ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

The Droit Humain

Le Droit Humain

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### History

The International Mixed Masonic Order "Le Droit Humain" is a mixed Masonic organization created in late 19th-century France by Maria Deraismes and Georges Martin. It was founded on April 4, 1893, as the Grand Symbolic Lodge of the Right of Man, and later given its final name in 1901.

### Founding

The idea for Le Droit Humain was born out of a desire to create a Masonic organization that would be inclusive of both men and women. Maria Deraismes and Georges Martin were instrumental in establishing the order, which was officially recognized as the world's first mixed Masonic obedience.

### Principles

Le Droit Humain is based on the principles of laïcité (separation of church and state) and the absolute freedom of conscience for each individual. The order rejects any connection to social status, race, or philosophy, and its members are free to hold their own beliefs without interference from the organization.

### Structure

The order has undergone structural evolution since its founding in 1893. In 1901, it was officially recognized as an international mixed Masonic obedience with a global vocation. Today, Le Droit Humain is one of the largest and oldest mixed Masonic orders in history, with a presence on a geographical level that spans the globe.

### Philosophy

Le Droit Humain is based on the ancient philosophy and traditions of free intelligence. The order uses ceremonies and symbols from free construction as tools for improving and promoting humanity. Its members are committed to the principle of independence from any institution or religious organization, and they respect the absolute freedom of conscience of each individual.

### Recognition

Le Droit Humain is recognized as a mixed Masonic obedience that accepts women and men on an equal basis. It is not affiliated with any particular social status, race, or philosophy, and its members are free to hold their own beliefs without interference from the organization.