Off-Duty Pagan Officers Exempt from Work on Halloween and Summer Solstice Celebrations
In the heart of British society, a significant shift is underway as Pagan officers begin to find their place in law enforcement. The journey towards recognition for Pagan officers is ongoing, but there is hope that one day all paths, whether ancient or modern, will be honoured equally.
One such Pagan officer is Sergeant Andy Pardy, a follower of Norse Paganism who venerates gods such as Thor, Odin, and Freyr. His faith is not a whimsical or eccentric fad, nor is it a dark and sinister practice, as misconceptions about Paganism still exist. Pagan rituals, contrary to common misconceptions, are not characterized by dancing naked around fires. Instead, they involve chanting, music, meditation, and passages that echo through time, similar to prayer for Christians.
The Hertfordshire Police, where Sergeant Pardy serves, supports this diversity. Superintendent Simon Hawkins has implemented a policy that allows every officer to reallocate traditional holidays according to their personal faith. This policy has been warmly received, with Sergeant Pardy being granted the opportunity to observe eight sacred holidays each year, including Samhain, which marks the Pagan New Year and coincides with Halloween, and Litha, celebrating the longest day of summer.
The Pagan Police Association (PPA) in the UK serves as a support and advocacy group for officers, staff, and police volunteers who identify with Pagan and other earth-based spiritualities. The PPA works to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusivity for Pagan officers within policing services by providing pastoral support, raising awareness about Pagan beliefs and practices, advocating for fair treatment, challenging discrimination, and promoting diversity and religious freedom in the workplace.
While direct details about the PPA’s activities in recent months are not readily available, the general picture is that the PPA continues to play a critical role in supporting Pagan officers and advocating for inclusiveness and respect for spiritual diversity within UK law enforcement.
Despite strides towards acceptance, some Pagan officers report facing prejudice or being overlooked for promotions due to their beliefs. However, understanding about Paganism is improving, growing like wildflowers in spring, with each passing day and every conversation sparked by individuals like Sergeant Pardy. This policy has been positively received by various faith groups within the Hertfordshire Police, including Muslim and Jewish communities.
Sergeant Pardy recently met with officials from the Home Office to advocate for greater recognition of Pagan officers and their unique beliefs. His efforts, along with the work of the PPA, are instrumental in shaping a future where all Pagan officers can serve with pride, knowing that their faith is respected and valued.
- To further promote workplace wellness and health-and-wellness, Sergeant Andy Pardy advocated for the recognition of Pagan holidays within the Hertfordshire Police, enabling officers to observe eight sacred holidays annually.
- In the realm of business and diversity-and-inclusion, the Pagan Police Association (PPA) consistently works to champion understanding, acceptance, and inclusivity for Pagan officers in policing services, raising funds for events and developing resources.
- With the financial support of corporate wellness and workplace diversity programs, the PPA aims to address ongoing issues faced by Pagan officers, such as prejudice in the workplace and limited opportunities for professional advancement, paving the way for a more inclusive future in law enforcement.
