part of life.
Witchcraft is a dangerous practice but this side shall,
no doubt, be neglected when they perform the ritual.
They are not painting a clear picture of witchcraft
by neglecting their traditions, and have mocked themselves
by staging the event on the wrong day.
Witchcraft has always been regared as an evil practice,
now it is being portrayed as an alternative to our culture.
Is witchcraft something we want to become part of our
children's lives as an acceptable thing? We are lifting
it to normality by promoting such an event.
I believe this issue should be brought before the public
for discussion before any decisions are made regarding
witchcraft.
Elizabeth Burgess, Werrington Downs
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