Aug 14 - SHSG Say Divisive Approach Unwarranted At National Celebrations Boat Procession
The Secular Humanist Society of Gibraltar congratulates the SDGG initiative in organising the Boat Procession as part of the National Day celebrations, however they are not pleased pleased to note that there will be an unnecessary and divisive religious element as an integral part of the event.
A spokesman for the SHSG said: "We say divisive as there will be a blessing by a Roman Catholic priest, thus automatically excluding the almost 9,000 non-catholic Gibraltar residents among us.
"National Day is meant to be a celebration for the whole community – by adding this religious side to it (and from one specific religion) this causes an unnecessary division and leaves the non-Roman Catholics feeling alienated. Religion is a personal affair for those that choose it - we suggest that the religious part of the boat trip should be removed so that all Gibraltarians can unite in a celebration of our National identity."
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