UK couples are taking the government to court over its failure to legalize humanist marriages, a move five years in the making. The high-stakes challenge could pave the way for humanist unions to be recognized nationwide.
Couples are taking the UK government to court over its failure to legalise humanist marriages, a move five years in the making.
Terri O’Sullivan and Edd Berrill from Coventry, and Nicole Shasha and Rory Booth from Leicester, are among those challenging the lack of recognition for humanist unions.
Humanist marriages are non-religious ceremonies that focus on the couple's love and commitment to each other.
These weddings often take place in secular venues, such as gardens or museums, and may be led by a humanist celebrant.
Humanist marriages emphasize personal values and relationships over religious doctrine.
According to a 2020 survey, 1 in 5 couples in England and Wales chose humanist ceremonies for their wedding.
This trend reflects a growing desire for more personalized and inclusive marriage celebrations.
For O’Sullivan, who was raised as a Jehovah’s Witness but left after years of abuse, humanist marriage represents a positive alternative. ‘It’s insulting that we’ve got to try to prove our beliefs are valid to have them recognised,’ she said. ‘It makes me feel a bit emotional because it’s so important to us.’
Shasha, who is also a humanist funeral and wedding celebrant, agrees that the lack of recognition is an issue of fair treatment for everyone.
A humanist marriage is a union between two individuals based on shared values, principles, and love.
It emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, trust, and communication in a relationship.
Humanist marriages often involve personalized ceremonies that reflect the couple's individuality and commitment to each other.
According to a 2020 survey, 1 in 5 couples in the UK chose a humanist wedding ceremony.
Humanist marriages are recognized as legally binding in many countries, including the UK, Australia, and Canada.
Humanism, a non-religious worldview that emphasises human agency, is not currently recognised under marriage laws in England and Wales. However, it is legal in Scotland and Northern Ireland, as well as in other parts of the world.
The high court ruled in 2020 that the lack of recognition for humanist marriages ‘gave rise to discrimination,’ with Mrs Justice Eady stating that the then justice secretary, Robert Buckland, could not simply sit on his hands.
Humanism is a philosophical and ethical stance that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings.
It originated in ancient Greece, particularly with the works of philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.
Humanism focuses on 'human dignity' , individualism, and the pursuit of knowledge and happiness.
The Renaissance saw a resurgence of humanist ideas, influencing art, literature, and science.
Today, humanism continues to shape modern thought, emphasizing empathy, compassion, and the importance of 'human experience' .
The government is expected to announce plans this year for an overhaul of marriage laws, which could allow weddings to take place at a variety of venues. However, humanists are calling on the government to move quicker to legalise humanist ceremonies.
Andrew Copson, chief executive of Humanists UK, said that expensive legal action was not necessary and that humanist marriage could be made legal within weeks at no cost.
The fight for humanist marriage recognition is not just about humanism, but about equality and fair treatment for all individuals.
Booth, who co-runs a humanist group in Leicester with Shasha, said: ‘I think sometimes people can assume that [humanism] is a vague ephemeral thing.’ The couple’s case highlights the importance of representation and opportunities for non-religious individuals.
The outcome of this court case will be closely watched by humanists and equality advocates. If successful, it could pave the way for humanist marriages to be recognised in England and Wales, bringing the country in line with other parts of the world.
