March 24, 2026

The decision by a Spanish Catholic association to continue excluding women from its Easter processions has reopened a debate about female involvement in such events and could lead to it being sanctioned by the central government.

Earlier this week members of the Brotherhood of Holy Week of Sagunto voted on whether to allow women to take part in the carrying of their float. This followed growing pressure for a change to a tradition that has been observed in the eastern Mediterranean town since the late 15th century.

The result of the vote was 114 in favour of the change and 267 against, ensuring that women, who are involved in other ways such as helping to prepare the garments of the men who carry the float, remain barred from taking part in the event itself.

 

A Spanish Catholic brotherhood in Sagunto has voted overwhelmingly against allowing women to participate in carrying the Easter float, maintaining a tradition dating back to the 15th century despite growing calls for change and gender equality; this decision has sparked criticism from activists who see it as a missed opportunity to modernize and could result in sanctions from the central government.

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