How many LGBTQ+ people have actually wed since equal marriage was introduced?
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Equal marriage was finally introduced in England and Wales 10 years ago this week, in a historic moment for LGBTQ+ people – but how many couples have actually taken the plunge and tied the knot since then?
The first same-sex weddings took place on 29 March 2014, following the Marriage (Same-Sex Couples) Act coming into force in England and Wales, after a bill was approved by parliament the previous summer.
About 4,850 couples – 56 per cent female and 44 per cent male – had wed by the end of the year, figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show.
About 162,000 LGBTQ+ people have married in England and Wales since then, meaning that in total more than 165,000 queer people in England and Wales have tied the knot since equal marriage was legalized 10 years ago.
According to the figures, by the end of 2015 an estimated 26,000 people were thought to have been in same-sex marriages. The number continued to grow and by 2018 had reached almost 121,000, before hitting 167,000 last year, the London Evening Standard reported.
In Scotland, where same-sex ceremonies have been legal since 16 December 2014, the National Records of Scotland reveal about 367 marriages recorded that year.
In Northern Ireland, where the law came into effect a little more than four years ago, some 158 same-sex marriages took place in 2020, according to the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency.
Prior to the ground-breaking legislation gaining Royal Assent, activists lobbied tirelessly for equality.
The numbers reflect a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ rights in England and Wales. With over 165,000 queer people having tied the knot since the introduction of equal marriage, it is clear that the legal recognition of same-sex relationships has had a positive impact on the LGBTQ+ community.
The increase in the number of same-sex marriages over the years shows a growing acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ rights in society. The fact that thousands of couples have chosen to formalize their relationships through marriage demonstrates a significant step towards equality and inclusivity for LGBTQ+ individuals.
As we mark the 10th anniversary of equal marriage in England and Wales, it is important to celebrate how far we have come in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and recognition. The legalization of same-sex marriage has allowed thousands of couples to publicly affirm their love and commitment to each other, contributing to a more inclusive and accepting society for all.
The journey towards equality is ongoing, and there is still work to be done to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals are fully supported and protected in all aspects of their lives. However, the significant number of same-sex marriages that have taken place in the past decade is a testament to the progress that has been made in advancing LGBTQ+ rights and representation.
As we look towards the future, it is important to continue advocating for equality and acceptance for all members of the LGBTQ+ community. By celebrating the love and commitment of all couples, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, we can create a more inclusive and diverse society that values and respects the rights of every individual.
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