CAPITOL HEIGHTS, Md. — Most after-school programs involve arts, crafts or exercise, but there is a nation-wide push from the Satanic Temple, to open an After School Satan Club.
The club has requested to present its curriculum to multiple schools across the country, including Bradbury Heights Elementary, in Capitol Heights, Maryland.
Families in the area have expressed concerns over the program.
A spokesman tells WUSA the club doesn’t actually believe in Satan, but just uses the “thought of Satan.”
The club says the after-school program won’t focus on the worship of the devil, but “critical reasoning, independent-thinking, fun, and free thought.”
The temple is open in its opposition to Evangelical Christian clubs in schools, in particular “The Good News Club.”
They said they are only targeting schools that have Christian based after school programs, for an alternative option for children.
“It’s an alternative, we want to provide an environment where we stimulate kid’s inquisitiveness,” said Heinrich Kaiser, spokesperson for the Satanic Temple. “Teach them about creative and critical thinking. And maybe introduce them to some music they may not be getting in school…considering those programs have been cut.”
Prince George’s County school board members are reviewing the proposal. They tell WUSA, parents ultimately choose what after school activities their kids participate in.
Here is a promotional video from the Satanic Temple about the After School Satan Club.
