April 3rd 2024.
Six men currently serving time in New York state prisons are standing up for their constitutional right to witness the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8th. These inmates were initially offered special viewing glasses to witness this rare and significant event, but were later informed that they would not be allowed to do so. In response, they have filed a lawsuit against the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, arguing that their right to observe this ‘religious event’ is being violated.
The total solar eclipse, which will last for a brief period of time on Monday afternoon, is a natural phenomenon that is considered to be of great religious importance by many. It is a moment when the Moon blocks the Sun's face from the Earth, causing a period of darkness. The six prisoners, who come from five different religious backgrounds, believe that witnessing this event is essential to their faith and spiritual practice.
According to the complaint filed in federal court, the inmates at Woodbourne Correctional Facility in Sullivan County have each expressed a sincere religious belief that the solar eclipse holds significant meaning and must be observed in order to honor their faiths. This includes Jeremy Zielinski, who identifies as an atheist but still recognizes the importance of this event in bringing people of different beliefs together.
Zielinski had requested that the prison recognize the solar eclipse as a religious event back in January, and on March 5th, he was informed that the facility would provide him with viewing glasses to watch the eclipse. However, just six days later, the acting commissioner of DOCCS issued a memo stating that inmates would be confined to their housing units during the eclipse, which falls within their usual outdoor recreation time.
The six prisoners have their own individual reasons for needing to witness the solar eclipse. Zielinski believes it is crucial to his faith to observe this event with people of different beliefs, as it is a way to celebrate our common humanity and find common ground. Travis Hudson, a Baptist, believes it is vital to reflect on what Jesus may have seen before his death on the cross. David Haigh, a Seventh Day Adventist, also believes it is important to observe this event in connection with the experience of Jesus.
Jean Marc Desmarat, a Muslim, sees observing the solar eclipse and saying a special prayer as an integral part of his religious practice. Bruce Moses and Oscar Nunez, who both follow the Santeria religion, believe it is essential to witness the eclipse and make offerings or prayers to the moon and sun during this time.
The prisoners' lawyers are now urging a quick resolution to this matter, asking for a ruling before the end of the week. They argue that denying these inmates the opportunity to observe the solar eclipse on the grounds of security concerns is a violation of their constitutional rights. This rare event has not occurred in the US since 2017 and will not happen again until 2044, making it a truly special and meaningful experience for those who believe in its religious significance.
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