The Satanic Temple: Difference between revisions

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! style="background:#F8CBAD; color:#000000;" |Invocations
! style="background:#FFC7CE; color:#9C0006;" "|Invocations
|5/03/2023
|5/03/2023
|[[The Satanic Temple Inc. v. The City of Chicago]]
|[[The Satanic Temple Inc. v. The City of Chicago]]
|US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
|US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
|[https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/67320005/the-satanic-temple-inc-v-the-city-of-chicago/?order_by=desc 1:23-cv-02780]
|[https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/67320005/the-satanic-temple-inc-v-the-city-of-chicago/?order_by=desc 1:23-cv-02780]
! style="background:#F8CBAD; color:#000000;" |Dismissed (unclear)
! style="background:#FFC7CE; color:#9C0006;" |Dismissed (failure)
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|''Suit targeting the city of Chicago for failure to invite TST minister Adam Vavrick to give invocation.<ref>[https://www.courthousenews.com/satanic-temple-sues-chicago CourthouseNews.com], "Satanic Temple sues Chicago", May 3, 2023. ''The Satanic Temple sued the city of Chicago in federal court Wednesday over its refusal to allow an ordained minister of the Satanic Temple to deliver an invocation before City Council meetings “without providing any clear explanation of why.” The Establishment Clause requires that the opportunity to deliver a legislative prayer be made available “in a non-discriminatory manner,” according to the lawsuit.''</ref>Suit voluntarily dismissed with prejudice July 24,2024.<ref>[https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/67320005/36/the-satanic-temple-inc-v-the-city-of-chicago/ CourtListener.com], ''Civil case dismissed with prejudice - Document #36'', The Satanic Temple Inc. v. The City of Chicago (1:23-cv-02780), Northern District of Illinois.</ref>''
|''Suit targeting the city of Chicago for failure to invite TST minister Adam Vavrick to give invocation.<ref>[https://www.courthousenews.com/satanic-temple-sues-chicago CourthouseNews.com], "Satanic Temple sues Chicago", May 3, 2023. ''The Satanic Temple sued the city of Chicago in federal court Wednesday over its refusal to allow an ordained minister of the Satanic Temple to deliver an invocation before City Council meetings “without providing any clear explanation of why.” The Establishment Clause requires that the opportunity to deliver a legislative prayer be made available “in a non-discriminatory manner,” according to the lawsuit.''</ref>Suit voluntarily dismissed with prejudice July 24,2024, after plaintiff Vavrick announced his departure from TST's Ministry program July 8.<ref>[https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/67320005/36/the-satanic-temple-inc-v-the-city-of-chicago/ CourtListener.com], ''Civil case dismissed with prejudice - Document #36'', The Satanic Temple Inc. v. The City of Chicago (1:23-cv-02780), Northern District of Illinois.</ref><ref>[https://facebook.com/profile.php?id=726422036 Facebook.com], Facebook update by Adam Vavrick July 8, 2024: "Left Job at Satanic Ministry - Minister of Satan"</ref>''
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! style="background:#F8CBAD; color:#000000;" |Defamation
! style="background:#F8CBAD; color:#000000;" |Defamation

Revision as of 21:51, 30 July 2024

  • The United Federation of Churches, LLC does business as "The Satanic Temple", and owns its trademarks. It was originally registered in 2014. Its governing persons are jointly Cevin Soling and Douglas Misicko, as well as their pseudonyms. It is a for-profit Limited Liability Company.
  • The Satanic Temple Inc achieved Public Charity Status in 2019 as "a church or a convention or association of churches." It was originally registered in 2017 as "The Satanic Temple" before changing to its current name following the change in its federal tax status. Its governing board consists of Misicko, solely.

Both entities have been involved in a number of lawsuits under the name "The Satanic Temple", including "Inc" taking over some recent appeals of cases begun by "UFC LLC". In addition, TST members have been involved in religious discrimination arguments when representing themselves or when represented by the ACLU.

Lawsuits

Nonprofit Church Lawsuits

The Satanic Temple Inc. became the primary legal entity used for in suits involving "The Satanic Temple" beginning in 2019; this followed IRS recognition of the entity as a nonprofit church. The shift would include at one instance of taking over case begun by United Federation of Churches LLC. However, a point of contention in Cave et al v. Thurston between TST and the state of Arkansas has been which entity has actually officially involved in that case, begun in May 2018.

The Satanic Temple Inc. Cases
Issue Date Filed Case Name Original Jurisdiction Case Number Original Result First Appeal Second Appeal Notes
Invocations 5/03/2023 The Satanic Temple Inc. v. The City of Chicago US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois 1:23-cv-02780 Dismissed (failure) Suit targeting the city of Chicago for failure to invite TST minister Adam Vavrick to give invocation.[1]Suit voluntarily dismissed with prejudice July 24,2024, after plaintiff Vavrick announced his departure from TST's Ministry program July 8.[2][3]
Defamation 11/23/2022 Satanic Temple, Inc v. Jessica Snow 261st Civil District Court (Travis County, Texas) D-1-GN-22-006797 No Movement Suit targeting "The Satanic Housewife" for TikTok videos.[4][5][6] No docket activity since complaint filed in November 2022.
Abortion 9/30/2022 The Satanic Temple v. Little US District Court for the District of Idaho 1:22-cv-00411 Dismissed (failure) Ongoing

[7]

Idaho abortion ban challenge. Complaint largely identical to The Satanic Temple v. Rokita (22-1859) except for references to Idaho instead of Indiana.
Abortion 9/21/2022 The Satanic Temple v. Rokita US District Court for the Southern District of Indiana 1:22-cv-01859 Dismissed (failure)

[8]

Ongoing

[9]

Indiana abortion ban challenge but involving no specific pregnant client. TST represented by W. James MacNaughton.
Abortion 9/08/2022 Satanic Temple v. TX Hlth and Human Svc US Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit 22-20459 Failed motion Dismissed (failure)

[10]

Originating from U.S. District Court case 4:21-CV-387 ("Ann Doe I")
Other 6/06/2022 Matthew Kezhaya v. City of Belle Plaine[11] US Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit 22-2183 Sanctions imposed Affirmed (failure)

[12]

TST lawyer Matthew Kezhaya's failed appeal of sanctions in the amount of $16,943.40 from 0:21-cv-00336-WMW ("Satanic Temple I")
Commerce 2/25/2022 The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Lamar Media Corporation ("Lamar II") US District Court for the Western District of Arkansas 5:22-cv-05033 Dismissed (unclear) TST Inc. withdrew from a previous state-level lawsuit in February 2021. August 2023 dismissal in context that "parties have resolved all issues between them".[13]
Defamation 2/16/2022 The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Newsweek Magazine LLC US District Court for the Southern District of New York 1:22-cv-01343 Ongoing Lawsuit relates to Newsweek's coverage of UFC LLC v. Johnson et al[14][15] All claims dismissed except for matter of whether TST is a public figure and whether TST was defamed by reporting statements of sexual misconduct and abuse.
Abortion 2/1/2022 The Satanic Temple, Inc., et al v. Young et al ("Ann Doe II") 459th Civil District Court (Travis County, Texas) D-1-GN-22-000560 No Movement State-level filing distinct from "Ann Doe I" filed the year before in federal court. No docket activity since attorney vacation notification in June 2022
Abortion 2/5/2021 The Satanic Temple, Inc. et al v. Hellerstedt et al ("Ann Doe I") US District Court for the Southern District of Texas 4:21-cv-00387 Dismissed (failure)

[16]

Dismissed (failure)

[17]

District court case fully dismissed July 3, 2023.[18][19], appellate case dismissed because TST "desire to avail themselves of the right to replead"[20]
Public monuments 2/4/2021 Satanic Temple, Inc v. Belle Plaine, City of ("Satanic Temple II") US District Court for the District of Minnesota 0:21-cv-00336 Dismissed (failure)

[21]

Affirmed (failure)

[22]

Duplicative lawsuit. Judge sanctioned TST for filing second suit before first was complete
Invocations 1/20/2021 The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. City of Boston US District Court of Massachusetts - Boston 1:21-cv-10102 Dismissed (failure)

[23]

Ongoing

[24]

TST lawyer Matthew Kezhaya sanctioned for actions related to attempt to depose then-mayoral candidate Michelle Wu on Election Day.[25]
Commerce 9/27/2020 The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Lamar Advertising of Louisiana, LLC ("Lamar I") 19th West Circuit Court 5 (Benton County, Ark.) 04CV-20-2100 Terminated (unclear)

[26][27]

TST Inc. withdrew lawsuit but no terms available, if any
Invocations 3/2/2020 The Satanic Temple, Inc., et al v. City of Scottsdale U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit 20-15338 - Affirmed (failure)

[28][29][30]

Case begun by UFC LLC[31]
Public monuments 4/25/2019 Satanic Temple, The v. Belle Plaine, City of ("Satanic Temple I") US District Court for the District of Minnesota 0:19-cv-01122 Dismissed (failure)

[32][33]

Affirmed (failure)[22] Original lawsuit.

For-Profit Corporation Lawsuits

The United Federation of Churches, LLC has been involved in a number of lawsuits since its formation.

In 2018, the company sued Netflix Inc. and Warner Brothers Entertainment Inc. in the Southern District of New York over use of a breastless Baphomet statue with children in The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, claiming defamation and that its intellectual property rights had been violated, harming its business reputation.[34]

The suit was eventually dismissed with prejudice after Netflix agreed to give a copyright credit on all episodes that had been filmed.[35]

The following list is non-exhaustive and includes several cases represented by lawyers of The Satanic Temple but did not include them as plaintiffs.

United Federation of Churches LLC court cases
Issue Date Filed Case Name Original Jurisdiction Case Number Original Result First Appeal Second Appeal Notes
Commerce 4/5/2023 United Federation of Churches DBA v. Johnson AKA et al ("Queer Satanic II") King County Superior Court 23-2-06120-9 SEA Ongoing TST re-filed a new case in Washington state court while pursuing an appeal of the same claims in federal court. Case stayed pending resolution of TST's appeal of federal case in Ninth Circuit.
Defamation & Commerce 4/3/2020 United Federation of Churches LLC v. Johnson et al ("Queer Satanic I") US District Court for the Western District of Washington 2:2020-cv-00509 Dismissed

(failure)

Affirmed In Part; Vacated & Remanded In Part

(split)

[36]

Dismissed

(failure)

Initial claims dismissed[1][2]; amended complaint re-filed[3], motion for re-consideration dismissed[4]; motion to dismiss granted[5]; Ninth Circuit appeal affirmed in part, vacated and remanded in part [6], remainder voluntarily dismissed by Plaintiff[7]
Commerce 11/8/2018 United Federation of Churches LLC v. Netflix, Inc. et al US District Court for the Southern District of New York 1:2018-cv-10372 Settlement (favorable)

(Success)

[35][37]

TST utilized outside law firm D'agostino, Levine, Landesman & Lederman LLP
Public monuments 7/12/2018 Cave et al v. Thurston US District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas 4:18-cv-00342 Ongoing "Doug Misicko" and "Satanic Temple" listed as Intervenors[38]
Abortion 2/28/2018 Doe v. Greitens et al ("Judy Doe") [39] US District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri 4:18-cv-00339 Dismissed

(failure)

[40]

Affirmed

(failure)

[41][42][43]

Appeal to SCOTUS denied

(failure)

[44][45][46]

TST had also sought to disqualify new Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett[47][48]
Invocations 2/26/2018 Satanic Temple et al v. Scottsdale, City of et al US District Court of Arizona - Phoenix 2:2018-cv-00621 Judgment in favor of Defendants

(failure)

[49][50]

Case continued by The Satanic Temple Inc
Abortion 6/23/2015 The Satanic Temple et al v. Jeremiah Jay Nixon et al. ("Mary Doe II") US District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri 4:2015-cv-00986 Dismissed

(failure)

Affirmed

(failure)

[51]

Mary Doe was not pregnant at time of filing federal case, so court determined she lacked standing
Abortion 5/11/2015 Mary Doe v. Jeremiah J Nixon et al ("Mary Doe I") Circuit Court of Cole County, Missouri 15AC-CC00205 Dismissed

(failure)

[52]

State Appeals Court ordered transfer

(neutral)

[53][54]

State Supreme Court affirmed

(failure)

[55][52]

State supreme court upheld lower court decision unanimously, but two of seven justices had concurring opinion

Other Lawsuits

Early legal cases involved The Satanic Temple or its members being represented by the American Civil Liberties Union, however, contrary to popular belief, the Temple's only involvement in the ACLU's successful case to to remove the 10 Commandments monument from the Oklahoma State Capitol (Prescott v. Oklahoma Capitol Preservation Commission) was a footnote from the opinion.[56]

Cases by others involving TST
Issue Date Filed Case Name Original Jurisdiction Case Number Original Result First Appeal Second Appeal Notes
School 3/19/2024 The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Shelby County Board of Education US District Court for the Western District of Tennessee 2:24-cv-02178 Settlement (favorable) Plaintiff represented by the Freedom From Religion Foundation and the Kramer Law Center of Memphis. Case dismissed with school board paying FFRF's legal fees and promising not to discriminate against TST.[57]
School 3/30/2023 The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Saucon Valley School District US District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania 5:23-cv-01244 Settlement (favorable)

[58][59]

School district had withdrawn use of facility for After School Satan club after bomb threat made but claimed an advertising violation; a judge required school to fulfill previous agreement as litigation continued, with school district ultimately paying ACLU $200,000 for legal costs.[60]
Other 9/11/2018 Mayle v. Chicago Park District ("Emotional Support Hog") US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois 1:18-cv-06211 Dismissed (failure) [61][62] Affirmed (failure) Pro se TST Member; Appeal Case# 0:19-cv-03208
Other 4/24/2018 Mayle v. The State of Illinois ("Bigamy II") US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois 1:18-cv-02924 Dismissed (failure) [63] Affirmed (failure) Pro se TST Member; Appeal Case# 0:19-cv-01691
Other 5/5/2017 Mayle v. The Congress of the United States of America ("In God We Trust") US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois 1:17-cv-03417 Dismissed (failure) [64] Affirmed (failure) [65] Pro se TST Member; Appeal Case# 17-3221
Other 4/10/2017 Mayle v. Orr, et al ("Bigamy I") US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois 1:17-cv-00449 Dismissed (failure) [66][67] Pro se TST Member; intended appeal failed due to Plaintiff msising filing deadline
Invocations 1/9/2017 Hunt v. Kenai Peninsula Borough United States District Court - District of Alaska 3:17-cv-00007 Returned to State Superior Court (neutral) ACLU representing a TST member
Invocations 12/14/2016 Hunt, Lance vs. Kenai Peninsula Borough AP Third Judicial District Superior Court - Anchorage 3AN-16-10652CI Summary Judgment for Plaintiffs (success) [68] ACLU representing a TST member
Public Monuments 5/4/2016 Kondrat'yev et al v. City of Pensacola et al Northern District of Florida (Pensacola) 3:16-cv-00195 Summary Judgment for Plaintiffs (Success) [69] Affirmed (success) [70] Reversed (failure) [71] Freedom From Religion Foundation representing a TST member, between first appeal and second appeal, U.S. Supreme Court decided American Legion v. American Humanist Association leading to 11th Circuit Court to reverse decision.
Public Monuments 3/24/2015 Freedom from Religion Foundation, Inc. et al v. Franklin County, Indiana[72] US District Court for the Southern District of Indiana 1:2015-cv-00484 Settled Out of Court (success) [73][74][75] ACLU representing United Federation of Churches LLC

Other Legal Actions

Additionally, there are an unknown number of other cases The Satanic Temple or its affiliate entities may have been involved in either in the capacity of submitting amicus briefs, as with St. Michael's Media, Inc. v. The Mayor and City Council of Baltimore, or other legal complaints that are not lawsuits.[76][77]

For example, in communication with the state of Arkansas for Cave v. Thurston, The Satanic Temple revealed that TST had raised three administrative complaints to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination:[78]

  1. The Satanic Temple v. Window World of Boston LLC (18BPA02782)
  2. The Satanic Temple v. Twitter (18BPA00827)
  3. The Satanic Temple v. Facebook (case number unknown)

Additionally, as part of their federal lawsuit against the city of Boston, Mass., a fourth such case came to light:[79]

  • The Satanic Temple v. City of Boston (18BPA02946)

    • However, TST had only publicly revealed the complaint against Twitter as part of a fundraising effort, which also involved disclosing that attorney Marc Randazza was representing the Temple in the complaint, over the objections of many local chapters. [80] A final category is legal threats sent to critics and former members, which The Satanic Temple has a reputation for going back as far as 2014, as described by the Temple's first "high priest" Brian Werner.[81] However, it was also present as part of the Great Schism of 2018, which involved TST threatening many of them. [82] Finally, an especially egregious example came to light in June 2022 when The Satanic Temple sent a series of emails to the TikToker @TheSatanicHousewife in reaction to one of her videos, threatening her with a lawsuit if she did not record the prepared statement they sent her.[83]

    Criminal Court Cases

    Issue Date Filed Case Name Original Jurisdiction Case Number Result Notes
    Attempted bombing 5/7/2024 United States v. Terpstra US Western District of Michigan 1:24-cr-00067 Ongoing Defendant Luke Isaac Terpstra also indicted on federal charges relating to Michigan case# 2024000021.
    Attempted bombing 4/15/2024 United States v. Palmer US District Court of Massachusetts 1:24-mj-01222

    1:24-cr-10132

    		Ongoing Defendant Sean Patrick Palmer accused of throwing an improvised explosive device, charged with "18 U.S.C. § 844(i) - Maliciously damaging or destroying a building by means of fire or explosive"
    Attempted bombing [UNK] State of Michigan v. Terpstra 78th District Court (Newaygo County, Mich.) 2024000021 Ongoing Defendant Luke Isaac Terpstra accused of making explosives in his home with plan to "blow up" TST headquarters; charged with "Explosives - Possession of bombs with unlawful intent" in January 2024; state ID# 202402057
    Vandalism [UNK] State of Iowa v. Cassidy Polk County (Iowa) District Court SRCR376781 Pleaded guilty Defendant Michael Patrick Cassidy was accused of hate crime in relation to destruction of a winter holiday Baphomet display at the Iowa state capitol; charged with "729A.2 Violation of individual rights — hate crime"; Cassidy pleaded guilty to misdemeanor and received two years probation.[84]
    Arson [UNK] State of Massachusetts v. Lucey Salem (Mass.) District Court [UNK] In custody at Bridgewater State Hospital as of 2/22/2024 Defendant Daniel Damien Lucey accused of setting a fire at The Satanic Temple headquarters in June 2022; was charged with "arson, civil rights violations and destruction of a place of worship"; State ID# M140599

    "The Satanic Temple" in its own words

    An incomplete list of the ways The Satanic Temple has described itself for official purposes, such as court complaints, depositions, press releases, and internal documents, with each listed in reverse chronological order (most recent at top, earliest at bottom).

    Date Short Description Source Long Description
    5/03/2023 "a non-theistic religion, federally recognized as a church and a religious public charity" The Satanic Temple Inc. v. The City of Chicago (1:23-cv-02780) Plaintiff The Satanic Temple, Inc. is a religious corporation organized under the laws of Massachusetts and headquartered in Salem, Massachusetts. ... The Satanic Temple (“TST”) is a non-theistic religion, federally recognized as a church and a religious public charity. IRC §§ 170(b)(1)(A)(i); 501(c)(3). ... TST has more than half a million members located in every state (including Illinois) and internationally.
    4/05/2023 "a religious organization" United Federation of Churches LLC v. Johnson et al ("Queer Satanic II") Plaintiff United Federation of Churches, LLC (dba “The Satanic Temple”) (abbreviated “TST”) ... TST is a religious organization.
    3/30/2023 "a non-theistic, religious not-for-profit corporation" The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Saucon Valley School District (5:23-cv-01244) Plaintiff, The Satanic Temple, Inc., is a non-theistic, religious not-for-profit corporation with its principal place of business in Salem, MA. TST has more than 700,000 individual members, who are located in every U.S. state, including in Pennsylvania and within the SVSD. TST also has recognized congregations in every state, including in eastern Pennsylvania. TST has been recognized by the IRS as a church, as defined in the Internal Revenue Code § 170(b)(1)(A)(i), and as a religious corporation, as defined in the Internal Revenue Code § 501(c)(3).
    12/05/2022 "a nontheistic religion whose membership openly defies the authority of God and the Church" Satanic Temple v. TX Hlth and Human Svc (22-20459) The Satanic Temple, Inc. (“TST”) is a nontheistic religion whose membership openly defies the authority of God and the Church. ROA.23. To the congregants of TST, Satan deserves veneration as a revolutionary antihero who stood up against impossible odds to seek justice and egalitarianism for himself and others.
    11/23/2022 "a famous IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation" The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Jessica Snow

    (D-1-GN-22-006797)

    		The Satanic Temple, Inc., plaintiff, (“TST”) is a famous IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation with its principal place of business in Salem, Massachusetts. TST’s membership exceeds 560,000 and was recently the subject of the acclaimed film, “Hail Satan?”... TST’s membership can be found in every state, including Texas.
    9/30/2022 "a religious association" The Satanic Temple v. Little (1:22-cv-00411) Plaintiff The Satanic Temple (“TST”) ... is a religious association with its principal place of business in Salem, Massachusetts. TST has over 1.5 million members worldwide, including over 3,500 members in Idaho.
    9/21/2022 "a religious association" The Satanic Temple v. Holcomb

    (1:22-cv-01859)

    		Plaintiff The Satanic Temple (“TST”) ... is a religious association with its principal place of business in Salem, Massachusetts. TST has over 1.5 million members worldwide, including over 11,300 members in Indiana.
    2/25/2022 "a Massachusetts religious corporation" and "a famous IRS-recognized atheistic religious organization" The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Lamar Media Corporation

    (5:22-cv-05033)

    		The Satanic Temple, Inc. (“TST,”) plaintiff, is a Massachusetts religious corporation with its principal place of business in Salem, Massachusetts. TST is a famous IRS-recognized atheistic religious organization with an international following exceeding 540,000 and which was recently the subject of the film, Hail Satan? ... TST’s membership can be found in every State, importantly to include Arkansas and Indiana.
    2/16/2022 "an IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation which is organized" and "a private figure" The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Newsweek Magazine LLC

    (1:22-cv-01343)

    		The Satanic Temple, Inc. (“TST”), Plaintiff, is an IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation which is organized under the laws of Massachusetts and is headquartered in Salem, Massachusetts.

    ...

    TST is a private figure. TST is a private figure because it is not a household name.

    2/01/2022 "a famous IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation " The Satanic Temple, Inc., et al v. Young et al

    (D-1-GN-22-000560)

    		The Satanic Temple, Inc., plaintiff, (“TST”) is a famous IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation with its principal place of business in Salem, Massachusetts. TST’s membership exceeds 560,000 and was recently the subject of the acclaimed film, “Hail Satan?” ... TST’s membership can be found in every state, including Texas.
    1/03/2022 "an umbrella term for a religion" Cave v. Thurston

    (4:18-cv-00342)

    		“The Satanic Temple” is an umbrella term for a religion which is given legal structure by a constellation of affiliate entities. There is no entity named “The Satanic Temple” anymore because the errantly-named “The Satanic Temple” corrected its name to “The Satanic Temple, Inc.” See EXHIBIT 1 (articles of amendment, dated May 24, 2019, renaming the organization from “The Satanic Temple” to “The Satanic Temple, Inc.”)
    11/03/2021 "an atheistic religious corporation" St. Michael's Media, Inc. v. Baltimore et al.

    (21-2158)

    		The Satanic Temple, Inc. (“TST”) is an atheistic religious corporation with membership exceeding 530,000 throughout all 50 States and internationally.
    5/24/2021 “a religious organization” United Federation of Churches LLC v. Johnson

    (2:20-cv-00509)

    		Plaintiff United Federation of Churches (dba “The Satanic Temple” (abbreviated “TST”)…

    … TST is a religious organization.

    3/29/2021 "a religious organization" United Federation of Churches LLC v. Johnson

    (2:20-cv-00509)

    		Plaintiff United Federation of Churches (dba “The Satanic Temple” (abbreviated “TST”)...

    ...

    TST is a religious organization.

    2/05/2021 "a famous IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation with its principal place of business in Salem, Massachusetts" The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Hellerstedt

    (4:21-cv-00387)

    		The Satanic Temple, Inc., plaintiff, (abbreviated to “TST”) is a famous IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation with its principal place of business in Salem, Massachusetts. TST’s membership exceeds 270,000 and was recently the subject of the acclaimed film, “Hail Satan?”... TST’s membership can be found in every state, including Texas.
    2/04/2021 "an IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation with its principal place of business in Massachusetts" Satanic Temple, Inc., The v. City of Belle Plaine, MN

    (0:21-cv-00336)

    		The Satanic Temple, Inc., plaintiff, (abbreviated to “TST”) is an IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation with its principal place of business in Massachusetts. TST’s membership exceeds 200,000 and was recently the subject of the film, “Hail Satan?” ... TST’s membership can be found in every state, importantly to include Minnesota.
    1/31/2021 "a nonprofit religious corporation with no parent corporations" The Satanic Temple v. City of Belle Plaine, et al

    (21-3079)

    		Plaintiff-Appellant The Satanic Temple, Inc. is a nonprofit religious corporation with no parent corporations and no publicly held corporations own 10% or more of Plaintiff-Appellant’s stock. As a nonprofit religious corporation, Plaintiff-Appellant has neither stock nor owners.
    1/24/2021 "an infamous IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation with its principal place of business in Salem, Massachusetts" The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. City of Boston

    (1:21-cv-10102)

    		The Satanic Temple, Inc., plaintiff, (abbreviated to “TST”) is an infamous IRS-recognized atheistic religious corporation with its principal place of business in Salem, Massachusetts. TST’s membership exceeds 270,000 and was recently the subject of the acclaimed film, “Hail Satan?” ...TST’s membership can be found in every state, importantly to include the Boston metro area.
    9/27/2020 "an IRS-recognized atheistic religious organization" The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Lamar Advertising of Louisiana, LLC

    (04CV-20-2100)

    		Plaintiff The Satanic Temple, Inc. (“TST”)...

    ...

    TST, plaintiff, is an IRS-recognized atheistic religious organization with membership exceeding 100,000 and which was recently the subject of the film, “Hail Satan?”... TST’s membership can be found in every state, importantly to include Arkansas and Indiana, and internationally.

    4/10/2020 "not a discrete entity with tax returns" Cave v. Thurston

    (4:18-cv-00342)

    		TST’s objection was sustained except to the extent TST was ordered “the Satanic Temple to produce current bylaws, operating agreements, or analogous documents.” Order at p. 20 (emphasis in original). The order directs TST to confer with all parties for a reasonable protective order. Intervenors propose an attorney’s-eyes-only protective order with an obligation to delete the information following the entry of a final order, and all filings marked “confidential” and filed under seal.

    ...

    “The Satanic Temple” is not a discrete entity with tax returns. Intervenors thus have no responsive documents.

    4/03/2020 "a religious organization" United Federation of Churches LLC v. Johnson

    (2:20-cv-00509)

    		Plaintiff United Federation of Churches, LLC (dba “The Satanic Temple”) (abbreviated as “TST”)...

    ...

    TST is a religious organization.

    3/10/2020 "a tax-exempt religious organization" that "can also engage in for-profit commerce" Cave v. Thurston

    (4:18-cv-00342)

    		Q. Okay. So which -- which organization is the Intervenor, The Satanic Temple, in this litigation?

    A. It's The Satanic Temple.

    Q. Okay. The Satanic Temple, Inc.?

    ...

    A. To me the Intervenor is The Satanic Temple as a religious organization. This kind of paperwork is meant to justify different facets sometimes of The Satanic Temple. But to me it's all this larger religious body, this -- this organization of -- of The Satanic Temple.

    ...

    I don't even see those things as under any type of umbrella. These are -- and, you know, things like Reason Alliance and the United Federation of Churches are completely different to me than something like Cinephobia; because Cinephobia is representative of another project within The Satanic Temple. United Federation of Churches, Reason Alliance where more things, entities that emerged from consultation with either accountants or lawyers meant to help us better manage The Satanic Temple. But to me The Satanic Temple has always been this kind of one thing.

    Q. So and I'm -- I'm trying to understand how you understand this to work. So you claim that The Satanic Temple is tax exempt?

    A. No. It demonstrably is.

    Q. Okay. But when you talk about The Satanic Temple that includes organizations that are for profit and not tax exempt; right? You see the struggle I'm having?

    A. I -- I don't -- I don't see that as being -- I mean, I see plenty of religious organizations that operate in the same -- same manner, so it's not something to me that makes me think that this is something untoward or something questionable. ... there is a tax exempt religious organization of The Satanic Temple; but it can also engage in for-profit commerce, a online Web store or whatever else. And, you know, my understanding of it is that this is how you do those things, how you do those various things.

    9/26/2019 "a Massachusetts non-profit corporation" Cave v. Thurston

    (4:18-cv-00342)

    		TST is given corporate structure by “The Satanic Temple, Inc.” which is a Massachusetts non-profit corporation. To the extent the request seeks to discover information about members and agents of TST, the request is not proportional to the needs of the case because TST is a complex and international organization with local chapters dispersed throughout the world and whose leadership structure is in constant flux. The current membership of TST exceeds 50,000 individuals, many of whom participate in a leadership role for various charitable and religious activities.

    Compounding the difficulty of adhering to the request, individual participants of TST very often have pseudonyms to protect their safety. The volume of information sought is overwhelming and has no passable bearing on the questions of this case.

    Not only is the information sought onerous to procure in the first place, Rule 26 requires ongoing supplementation. Every time a volunteer steps down from–or steps up to–a leadership position would require a new supplement.

    ...

    The IRS letter was produced on September 5.

    8/30/2019 "a nascent religious organization" Satanic Temple v. Scottsdale, City of

    (2:18-cv-00621)

    		THE SATANIC TEMPLE, a voluntary group of persons, without an Arizona charter, formed by mutual consent for the purpose of promoting a common enterprise or prosecuting a common objective

    ...

    Principally, this amendment adds the various juristic bodies which, at various times, have given an organizational structure to the voluntary association of self-identified Satanists practicing under the moniker “The Satanic Temple.” Because their shared religious beliefs transcend the corporate form, and as a fallback should the Court find a fatal deficiency for any or each of the organizations, “The Satanic Temple” is reserved as an unincorporated association under Rule 17(b)(3)(A).

    ...

    The Satanic Temple (“TST”) is a nascent religious organization.

    ...

    TST is organizationally complex. On the international scale, TST is given structure through The Satanic Temple, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation. The Satanic Temple, Inc. has been formally recognized as a tax-exempt religious organization under IRC § 501(c)(3). At the times relevant to this litigation, TST was given structure through United Federation of Churches, LLC (dba “The Satanic Temple,”) a Massachusetts LLC.

    On the local scale, TST is given structure through local chapters. Sometimes, but not always, a local chapter organizes into a formal entity. Currently, the Arizona Chapter is given structure through Adversarial Truth, LLC (dba “The Satanic Temple – Arizona Chapter.”) At the relevant times of this litigation, the Arizona Chapter was simply “a voluntary group of persons, without an Arizona charter, formed by mutual consent for the purpose of promoting a common enterprise or prosecuting a common objective.”

    8/12/2019 "a Massachusetts religious corporation" and "a Massachusetts LLC" and "an Arizona LLC" Satanic Temple v. Scottsdale, City of

    (2:18-cv-00621)

    		The Court directed Plaintiffs to “file a short memorandum with the Court that explains what their intent is with respect to having the real party in interest appear in the case.” Doc. 48.

    Plaintiffs intend to join the following entities: The Satanic Temple, Inc., a Massachusetts religious corporation, The United Federation of Churches LLC, a Massachusetts LLC, dba “The Satanic Temple” and Adversarial Truth LLC, an Arizona LLC, dba “The Satanic Temple (Arizona Chapter).” For brevity, “The Satanic Temple” is shortened to its common moniker, “TST,” and interchangeably refers to both LLCs and the corporation.

    ...

    TST, both as the local Arizona chapter and the national organization, must separately prove their standing. The three entities are functionally interchangeable because they are associations of Satanists. For ease of reading, all are treated here.

    The three entities interchangeably referred to as “TST” are interrelated. Adversarial Truth LLC is the Arizona Chapter of The Satanic Temple. Michelle Shortt is the sole owner of Adversarial Truth LLC.

    United Federation of Churches, LLC (dba “The Satanic Temple”) is the predecessor entity to The Satanic Temple, Inc. United Federation of Churches is owned by two individuals residing in Massachusetts. This entity was in existence at the time of the events in question.

    The Satanic Temple, Inc. is an IRS-recognized “church,” complete with a 501(c)(3) ruling letter. Being a nonprofit corporation, The Satanic Temple, Inc., does not have “shareholders” as much as it had “organizers.” This entity was formed after the events in question.

    7/22/2019 "United Federation of Churches, LLC", which is "a tax-exempt organization" Cave v. Thurston

    (4:18-cv-00342)

    		Intervenors do not object to providing the current full legal name of The Satanic Temple. On information and belief, the full legal name of the organization is still United Federation of Churches, LLC.

    ...

    The Satanic Temple is a tax-exempt organization. The IRS letter relating to that status will be supplemented at a later time.

    4/25/2019 "a Massachusetts church" Satanic Temple, The v. Belle Plaine, City of

    (0:19-cv-01122)

    		Plaintiff TST is a Massachusetts church organized under section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. It holds weekly religious services at its headquarters in Salem, Massachusetts.
    11/08/2018 "a Massachusetts limited liability company" United Federation of Churches LLC v. Netflix, Inc.

    (1:18-cv-10372)

    		Plaintiff, United Federation of Churches LLC d/b/a The Satanic Temple (“Plaintiff” or “TST”)...

    ...

    Plaintiff TST is a Massachusetts limited liability company, with its principal place of business located at 64 Bridge Street, Salem, Massachusetts 01970.

    7/12/2018 "an organized religion" Cave v. Thurston

    (4:18-cv-00342)

    		The Satanic Temple is an organized religion.
    2/28/2018 "an association of politically aware Satanists, secularists and advocates for individual liberty" Doe v. Greitens

    (4:18-cv-00339)

    		Plaintiff is a member of The Satanic Temple, an association of politically aware Satanists, secularists and advocates for individual liberty.
    2/16/2018 "(DBA of UFC) Religious Organization (applied for 1023) whose members support campaigns based on tenets" TST Organizational Hierarchy and Structure (internal document) United Federation of Churches LLC: Registered The Satanic Temple as a trademark...

    The Satanic Temple (DBA of UFC): Religious Organization (applied for 1023) whose members support campaigns based on tenets. TST organizational structure outside of EM exists to support chapters and campaigns....

    Reason Alliance: Limited Partnership (LTD)...

    Sixty Four Bridge LLC: Museum/Gallery property owner...

    Salem Art Gallery: DBA for Sixty Four Bridge LLC

    ...

    SAG is a separate entity owned by Sixty Four Bridge LLC. It is decidedly not a chapter of The Satanic Temple. If it were a chapter, it would need a Chapter Head, Media Liaison and complete governance by NC. It is not in the best interests of 80% of the functions of the building for TST Salem to exist. It seems appropriate for merch, weddings, rituals and other TST initiatives to fall under the governance of EM. These aspects of the building make it TST Headquarters.

    ...

    For understanding this organizational structure in context, think of the five functions (headquarters, art, museum, venue, media) as separate tenants of SAG. They are all run differently and serve entirely different purposes. Understanding this will help us move forward coherently.

    2/16/2018 "has chapters throughout the United States and Europe" Satanic Temple v. Scottsdale, City of

    (2:18-cv-00621)

    		Plaintiff The Satanic Temple has chapters throughout the United States and Europe with over 50,000 members.
    6/23/2015 "an association of politically aware Satanists, secularists and advocates for individual liberty" The Satanic Temple v. Jeremiah Jay Nixon

    (4:15-cv-00986)

    		The Satanic Temple is an association of politically aware Satanists, secularists and advocates for individual liberty.
    3/24/2015 “an international religious organization” Freedom From Religion Foundation, Inc. v. Franklin County, Indiana

    (1:15-cv-00484)

    		The United Federation of Churches LLC d/b/a The Satanic Temple (“The Satanic Temple” or “TST”) is an international religious organization that is incorporated in Massachusetts and has its primary place of business in Somerville, Massachusetts. However, it has several chapters located throughout the United States.

    References

    1. ↑ CourthouseNews.com, "Satanic Temple sues Chicago", May 3, 2023. The Satanic Temple sued the city of Chicago in federal court Wednesday over its refusal to allow an ordained minister of the Satanic Temple to deliver an invocation before City Council meetings “without providing any clear explanation of why.” The Establishment Clause requires that the opportunity to deliver a legislative prayer be made available “in a non-discriminatory manner,” according to the lawsuit.
    2. ↑ CourtListener.com, Civil case dismissed with prejudice - Document #36, The Satanic Temple Inc. v. The City of Chicago (1:23-cv-02780), Northern District of Illinois.
    3. ↑ Facebook.com, Facebook update by Adam Vavrick July 8, 2024: "Left Job at Satanic Ministry - Minister of Satan"
    4. ↑ TST complaint filed Nov. 23, 2022
    5. ↑ SatanicEurope.Wordpress.com, analysis and interview with defendant.
    6. ↑ QueerSatanic.com, “The Satanic Housewife” videos and legal threat by The Satanic Temple
    7. ↑ The Satanic Temple v. Labrador, et al., 24-1243, in United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit; case opened March 1, 2024.
    8. ↑ CourtListener.com, Order on Motion for Leave to File AND Order on Motion to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim — Document #66, District Court, S.D. Indiana
    9. ↑ CourtListener.com, Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Todd Rokita (23-3247), Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit
    10. ↑ CourtListener.com, Satanic Temple v. TX Hlth and Human, Published Opinion — Document #69, Attachment #1, Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
    11. ↑ Matthew Kezhaya is listed as "Movant - Appellant" with "The Satanic Temple Inc." as Plaintiff and renamed after case was initially mistakenly captioned
    12. ↑ CourtListener.com, Attorney Matthew Kezhaya appeals an order of the district court* sanctioning him and his co-counsel under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 11. We conclude that there was no abuse of discretion, and therefore affirm the order.
    13. ↑ CourtListener.com, The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Lamar Media Corporation, Stipulation — Document #79
    14. ↑ Newsweek.com, Orgies, Harassment, Fraud: Satanic Temple Rocked by Accusations, Lawsuit by Julia Duin, Oct. 29, 2021
    15. ↑ QueerSatanic.com, Footnotes to Newsweek’s “Orgies, Harassment, Fraud: Satanic Temple Rocked by Accusations, Lawsuit” by @QueerSatanic, Nov. 4, 2021
    16. ↑ CourtListener.com, The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. Hellerstedt, Order — Document #67
    17. ↑ CourtListener.com, Satanic Temple v. Young (23-20329) in Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, filed July 10, 2023
    18. ↑ CourtListener.com, Order Granting Motion to Dismiss, July 3, 2023, without leave to replead.
    19. ↑ CourtListener.com, Final Judgment, July 3, 2023
    20. ↑ [https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/67601012/18/satanic-temple-v-young/ CourtListener.com
    21. ↑ CourtListener.com, Defendant’s motion for sanctions in Satanic Temple II, No. 21-cv-0336, (Dkt. 17), is GRANTED.
    22. ↑ 22.0 22.1 0:21-cv-03079, Case filed: Sept. 16, 2021, Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals for original case 0:19-cv-01122 ("Satanic Temple I"), consolidated with with 0:21-cv-03081, appealing original case 0:21-cv-00336 ("Satanic Temple II")
    23. ↑ UniversalHub.com, Judge rules Boston City Council doesn't have to let Satanists give an invocation if it doesn't want to, July 31, 2023
    24. ↑ CourtListener.com, Satanic Temple, Inc. v. City of Boston (23-1642), Court of Appeals for the First Circuit
    25. ↑ UniversalHub.com, Federal judge to Satanists and their lawyer, who tried to force Michelle Wu to spend Election Day answering their questions: Hell, no, April 6, 2022
    26. ↑ 04CV-20-2100 - Case Filed: Sep. 27, 2020; Terminated: Feb 26, 2021 via voluntary dismissal (without prejudice)
    27. ↑ Dallas Observer, "Satanists Posted a Dallas Billboard Advocating for Reproductive Rights: 'Abortions Save Lives!'" Dec. 22, 2020, In September, TST sued Lamar Advertising Co. for religious discrimination because it had refused to post the religious organization’s designs. The advertising giant denies the temple’s initial allegations, according to a TST press release. Although Goodwin can’t comment on the active lawsuit, she said TST ultimately struck a deal with billboard company Clear Channel Outdoor.
    28. ↑ Video of Oral Arguments to 20-15338 The Satanic Temple, Inc. v. City of Scottsdale
    29. ↑ Appeals Court Upholds Ruling Blocking Satanist Invocation in Scottsdale (AZ), by Hemant Mehta for Friendly Atheist
    30. ↑ United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit decision upholding lower court ruling
    31. ↑ Court of Appeals Docket #20-15338, District Court# 2:18-cv-00621-DGC, U.S. District Court for Arizona, Phoenix
    32. ↑ StarTribune.com, Satanic Temple lawsuit against Belle Plaine will move forward, despite court dismissal of most of its claims; 1 of 10 counts still remains in the Scott County battle over church and state, Aug. 4, 2020
    33. ↑ CourtListener.com, ORDER. IT IS HEREBY ORDERED: 1. Defendant's motion for summary judgment as to Plaintiff's promissory-estoppel claim in Satanic Temple I, No. 19-cv-1122 81 is GRANTED. 2. Plaintiff's motion to strike in Satanic Temple I, No. 19-cv- 1122 100 is DENIED. 3. The magistrate judge's January 26, 2021 Order in Satanic Temple I, No. 19-cv-1122 79 is AFFIRMED. 4. Defendant's motion to dismiss the complaint in Satanic Temple II, No. 21-cv-0336 10 is GRANTED. 5. Plaintiff 039;s motion to strike in Satanic Temple II, No. 21-cv-0336 29 is DENIED. 6. Defendant's motion for sanctions in Satanic Temple II, No. 21-cv-0336 17 is GRANTED. Within fourteen days after the date of this Order, Defendant shall file a mot ion and supporting evidence as to the attorneys' fees Defendant incurred responding to the complaint and seeking sanctions in Satanic Temple II, No. 21-cv-0336. (Written Opinion) Signed by Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright on 9/15/2021. Associated Cases: 0:19-cv-01122-WMW-JFD, 0:21-cv-00336-WMW-JFD (RJE)
    34. ↑ Courthousenews.com, By misappropriating TST Baphomet with Children (which is a registered copyright and famous mark of TST) to publish this false and defamatory depiction of TST, Defendants have engaged in three classes of wrong: copyright infringement (Claim 1) trademark violation (Claim 2), and injury to business reputation (Claim 3).
    35. ↑ 35.0 35.1 Netflix Makes ‘Amicable’ Deal With the Devil Over Sabrina, Bloomberg.com, Nov. 23, 2018, An attorney for the Temple, Bruce H. Lederman, told Bloomberg Law Netflix agreed within 10 days of the Temple’s suit to give the it (sic) copyright credit for the statute on all episodes that have been filmed.
    36. ↑ CourtListener.com, United Federation of Churches LLC v. United Federation of Churches LLC v. David Johnson, et al (23-35060)
    37. ↑ PacerMonitor.com, United Federation of Churches LLC v. Netflix, Inc. et al
    38. ↑ Arkansas Civil Liberties Union filed a complaint to begin the case 5/23/2018] on behalf of its clients, but The Satanic Temple and its clients made their motion to join as Intervenors 7/12/2018, beginning TST's involvement.
    39. ↑ "The Satanic Temple" was not named in the lawsuit as a plaintiff, but "Judy Doe" used the same attorney, W. James MacNaughton, who represented "Mary Doe" at a similar case in Missouri's State Supreme Court and the failed federal case for "Mary Doe"
    40. ↑ CaseMind.org, Motion to Dismiss: Granted Defendant. This matter seeking declarative and injunctive relief comes before the Court on Defendants' Motion to Dismiss Plaintiff's Complaint for failure to state a claim, [Doc. No. 17]. Plaintiffs seek (1) declaratory judgment that certain Missouri Statutes are void and (2) injunctive relief against Defendants' enforcement of the statutes. For the reasons below, Defendants' motion to dismiss will be granted.
    41. ↑ Federal appeals court axes Satanic Temple abortion lawsuit, AP, June 9, 2020. The U.S. 8th Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed a lawsuit Tuesday filed by a member of the Satanic Temple against a Missouri abortion law. ... An anonymous woman, Judy Doe, sued, arguing the law violates her religious freedom as a Satanic Temple member. The Satanic Temple doesn’t believe in a literal Satan but sees the biblical Satan as a metaphor for rebellion against tyranny. A federal district judge last year ruled against Doe, and the appeals court agreed.
    42. ↑ No. 19-1578, A Missouri law requires Judy Doe to certify that she has had a chance to review certain information before having an abortion. This requirement, she alleges, violates her Satanist beliefs. The district court dismissed both of her First Amendment claims, and we affirm. (PDF)
    43. ↑ CourtListener.com, Published Signed Opinion, Judy Doe v. Michael L. Parson (19-1578), filed 3/20/2019
    44. ↑ No. 20-385, Petitioner Judy Doe (“Petitioner”) moves, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §455(a), for the disqualification of the Hon. Amy Coney Barrett from consideration of the Petition for Certiorari, Case No. 20-385 (the “Petition”) due to her publicly expressed religious beliefs that a human being comes into existence at conception, abortion is murder and Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. 113 (1973) (“Roe”) was a “barbaric” decision that should “be put to an end.” (PDF)
    45. ↑ "Supreme Court Refuses to Disqualify Justice Barrett from The Satanic Temple's Abortion Case", Press release, Nov. 12, 2020
    46. ↑ 20-385, "Certiorari Denied" (PDF)
    47. ↑ SupremeCourt.gov, Motion by Petitioner for the Disqualification of The Hon. Amy Coney Barrett
    48. ↑ PRNewswire.com, Supreme Court Refuses to Disqualify Justice Barrett from The Satanic Temple's Abortion Case
    49. ↑ CourtListener.com, ORDER AND JUDGMENT: Judgment is entered in favor of Defendants on all of Plaintiffs' claims. Signed by Senior Judge David G Campbell on 2/05/2020. (REK) (Entered: 02/06/2020)
    50. ↑ Scottsdale wins court battle against Satanists over right to give invocation; Satanists appeal, Arizona Republic, Feb. 29, 2020. A U.S. District Court judge ruled this month that Scottsdale did not discriminate against the Satanic Temple when the city blocked a member of the group from giving an invocation before a City Council meeting in 2016. Judge David Campbell ruled the Satanic Temple did not prove the city had denied its request because of its religious beliefs. (AP summary)
    51. ↑ 16-3387, 08/28/2018 Open Document JUDGMENT FILED - The judgment of the Originating Court is AFFIRMED in accordance with the opinion. ROGER L. WOLLMAN, MICHAEL J. MELLOY and RAYMOND W. GRUENDER Hrg Sep 2017 [4698520] [16-3387] (AMT) [Entered: 08/28/2018 07:49 AM], US Eighth Circuit of Appeals
    52. ↑ 52.0 52.1 The Missouri Supreme Court dismissed on Wednesday a case brought by a woman who said the state’s abortion restrictions violated her religious beliefs. ... The case dates to 2015, when Doe’s attorneys argued her case in front of the Cole County Circuit Court. Circuit Judge Jon Beetem dismissed the case. Missouri's high court tosses case alleging abortion law violated Satanic Temple member's rights, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Feb 13. 2019
    53. ↑ WD80387, Because we believe that this case raises real and substantial constitutional claims, it is within the Missouri Supreme Court’s exclusive jurisdiction under Article V, section 3 of the Missouri Constitution, and we hereby order its transfer (PDF)
    54. ↑ Planned Parenthood, Satanic Temple score initial wins in abortion fight, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Oct. 3, 2017
    55. ↑ SC96751, Mary Doe appeals the circuit court’s judgment dismissing with prejudice her second amended petition seeking to enjoin the enforcement of the portion of the Missouri Informed Consent Law... This Court affirms denial of Ms. Doe’s request for injunctive relief. The informed consent law does not adopt any religious tenet, as Ms. Doe claimed. ...Moreover, the informed consent law neither requires a pregnant woman to read the booklet in question nor requires her to have or pay for an ultrasound. It simply provides her with that opportunity. .. The circuit court did not err in dismissing Ms. Doe’s petition for failure to state a claim. (PDF)
    56. ↑ OSCN.net, Footnote 8. One such request was from the Satanic Temple, who requested "a monument to Baphomet, which is a form of Satan, to be placed on the Capitol grounds." Record on Accelerated Appeal Ex. 4 (Deposition of Trait Thompson at 30). On December 19, 2013, the Commission minutes reflect Commission Chair, Trait Thompson, moved to put a moratorium on monument requests:
    57. ↑ FFRF/org, BREAKING: FFRF settles Satanic Temple discrimination lawsuit with Memphis-area school, July 18, 2024
    58. ↑ ACLU.org, Settlement Agreement, Nov. 16, 2023
    59. ↑ WFMZ-TV, Saucon Valley School District to pay Satanic Temple $200K in legal fees over After School Satan Club legal issue, Nov. 16, 2023
    60. ↑ ACLU.org, "ACLU Sues Saucon Valley School District for Prohibiting After School Satan Club from Meeting in District Facilities", May 1, 2023
    61. ↑ CourtListener.com, Order Granting Motion to Dismiss/Lack of Jurisdiction
    62. ↑ ChicagoTribune.com, July 10, 2019, Chicago man continues legal fight to bring his ‘emotional support’ pig to parks
    63. ↑ CourtListener.com, Order Granting Motion to Dismiss/Lack of Jurisdiction
    64. ↑ ChicagoTribune.com, June 5, 2018; Chicago man, self-described satanist, loses latest battle to remove 'In God We Trust' from U.S. money
    65. ↑ Justia.com, The Seventh Circuit affirmed the dismissal of his complaint, rejecting claims under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, the Equal Protection Clause, and the Free Speech, Free Exercise, and Establishment Clauses.
    66. ↑ Leagle.com, Dismissal order
    67. ↑ Courtlistener.com, Motion for extension to file notice of appeal denied
    68. ↑ PeninsulaClarion.com, Satanic Temple invocation prompts protest, walkouts at assembly meeting, June 18, 2019>
    69. ↑ CourtListener.com, ORDER. Plaintiffs' motion for summary judgment (doc. 31 ) is GRANTED. Defendants' motion for summary judgment (doc. 30 ) is DENIED. Bayview Cross violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, as interpreted by the Supreme Court and circuit precedent, and it must be removed within thirty (30) days. The City is ordered to pay damages to the plaintiffs in the amount of $1.00; and parties are directed to follow the local rules of this court with regard to attorney fees to which plaintiffs may be entitled. Signed by SENIOR JUDGE ROGER VINSON on 06/19/2017. (MB) (Entered: 06/19/2017)
    70. ↑ Casetext.com, No. 17-13025, Sep. 7, 2018. The City of Pensacola, Florida appeals a district court decision ordering it to remove a 34-foot Latin cross from a public park on the ground that the City’s maintenance of the cross violates the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause. Having concluded that we are bound by existing Circuit precedent, we find ourselves constrained to affirm.
    71. ↑ Justia.com, Case: 17-13025, Feb. 19,2020. Having reconsidered the case in light of American Legion, we conclude, as the Supreme Court did there, that “the Cross does not offend the Constitution.” See id. at 2090. For the foregoing reasons, we hold (1) that we remain bound by this Court’s decision in Rabun to conclude that plaintiffs have Article III standing to challenge Pensacola’s maintenance of the Bayview Park cross, but (2) that when American Legion—rather than Rabun (and through it, Lemon)—is applied, the cross’s presence on city property does not violate the Establishment Clause. REVERSED.Case: 17-13025 Date Filed: 02/19/2020
    72. ↑ United Federation of Churches LLC d/b/a The Satanic Temple was a plaintiff on the case, however, both it and the Freedom from Religion Foundation were represented by Gavin Minor Rose with the ACLU of Indiana
    73. ↑ IndyStar, "Satanic Temple lawsuit over Nativity scene dismissed", Dec. 31, 2015. As part of the settlement, the county agreed to let nonresidents apply for a permit, but they must have a local contact
    74. ↑ Thomas More Society, Settlement Agreement and Mutual Release of Claims
    75. ↑ Eagle 99.3 FM, "Lawsuit Settlement In Place For Satanic Display At Courthouse" Dec. 18, 2015. According to the settlement, Franklin County has agreed to amend its ordinance concerning displays at the courthouse within 30 days. The amended ordinance for the courthouse display permitting process will accept the designation of a local contact in lieu of requiring that sponsorship be wholly by citizens of Franklin County. Essentially, The Satanic Temple could put up its goat-head display at the courthouse if it finds a resident of Franklin County or any adjacent Indiana county (Dearborn, Ripley, Rush, Decatur, Fayette, or Union counties) willing to serve as that local contact. The contact must be a person who lives or works in Franklin County and assumes responsibility for the display.
    76. ↑ (CourtListener.com, 1:21-cv-02337, St. Michael's Media, Inc. v. The Mayor and City Council of Baltimore
    77. ↑ No. 21-2158, Amicus brief for The Satanic Temple, Inc. In support of St. Michael’s Media, Inc. Arguing for affirmance (PDF)
    78. ↑ CourtListener.com, Cave v. Thurston, Exhibit 12 - Satanic Temple Responses to Def.'s First Requests April 10, 2020
    79. ↑ CourtListener.com, Exhibit 14 - MCAD Complaint — Document #100, Attachment #14
    80. ↑ Flipcause.com, The Satanic Temple vs. Twitter. Support The Satanic Temple's fight against religious discrimination. ($5,649 Raised of $50,000)
    81. ↑ YouTube.com, High Priest Brian Werner resigns from The Satanic Temple, relevant portion at 6:59 - "I get an email from the lawyers accepting my resignation with an attached six page non-disclosure agreement. Really dude? After everything you and me have been through in the last three years? You've been a guest in several of my homes. You know my wife. I've been a guest in yours. You've embraced me and called me brother. You couldn't even pick up a telephone and tolk to me? You had to hide behind the lawyers. What is this, Scientology?"
    82. ↑ Twitter.com, @TheSatanicWiki posting The Satanic Temple's National Council Meeting Notes for Sept. 9, 2018. Relevant portion: "Legal letters have been sent to ex-CHs [Chapterheads] who have violated NDA [Non-Disclosure/Non-Disparagement Agreement] / AA [Affiliate Agreement] terms"
    83. ↑ QueerSatanic.com, “The Satanic Housewife” videos and legal threat by The Satanic Temple
    84. ↑ Michael Cassidy, a former congressional and legislative candidate, was set for trial June 3, but his attorney filed a guilty plea on his behalf to an aggravated misdemeanor count of third-degree criminal mischief. DesMoinesRegister.com, May 28, 2024
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