The Pluralism Project at Harvard University

History

Most of the practitioners in the region were initially in the “broom closet”, meaning they were not public about their Wicca beliefs or rituals. However, around the year 1980 many practitioners “came out” and a small group of solitary practitioners joined together to create the Magical Coyote Coven. The Coven then made connections with other solitary practitioners, and expanded into a larger group. Although the Magical Coyote Coven is primarily Wicca, there are also many other religions honored within the group. The Coven borrows elements of other faiths to help them connect with the divine in rituals and meditations. The group stresses its dualistic nature, worshipping the male gods and female goddesses in equal measure.

Challenges and Discrimination

Moscow, Idaho, where the Magical Coyote meets, is known throughout Idaho for its liberalism, and consequently, the group has not received much discrimination. Some rituals are “by invitation”, though they have two completely “open” circles each year to which anyone who is “Pagan Friendly” is invited.

Demographics

The Magical Coyote Coven includes families with young children, elderly citizens, adults and college students (from the University of Idaho and Washington State University). Members live in an area called the Palouse Empire, which encompasses Moscow, Idaho and Pullman, Washington, along with several very small communities within a 50-mile radius. Individuals must be 18 years of age or older, or accompanied by an adult, to attend prayer circles. English is the predominant language in the group, but Spanish is also occasionally spoken. The majority of Coven members are heterosexual, however there is one lesbian couple and two gay couples. Overall, the group views itself as very eclectic.

Activities and Schedule

The Magical Coyote Coven has four major open circles and four major closed circles each year. Additionally, there is one program and social activity monthly. Each month there is one teaching circle, which is open by invitation only. The Coven celebrates the major Wicca holidays, which include: Winter Solstice, Beltane (May Day), Summer Solstice, and Samhain (Halloween). The Coven is also able to provide Handfastings (weddings) as the ordained High Priestess is an Ordained Minister. All news regarding events and activities is distributed to Coven members through an E-List, managed by the High Priest and High Priestess and other elders in the Coven.

Description

When weather permits, The Magical Coyote Coven meets at an outdoor prayer circle that has been constructed on the property of a Coven member. During the winter, when weather is unsuitable for an outdoor circle, or when the group is too large for a private circle, the Coven meets in the Unitarian Universal Church in Moscow, Idaho. The Unitarian Universal Church has been helpful for the expansion of the Coven and allowing Wiccans to feel comfortable “coming out of the broom closet”, as they often organize interfaith events for the community and are welcoming to all religions.