New York Inmates Sue Over Prison Lockdown During Solar Eclipse
Inmates in New York have filed a lawsuit against the state corrections department regarding the decision to lock down prisons during the upcoming total solar eclipse. The suit, filed in federal court in upstate New York, argues that the lockdown on April 8 infringes on inmates’ constitutional rights to practice their faiths by preventing them from participating in a religiously significant event.
Plaintiffs and Religious Backgrounds
The plaintiffs, consisting of six men with diverse religious backgrounds, are currently incarcerated at the Woodbourne Correctional Facility in Woodbourne. They represent various faiths including Baptist, Muslim, Seventh-Day Adventist, practitioners of Santeria, and an atheist.
Significance of Solar Eclipse
The complaint highlights the rare and significant nature of a solar eclipse in various religious beliefs. It mentions references in Bible passages and sacred Islamic texts that describe similar celestial events, emphasizing the importance of gathering, celebration, worship, and prayer during such occurrences.
Denied Permission and Response
While one plaintiff, an atheist, initially received special permission to view the eclipse, subsequent requests by four other plaintiffs were denied. Officials cited that the solar eclipse was not considered a holy day for their respective religions. The sixth inmate did not receive any response to his request.
Response from Corrections Department
The corrections department spokesperson, Thomas Mailey, mentioned that all requests for religious accommodations, including viewing the eclipse, are under review. The acting commissioner, Daniel Martuscello III, announced that state correctional facilities will operate on a holiday schedule during the eclipse, with restrictions on movement and visitation.
Viewing the Eclipse
Prisons in the path of totality will distribute solar eclipse safety glasses for staff and inmates to view the event from their designated locations. Communities in western and northern New York, such as Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Lake Placid, and Plattsburgh, are expected to have optimal viewing conditions during the eclipse.
Timing and Duration
The total eclipse is anticipated to occur around 3:15 p.m. in parts of New York, lasting only a few minutes as the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, momentarily blocking sunlight and creating a temporary night-like experience.
