School lifts Satanism ban

By James Gonser
Advertiser Urban Honolulu Writer

Restrictions on clothes and jewelry depicting Satanism have been removed from the Kaimuki High School dress code after a concern was raised that the restriction was unconstitutional.

Mitchell Kahle, president of Hawai'i Citizens for the Separation of State and Church, said an employee at the school asked him to notify principal Gary Oyama that the restriction could be seen as stifling religious expression. The reference to Satanism was quickly removed from the dress code on the school Web site. Student handbooks will be reprinted, Kahle said.

Kahle said the restriction violates both the First and 14th amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

"Of course, Satanism cannot be singled out like that, whether you agree with it or not," Kahle said. "It is a recognized religion in this country. Now if a kid comes to school wearing a piece of pentagram jewelry, which some wear just to be stylish, then they will not be subjected to expulsion from the school."

Oyama was not available for comment yesterday.

Greg Knudsen, communications director for the state Department of Education, said the issue will be referred to the attorney general for an opinion.

"The intent was to maintain a nondisruptive atmosphere on campus," Knudsen said. "They continue to outlaw references to gangs and drug culture."