I assert an assumption of non-parody when it comes to religion or religion like organizations.  I feel the burden of proof in this instance is met by Universities classifying student groups as religious as enough to soften the language.  That it was started as a joke, or that people all know - is not a valid argument when it comes to belief systems.   
 If I state it is my religion, and it is not a parody, that is all it should take.  see Joan of Arc.