THE Province of Worcestershire Freemasons will be holding an open meeting on Thursday, February 22, where people can ask any questions they want to about the organisation.
The event has been organised as part of an ‘Enough is Enough’ campaign being run by the United Grand Lodge of England which it says is in response to its members being ‘singled out’ and ‘discriminated against’.
The meeting will be held between 11am and 1pm at the Masonic Library and Museum, Rainbow Hill, Worcester.
Provincial Grand Master Robert C Vaughan will answer anything he is quizzed on.
“We’re open and I shall be happy to talk about anything and to answer any questions people may have,” he added.
The United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) taking out adverts in national newspapers calling to discrimination of its 200,000 plus members.
Headlined ‘Enough is Enough’, the ad was a personal letter from Dr David Staples, Chief Executive Officer, which reiterates the organisation’s values and highlights how throughout its 300-year history when people have suffered discrimination, Freemasonry has welcomed them into lodges as equals.
Such is the frustration amongst members about the level of prejudice, Dr Staples has also written to the Equality and Human Rights Commission to make its case.
Dr David Staples, Chief Executive of UGLE, said: “This is a first for us, but necessary under the circumstances. For too long we have been unjustly singled out.
“We are an organisation whose whole tenet is about helping individuals become better people, with values of honesty, integrity and service to others.
“Membership of Freemasonry is not only positive for them as individuals, but also for society at large.
“Sadly, too many Freemasons have to exercise caution in response to prejudice and discrimination they fear they will face. We want the day when every Freemason can proudly declare themselves a member of our great and historical organisation without fear of retribution, suspicion or damage.
“We’re open and happy to talk about anything and today we are announcing a series of sessions up and down the country too and to answer any questions people may have. I am also welcoming any queries from individuals myself.”
