In 2011 there is to be a Census in the UK. It’s time for Pagans of ALL paths to be counted.
In 2001 we were able for the first time, to write in our religious affiliation on the Census form. A campaign was started by a number of diverse groups to write Pagan in the ‘religion other’ section. Whilst in the main people did, we lost the individual path identity and some resented this. Furthermore, due to the way the Office of National Statistics counts religious affiliation responses, Pagans ended up having our number diluted across a number of categories. Even though many wrote Pagan, the campaign didn’t reach all Pagans. This means that every time we are asked the question ‘how many of you are there?’ we cannot come back with a simple answer.
This doesn’t need to happen!
The ONS wants to count us. They have a ‘mandate of inclusion’ which means they are looking for ways to include us in their figures. Looking at the raw data that was provided last time to us gave us some startling insights. However, as mentioned, by just writing Pagan on your form, we lose the data for various paths, and our diversity — but there is a simple solution — one that’s worked elsewhere.
In Australia in 2001 there were 10,000 Pagans in the census. Just 5 years later, with this initiative, their numbers are being counted as nearer 70,000. So if we can do the same here, and get more accurate numbers it will go a long way to getting the recognition we have fought for, and deserve.
All you need to do is put down your religion as:
Pagan — <insert your chosen path>
Some examples:
- Pagan — Druid
- Pagan — Wiccan
- Pagan — Witch
- Pagan — Heathen
- Pagan — Neo-Shaman
- Etc.
A number of Pagan Organizations, Groups and Magazines are already behind us. We can show strength through Unity with Diversity. Each of the Partners in this project have committed themselves to getting the message out to their membership, and to the wider Pagan public.
If you want to get involved just Contact Jon at admin@pagandash.org.