Instances of the LGBTQ community’s symbiotic relationship with Satanic imagery have only become more pronounced in recent years, with one of the more recent examples being the Los Angeles Dodgers honoring the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence (SPI), a group of queer and trans individuals who utilize Christian imagery in provocative ways.
As part of efforts to “expose the forces of bigotry, complacency, and guilt that chain the human spirit,” the SPI, known for its motto, “Go and sin some more,” often parodies religious rituals and symbols.
This move comes amidst other instances where queer and trans figures publicly aligned with satanic symbols or ideologies.
For instance, Target’s partnership with queer designer Erik Carnell, who has become notorious for his merchandise calling for “transphobes” to be decapitated, and for advocating “Satan Respects Pronouns,” generated considerable attention. Carnell stated on Instagram, “LGBT+ people are so often referred to as being a product of Satan or going against God’s will, so fine. We’ll hang with Satan instead.”
For another prominent example, “nonbinary” singer Sam Smith dressed as Satan during the 2023 Grammy performance of Smith’s song “Unholy.” In 2022, gay rapper Lil Nas X depicted himself giving Satan a lap dance, ultimately taking the devil’s throne.
These instances suggest a discernible link between LGBT Pride and Satanism. From a Christian perspective, individuals are encouraged to conform to a divine order, a cosmic harmony. Satan, in Christian theology, rejected this order due to jealousy and pride.
In contemporary society, some LGBT+ activists and Satanists seem to share a similar disdain for traditional moral absolutes and religious doctrines. As Carnell stated, “If I believed in Satan, I’d have to believe in the Bible — and I consider myself an atheist.” The Satanic Temple, for instance, promotes seven “fundamental tenets” that enshrine bodily autonomy and freedom of self-expression.
This clash of worldviews is most conspicuous in discussions about sexuality. Many Christians believe homosexuality goes against God’s design for human sexuality, which is meant for procreation and pair-bonding. In contrast, many Satanists and members of the LGBT+ community outright dismiss these “antiquated” notions of sex, gender, and identity.
Some religious figures like the Jesuit priest Fr. James Martin maintain that Pride Month should be celebrated as an expression of self-dignity, rather than a rebellion against religious norms.
However, the modern gay rights movement has significantly evolved from its origins. The movement initially aimed to secure societal acceptance and protection against discrimination for homosexuals. Today, however, it demands a complete affirmation of all forms of sexuality as morally and legally equivalent.
As such, some view the modern Pride movement as an assertion of individual autonomy and self-determination in defiance of traditional norms, which they liken to Satan’s rebellion against divine order. The association of LGBT+ Pride with satanic symbolism, many argue, is more than coincidental; it reflects a religious claim of autonomy and self-determination.
