In a landmark decision, members of the Garrick Club, historically reserved for men only, have voted to open its doors to women for the first time in its 193-year history.
The pivotal vote, held on Tuesday evening, saw 60% of the club's 1,500 members support the long-awaited change.
Amid the distinctive atmosphere of the club's Covent Garden address, featuring a pale pink and green silk tie, members gathered to deliberate on the future of their exclusive establishment. The historical significance of this occasion was not lost on those in attendance, as the decision was welcomed as an important step forward.
After a two-hour session of impassioned arguments for and against the inclusion of women, prominent figures, including actors Nigel Havers and Stephen Fry, and former High Court judge Lord Sumption, expressed their support for the change.
The use of remote voting proved effective in mobilizing support, especially among younger members who were seen as supportive of reform. Despite attempts to block the vote through various amendments, the motion ultimately prevailed, signaling the end of the club's long-standing single-sex policy.
The decision comes amid increasing scrutiny of the club's practices, with recent resignations from prominent members and public pressure adding momentum to the push for inclusivity.
While some view the move as symbolic progress toward gender equality, others warn against seeing it as a transformative step. Critics argue that the change may only expand privilege to a select group of women, rather than addressing broader issues of social justice.
Freddie Sayers, editor-in-chief of the UnHerd news site, cautioned against the decision to bow to public pressure. “Clearly it doesn't matter to the world whether the Garrick Club accepts female members or not,” Sayers said. “What matters is the pattern by which centuries-old institutions decide their future in a panicked response to weak campaigns in the media. “Overall: big and not good,” he added.
However, the decision was met with widespread recognition of its importance, both within and outside the club's walls.
Rachel Reeves, a Labor councillor, described it as “progress” for women. “I couldn’t believe they still wouldn’t let women in in 2024,” she told LBC radio.
Although there is room for women-only shelters, hospital wards and prisons, the list of protected spaces should not include private members' clubs, she said. “I will not stand in queues to join but I think it is important that all clubs and organizations welcome men and women. “It is extraordinary that we are still having this discussion today,” she added.
Although opinions differ on the consequences of the vote, one thing remains clear: the Garrick Club's decision reflects a broader societal shift towards greater diversity and inclusion, setting a precedent for other organizations to follow suit.