A club revolving around a religion known as Satanism has started at AACC.

The club’s officers said they hope to create a safe space for students who choose to practice the often-persecuted religion.

“Satanists are one of the least-accepted and understood religions in America,” said Charlemagne, the club’s president. “With the presence of other religious groups on campus we felt that it made sense to provide community to the Satanists on campus as well.”

Those who practice Satanism do not worship the devil but focus on self-advocacy and activism, Charlemagne, a second-year computer science student, said.

The Student Government Association approved the Satanic College Club as an official student organization this fall.

“We do not believe in a literal Satan or God,” Charlemagne said. “Instead, we worship ourselves, choosing who we believe deserves our time and respect, while taking care of our own physical and mental health.”

The club’s vice president, first-year cybersecurity student Sasha Kotanko, explained the club’s goal is to and to stand against hate groups.”

Club members participated in an anti-hate sit-in outside Careers in early October.

“I think the name of it seems scary or unusual,” club adviser and English professor Sage Perkins said, “but it’s really not. It’s such a welcoming, open place to be who you are, whoever that is.”

Club members asked that students learn about the club before writing it off.

“Don’t take it at face value,” Kotanko said. “Try to genuinely hear what we have to say.