Co-Freemasonry, also known as Mixed Freemasonry or Mixed-Gender Freemasonry, is a branch of Freemasonry that admits both men and women as full and equal members. It shares many of the rituals, symbols, and philosophical aims of traditional, all-male Freemasonry but differs fundamentally in its inclusive approach to gender. The most prominent and historically significant Co-Masonic order is the International Order of Co-Freemasonry Le Droit Humain.
Origins and History
Co-Freemasonry emerged in France in the late 19th century, during a period of significant social and political change. Traditional Freemasonry at the time was exclusively male, and the idea of admitting women into lodges was revolutionary.
- Maria Deraismes (1828–1894): A prominent French feminist, writer, and lecturer, Deraismes was initiated into the Loge Les Libres Penseurs (Lodge The Freethinkers) in Le Pecq, France, on January 14, 1882. Her initiation was an exceptional event, a unique act by the lodge, and she was not subsequently allowed to join a regular Grand Lodge.
- Georges Martin (1850–1916): A French senator, municipal councillor of Paris, and Master Mason, Martin championed the cause of women's admission into Freemasonry.
- Foundation of Le Droit Humain: In 1893, Deraismes and Martin, alongside other Masons, founded the Grande Loge Symbolique Écossaise "Le Droit Humain" (Grand Symbolic Scottish Lodge "The Human Right") in Paris. This was the first Masonic obedience to officially admit both men and women on an equal footing. Its primary goal was to promote human rights and social justice, symbolized by its name, "The Human Right."
From its origins in France, Le Droit Humain rapidly expanded internationally, forming federations and jurisdictions across the globe.
Principles and Characteristics
Co-Freemasonry adheres to many core principles shared with traditional Freemasonry, including:
- Belief in a Supreme Being or Creative Principle: While not dogmatic, Co-Masonic lodges typically require a belief in a Supreme Being or a Creative Principle, often referred to as the Great Architect of the Universe (G.A.O.T.U.). Some lodges may interpret this broadly to include a variety of spiritual or philosophical perspectives.
- Moral and Ethical Development: Members are encouraged to strive for self-improvement, cultivate virtues, and act ethically in their personal and public lives.
- Brotherhood and Sisterhood: Emphasis is placed on universal human solidarity, transcending religious, racial, social, and national differences.
- Tolerance and Liberty of Conscience: Co-Freemasonry values intellectual freedom and encourages members to seek truth independently, without imposing dogmatic beliefs.
- Philanthropy: While not always as overt as some charitable organizations, Co-Masonic lodges often engage in discreet charitable work and community service.
- Symbolic and Allegorical Instruction: Like all Freemasonry, Co-Freemasonry uses symbolism, allegory, and ritual drama to convey moral and philosophical lessons.
Structure and Rituals
- Degrees: Co-Freemasonry typically works the three degrees of Craft (or Blue Lodge) Freemasonry: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. Many Co-Masonic federations also work the higher degrees, most commonly the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (up to the 33rd degree).
- Lodges: Members meet in lodges, which are autonomous units operating under the jurisdiction of a federation or grand lodge.
- International Order: Le Droit Humain is structured as an international order with a Supreme Council located in Paris, which oversees its various national federations and jurisdictions.
- Ritual Practices: Co-Masonic rituals are largely similar to those found in traditional male-only Freemasonry, often based on French or Scottish Rite traditions, adapted to be inclusive of both genders.
Recognition
Co-Freemasonry is generally not recognized by the mainstream, "regular" Grand Lodges of Freemasonry (e.g., the United Grand Lodge of England and its affiliates). The primary reasons for this lack of recognition are:
- Admission of Women: Regular Freemasonry maintains that membership is exclusively for men.
- Mixed Gender Membership: The presence of both men and women in the same lodge is contrary to the "Ancient Charges" and landmarks interpreted by regular Freemasonry.
- Liberal Interpretations: Some regular Grand Lodges also view Co-Freemasonry, and other "liberal" or "continental" Masonic bodies, as departing from traditional practices regarding dogmatic belief in God and the non-discussion of religion and politics within the lodge.
Despite the lack of recognition from regular Grand Lodges, Co-Freemasonry operates independently and maintains fraternal relations with other "liberal" or "adogmatic" Masonic obediences that also admit women or are otherwise not recognized by the mainstream.
Global Presence
Co-Freemasonry, particularly through Le Droit Humain, has a significant global presence with federations, jurisdictions, and pioneer lodges in dozens of countries across Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. It represents a distinctive and influential pathway for individuals, regardless of gender, to engage with Masonic ideals and practices.