Although both ceremonies are open to the elected, only the ecclesiastical has a place in the official program.
The humanities community has been refused a place for its ceremony in the program.
The tradition of the service dates back to 1848, the church has a constitutional special status for the state, and therefore the opening service has a special place in the official opening program.
This is the reasoning in a rejection letter from the Speaker of the Folketing, Henrik Dam Kristensen (S).
But it surprises front person in the Humanistic Society, Lone Ree Milkær.
– I think that is a strange reason. There will not be fewer rights for some just because you give some rights to others.
– It should be time for Denmark, which in other contexts says that we are a secular state, to allow for ceremonies and ceremonies in other ways, says Lone Ree Milkær.
She stresses that it is important for the association that the ceremony be recognized in line with the church.
The Humanist Society has held a non-religious opening ceremony every year since 2018. This is the first time the association is applying to become part of the Folketing’s opening program.
And it will not be a match the association escapes, says Lone Ree Milkær.
However, Henrik Dam Kristensen will not change his decision.
– It is good that alternatives are being offered – the members of parliament accept it as they wish – but the opening of the Folketing is a long-standing tradition, and I maintain that.
– The official part is fixed, and I intend that it should continue to do so, he says.
This year, 15 members of parliament have signed up for the ceremony, which takes place at Johan Borup University College by Frederiksholm’s canal.
That is less than in recent years, when about 20 members have passed.
The two events are staggered, so politicians can reach both if they wish.
Source: The Nordic Page