A total solar eclipse will be visible in the US this Monday, but many prisoners will miss the event. Six inmates from a New York prison now want to fight in court to be allowed to witness the natural spectacle: they see their fundamental right to practice their faith violated.
When the moon moves between the sun and the Earth on April 8, the prisoners should actually be in their cells. The state corrections department ordered all prisons to be locked down during the eclipse. However, some prisoners currently serving a sentence at Woodbourne do not want to put up with this and are suing the authorities. “A solar eclipse is a rare, natural phenomenon with great religious significance for many,” the complaint said.
One of the plaintiffs is an atheist
The men have different beliefs. One is Baptist, one Muslim, one Adventist, two are members of the Santería religion and one is an atheist. The lawsuit alleges that religious texts describe a phenomenon similar to a solar eclipse, both after the crucifixion of Jesus and after the death of the prophet Mohammed’s son. They see the natural spectacle as an opportunity for believers to “gather, celebrate and pray,” the lawsuit explains.
One of the plaintiffs – the atheist – had already received special permission to observe the solar eclipse with glasses from the state of New York. However, this was taken away from him on the instructions of the judicial authorities. Four other claimants requested approval, but it was denied in all cases. Another said he never received a response to his request.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice confirmed it was currently investigating the claims relating to the event, but declined to provide further details. In mid-March, authorities ordered that prison exits should be regulated like public holidays: all prisoners must remain in their cells from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. The total solar eclipse will be visible in New York around 3:15 PM local time.
The last total solar eclipse was seen in the United States in 2017, and the next one won’t occur until 2044.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
