The federal court in Richmond today declared unconstitutional the Chesterfield County policy that did not allow a self-declared witch to give the invocation at a Board of Supervisors meeting.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Dennis W. Dohnal said the policy that limits religious leaders eligible to give the invocation to those of the Judeo-Christian tradition violates the Establishment Clause.

But he delayed imposition of his order that the county drop the policy in case county leaders decide to appeal.

Dohnal ruled in a lawsuit filed by Cynthia Simpson, a follower of the Wiccan religion who had asked to have her name placed on the list of volunteers to pray at the beginning of a meeting. She was refused.


Chesterfeild News