humanist wedding fight recognised law

<p>In light of a recent challenge against the law, Humanist marriages have once again gained the spotlight for a fight for equality.</p> <p>Model Laura Lacole is engaged to footballer Eunan O’Kane and they wish to have a humanist wedding.</p> <p>The issued the are facing is that Humanist weddings are not recognised in Northern Ireland or England and so couple then have to have a civil ceremony.</p> <p>The couple believes that they are being discriminated against. Whereas other couples of religion can have their wedding officiated in a civil ceremony or by a religious representative of their choice, humanists don’t have a choice but to have a civil in order for their marriage to be accepted in the eyes of the law.</p> <p>Ms Lacole made her points about why she was taking on the case “We can’t see how you can differentiate between any types of beliefs,” she said.</p> <p>“We think it should be recognised in Northern Ireland because there is a need for it.”</p> <p>“Whether we are a minority or a majority we should still be given equal rights.”</p> <p>Currently, Humanist weddings are legally recognised in the Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, Canada, Australia and some US states.</p> <p>Humanist weddings can take place anywhere. Indoors or out. There are no set scripts and each wedding is tailored to the couple’s individual needs, values and beliefs.</p> <p>The case is backed by Humanists UK, whose chief executive, Andrew Copson, said: “Religious people currently have the legal right to marry in a ceremony that reflects their most fundamental views of the world, but humanists cannot do likewise.”</p> <p>Current laws for religious ceremonies</p> <p>A religious wedding can take place at a chapel, churro or any other registered religious building.</p> <p>For non-Anglican Christina marriages and all other religious, the register office needs to be given 28 days’ notice before the wedding. Registered minister, priests and religious leaders can register marriages.</p> <p>Jewish and Quaker marries must also register 28 days before.</p> <p>Current rules for civil partnerships:</p> <p>There has to be some formal wording exchanged, but it can be added to if you wish.</p> <p>There are can songs, dancing and music – however, it cannot contain anything religious. Such as hymns, readings or bibles.</p> <p>There have to be 2 witnesses, and they have to sign the register along with you and your partner.</p> <p>If you feel that you’re experiencing discrimination in any way speak to one our team today on</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>