On December 16, 2014, Scotland passed the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act, marking a historic moment for equality. This legislation allowed same-sex couples to marry for the first time, bringing Scotland in line with England and Wales, which had already legalized same-sex marriage earlier that year. As Scotland celebrates a decade since this transformative law was enacted, we reflect on how it has reshaped the nation’s landscape.
A Historic Milestone
The act was passed following years of campaigning by equality groups, with the first same-sex marriages taking place just after midnight on December 31, 2014. Since then, 10,138 same-sex couples have married in Scotland, a testament to the success of the law in providing equality for all citizens.
Nicola Sturgeon, then First Minister, called the act one of Holyrood’s five most important achievements. The Scottish Parliament voted overwhelmingly in favor of the bill, with 105 MSPs supporting it and only 18 opposing. The change was hailed not only as a victory for LGBT+ rights but also as a reflection of Scotland’s progressive stance on human rights.
The First Weddings
Among the first to marry under the new law were Susan and Gerrie Douglas-Scott, a couple who had been together for 18 years before their wedding. Their ceremony in Glasgow was attended by their friends Nicola Sturgeon and Patrick Harvie, both prominent advocates for LGBT+ rights.
Gerrie and Susan’s wedding was a significant moment in their lives, marking a journey from fear of losing their children because of their sexuality in the ’90s to openly celebrating their love in front of family and friends.
“It really was about Scotland being a fairer place, a more equal place, acknowledging our human rights,” Gerrie said, reflecting on the profound personal and political significance of their marriage.
The Political Impact
For many politicians, the act wasn’t just about policy—it was deeply personal. Nicola Sturgeon, who attended Susan and Gerrie’s wedding, recalled the emotional moment when they were married. “It was a reminder that all politics is personal,” she said, emphasizing the transformative effect of the law on the lives of countless couples across Scotland.
Patrick Harvie, Scottish Green Party co-convener, echoed this sentiment, underscoring that the law sends a powerful message to younger generations that their relationships are equally valued.
A Decade of Change
Over the past decade, same-sex marriages have taken place across all 32 of Scotland’s local authorities, with the highest numbers recorded in Edinburgh (1,853), Glasgow (1,402), and Dumfries and Galloway (1,379). The summer months, particularly July, August, and September, remain the most popular for weddings.
However, the story of same-sex marriage in Scotland didn’t end with the 2014 legislation. While the Church of Scotland took eight years to permit its ministers to conduct same-sex services, the smaller Scottish Episcopal Church made the change in 2017. The Catholic Church, however, continues to oppose the change and does not recognize or perform sacramental marriages for same-sex couples.
Still, the wider acceptance and recognition of same-sex couples in Scotland remain a milestone achievement for the LGBT+ community and advocates of equality.
Reflections on Equality
For Gerrie and Susan, both humanist celebrants, their marriage is not only a personal celebration but also an opportunity to support others who are starting their own journeys. “We’re history now,” Gerrie remarked, acknowledging the significance of their union both personally and politically.
As Scotland marks ten years of same-sex marriage, the lasting impact is clear. Not only has it changed the lives of couples like Susan and Gerrie, but it has also solidified Scotland’s place as a leader in equality and human rights.
