We could have women in the Masons.. if they joined as men
Grand Lodge talks on historic change
Freemasons in Scotland are to consider allowing women members for the first time – as long as they were men when they joined.
The secretive society have been male- only for centuries – but the Grand Lodge could be set to change their rules following similar moves south of the Border.
The United Grand Lodge of England have issued guidance to their 200,000 members that “a Freemason who after initiation ceases to be a man does not cease to be a Freemason”.
Their “gender reassignment policy” says anyone wishing to join must be male – but once admitted can remain a member as a woman.
Now Freemasons in Scotland look set to copy the move after confirming they are “considering the issue”.
J Euan Edment, grand secretary of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, said: “The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland, founded in 1736, is a gender specific organisation.
“It is therefore similar, for example, to a male professional football club which does not admit female team members.
“At this time the Grand Lodge of Scotland is considering the issue of individuals who became Scottish Freemasons prior to their change of gender and a statement will be issued when our internal procedures are complete.”
Following their policy change last month, Freemasons in England conf irmed formal greetings will continue to refer to a person as “Brother”.
It means a member who has transitioned from John to Jane Smith would be “Brother Jane” or “Brother Smith”.
Alternatives to the dress code could include a “smart dark skirt and top”.
It’s understood a senior judge who is a Freemason was asked to look into the legal implications of gender reassignment before a possible change in the rules.