Frequently Asked Questions

Contemporary Paganism is a family of religions and spiritual paths that honor the sacredness of the natural world and, in most cases, more than one deity. It includes Wicca, Druidry, Heathenry, and many other traditions. Read more in What Is Paganism?

No. Wicca is one Pagan religion, the largest and best known. All Wiccans are Pagans, but many Pagans are not Wiccan. Read more in What Is Wicca? and Earth-Centered Traditions.

No. Pagans do not believe in or worship the Devil, a figure who belongs to the teachings of other religions. Paganism and Satanism are unrelated. See Myths and Facts.

Beliefs vary. Many Wiccans expect reincarnation after a time of rest. Many Heathens speak of joining their ancestors. Many Pagans see death as a return to the cycle of nature. Belief in eternal punishment is not part of Pagan religion.

Many Pagans observe eight seasonal festivals called the Wheel of the Year: Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Litha, Lughnasadh, and Mabon. Some traditions keep other calendars. Dates and meanings are given in The Wheel of the Year.

The pentacle is a five-pointed star within a circle. Its points are commonly understood as earth, air, fire, water, and spirit. It is worn as a sign of faith and protection, especially by Wiccans. See Symbols and Their Meanings.

No. Pagan religions do not seek converts and regard other religions as valid for those who follow them. Pagan EdNet's materials and speakers explain. They never recruit.

Pagan EdNet is an educational and civil rights organization. We do not teach religious practice, and we cannot recommend teachers or groups. We suggest reading widely, taking your time, and being cautious of anyone who asks for money, secrecy from your family, or obedience.

United States law does not keep a list of approved religions. It protects sincerely held religious beliefs, whether the religion is large or small. Courts have treated Wicca as a religion since the 1980s, and Pagan religions are protected on the same terms as others. See Know Your Rights.

Federal law forbids employers with fifteen or more employees to fire, refuse to hire, or harass a person because of religion, and most states have similar laws that reach smaller employers. See Religious Rights in the Workplace.

You may ask for a religious accommodation, and your employer must grant a reasonable one unless it would cause undue hardship to the business. The time off need not be paid. Ask in writing and well ahead. A sample request is given in Religious Rights in the Workplace.

Generally yes, on the same terms as other students wear the symbols of their religions. A school may not allow other religious jewelry and forbid a pentacle. See Religious Rights in Schools.

A parent's religion alone is not a proper basis for limiting custody. Courts may consider religious practices only where harm to the child is shown. Standards vary by state, and you should consult a family law attorney early. See Family and Custody Matters.

Stay calm, write down what happened with dates and names, keep all documents, and find the written policy that applies. Then raise the matter in writing. The full list of steps is in What to Do If You Face Discrimination, and the Rights Desk can help.

Pagan EdNet is the working name of the Pagan Education and Dialogue Network, a nonprofit, volunteer-led organization founded in 2001. We provide public education, civil rights advocacy, and interfaith outreach for Pagan, Wiccan, and Earth-centered communities. See About Pagan EdNet.

No. We do not hold worship services, teach religious practice, or ordain clergy. Our volunteers come from many traditions, and we do not favor any of them.

No. The Rights Desk provides information, documentation, and referrals. It is not a law firm and does not give legal advice or represent anyone. When a matter needs a lawyer, we help you look for one. See The Rights Desk.

No. Our fact sheets, guides, presentations, training, and individual assistance are all free. We are supported by the gifts of individuals. See Support Our Work.

No. Anyone may use our materials, and friends of other faiths and of none serve as reviewers, advisers, and guest teachers. Some roles, such as Speakers Bureau presenter, call for personal experience of a Pagan tradition. See Volunteer.

Yes. We never disclose a person's religious identity without written permission, and this website uses no cookies or tracking. See our Privacy Policy.

Our educational materials are free to everyone, everywhere. Our rights guides and the Rights Desk deal only with United States law, so we are unable to assist with legal questions arising in other countries.

By email. Addresses for each program are listed on the Contact page. General questions go to info@paganednet.org.