Recent media coverage relating to 'gender bias' and Morris dancing
Although the Morris Ring’s constitutional change came into effect in March 2018, there have been several recent examples of national media focusing on this without the necessary context we feel it requires to be fully balanced.
For clarity there are three Morris dancing organisations; The Morris Ring, Open Morris and the Morris Federation. Until 12 months ago, the Morris Ring accepted male only teams (with an exception for female musicians) whereas both Open Morris and the Morris Federation had male only sides, mixed gender teams and women's only sides.
The Morris Ring decided to change its constitution based on a vote from its male-only (at the time) member teams in 2018 in order to become an organisation that represents mixed, female-only and male-only sides.
This change was made to better reflect the more current societal attitudes held by the majority of those who take part in the traditional Morris pastime.
For balance, we’d like to highlight that sports teams are typically based on a single gender and not mixed (football, rugby etc) and this does not appear to draw any scrutiny or debate by comparison. We fully support those Ring member sides who wish to continue as men’s teams, just as we support those that have a women’s only or mixed membership.
Morris dancing is a hobby which is inclusive, makes significant contributions to local economies and is fantastic for one’s physical health and mental well-being – it is a lot of fun.
We hope that the media will focus more on the positives of Morris dancing, where friendships are forged and flourish based on a traditional English pastime, regardless of gender, age or background.
ENDS
For further information contact the Squire of the Morris Ring, Pete Simpson squire [at] themorrisring.org (subject: Press%20release)