(Newser)
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When Florida Gov. Rick Scott approved a Senate bill allowing students to read inspirational messages at school assemblies and sports events, he probably wasn't expecting to get the Satanists on his side. But that's exactly what happened, as the Satanic Temple is championing the bill as a "defense of religious liberty" and is planning a pro-Scott rally Jan. 25 on the steps of his office to show its support, the Huffington Post reports.
Specifically, Senate Bill 98, which went into effect in July, requires school districts to permit such inspirational readings without interference. The bill was widely seen as a way of getting religion into the school system, and early drafts included the word "prayer." Satanists support it because, as they say in a press release, they embrace the "American freedom to practice our faith openly, allowing our Satanic children the freedom to pray in school." According to the Satanic Temple website, Satanists are concerned with patriotism, compassion, and family values.
