Reverend Jonathan Campbell has started a petition here : http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/carnival/e to stop the annual Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival, on the grounds that the "Word of God clearly prohibits any involvement in or support for the occult". We would like to remind Mr. Campbell that the "Word of God" is not enforceable under UK Law but the Human Rights Act of 1998 (Article 9) is. Article 9 references "Freedom of thought, conscience and religion", as follows 'Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief, in worship, teaching, practice and observance.' Furthermore, Mr. Campbell's comment that "Indeed, the death penalty was the punishment for anyone who practiced witchcraft" is at best highly offensive and at worst threatening. We ask that he withdraw his petition and apologise for his comments. The Satanist Community in Northern Ireland will continue to challenge any illegal discrimination and/or threats as ever through the proper legal channels.

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