Sweden, often recognized as a global leader in gender equality, is now facing a debate that challenges its progressive values.
Usually Walk Together
The country, known for its nearly gender-balanced parliament and leadership in the EU's gender equality index, is seeing a shift in wedding traditions that has sparked controversy within the Swedish Church, according to Ziare.
Traditionally, in Sweden's Lutheran Church, both the bride and groom walk to the altar together, symbolizing equality in marriage. However, a growing number of Swedish brides are choosing to be escorted by their fathers, a practice heavily influenced by Hollywood movies and global media.
This trend has brought back discussions about whether such a tradition aligns with Sweden’s commitment to gender equality.
Ban the Old Tradition
The debate gained momentum recently when a motion was introduced at the Swedish Church’s autumn meeting to ban the practice of fathers "giving away" their daughters at the altar.
Advocates for the ban argue that the gesture is a patriarchal symbol that does not reflect the church’s values or Sweden’s progressive stance on gender issues.
Sara Waldenfors, a pastor in Gothenburg who co-authored the proposal, emphasized that this practice is not a part of the Swedish Church’s tradition. "Even if the scene appears pleasant to the couple, we cannot overlook what it symbolizes: a father handing over his daughter to a new guardian," Waldenfors explained.
On the other hand, many within the church believe that the tradition allows families to participate more fully in the ceremony. Henrik Lööv, an official in Jönköping parish, noted that while the practice has gained popularity in recent years, it is still a choice exercised by only about 10% of couples.
