Petition · past parliament · Home Office

Grant English and Welsh Pagans the same marriage rights as Scottish Pagans

Closed 1,391 signatures

What the petition asks

Change English and Welsh marriage laws to recognize traditional Pagan wedding ceremonies in particular the practice of handfasting as a legal act of marriage. At present we must instead travel over the Scottish border to wed in accordance with our ancient faith. This is unfair and discriminatory.
The prejudice and superstition that surrounds the over 53,000 Pagans in England today is very sad to witness. Many families have been practicing Paganism for generations, it is a long misunderstood faith that centers its beliefs in the natural world and doing only good. It is only the ignorance of others that prevents English pagans from being able to have equal rights in marriage. Legalizing Pagan wedding ceremonies will help to end the stigma that surrounds us, and give us the power to express our faith and worship freely.

Timeline

4 Sep 2020 Petition opened for signatures
4 Mar 2021 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 1,391
Status Closed
Department Home Office
Opened 4 Sep 2020
Closed 4 Mar 2021

Follow this petition

Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.

Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.