Six inmates at Woodbourne Correctional Facility in New York have filed a lawsuit against state correction officials. They argue that the upcoming solar eclipse, scheduled for April 8, is a “religious event” they have the constitutional right to observe. The eclipse is expected to draw millions of onlookers as the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow over some parts of the United States.
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The plaintiffs, representing a diverse spectrum of religious beliefs including a Baptist, a Muslim, a Seventh-Day Adventist, two practitioners of Santeria, and notably, an atheist, contend that the eclipse holds significant religious importance for them. They argue that observing and reflecting on the eclipse is essential for exercising their faiths, a sentiment underscored by the lawsuit filed last Friday, as reported by the New York Post. The dispute concerns the state’s decision to impose a lockdown at a correctional facility during the solar eclipse. This prevented the inmates from participating in any outdoor gathering, ceremony, or prayer. The lawsuit claims this action violates the inmates’ constitutional rights to practice their religions freely.
Legal documents also referenced religious texts such as the Bible and Islamic scriptures, which depict eclipse-like phenomena during pivotal moments in religious history. Sharon Steinerman, a senior associate at Alston & Bird, the law firm representing the inmates pro bono, emphasized the eclipse’s universal appeal and significance. The legal team is pushing for the lawsuit to achieve class-action status, thereby extending the opportunity for other affected inmates across the state to join the cause. Their goal is a court mandate compelling the State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to allow inmates the freedom to witness the eclipse.
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State officials have previously announced a system-wide lockdown to coincide with the eclipse, citing concerns over security and operational logistics amidst anticipated traffic snarls in upstate areas. Responses to requests for religious accommodation have varied, with some inmates reporting outright denials or lack of acknowledgment from the state.
“On April 8, 2024, NYS will be at the center of a total solar eclipse which will impact all DOCCS facilities with some level of darkness during this event. However, twenty-three facilities fall directly within the path of totality and will experience total darkness, rangi\ng from approximately one and a half minutes to approximately three and a half minutes. For facilities in the path of totality, visitation will be canceled and publicized on the Department web page; visitation at all other facilities will end at 2:00 p.m.”
Amidst this legal battle, Daniel Martuscello III, the department’s acting commissioner, stated that solar eclipse safety glasses would be distributed among staff and inmates, permitting them to view the event from within their work or housing units. However, outdoor activities during the critical viewing hours will be strictly prohibited.