»After 193 Years Londons Male Garrick Club Opens To Women
After 193 Years, London’s Male-Garrick Club Opens To Women
The historic Garrick Club in London, a private members' club founded in 1831, has chosen to accept women as new members. After 193 years as a men-only establishment, the decision was made.
The historic Garrick Club in London, a private members’ club founded in 1831, has chosen to accept women as new members. After 193 years as a men-only establishment, the decision was made. During a private members’ meeting, there was a tight vote in which nearly 60% (59.98%) supported lifting the gender ban.
Reportedly, there was a two-hour-long debate about admitting women, with notable people including actor Stephen Fry and journalist James Naughtie supporting the move. Although the meeting’s specifics are still under wraps, it was verified that 562 members voted in favor of permitting female members, with 375 (about 40%) voting against it.
This action represents a substantial change for the esteemed club, which has long faced criticism for its lack of gender diversity. With women in it, it will become a much better club, a member said. It was a very courteous debate.
Theater director and Women of the World Foundation founder Jude Kelly said she felt humiliated each time she was asked to the club for theater-related events. She said that she is glad that men who were previously comfortable with the club being men-only have thought again and decided that they are now uncomfortable with that arrangement.
These clubs were established as hangouts for those with exclusive access. This is not your typical boys-only cricket club or all-girls picnic. This location maintained the dominance of men.