Le Droit Humain
The Order is founded on the ancient teachings and traditions of Freemasonry, using Masonic ritual and symbolism as its tools in the search for truth.
On a collective level it works "to unite men and women who agree on a humanist spirituality whilst respecting individual and cultural differences".
[4] The three most commonly referenced figures in the history of the British Federation are Annie Besant, Maria Deraismes and Georges Martin.
[9] Besant was installed as the first Right Worshipful Master of the lodge and in her address stated "If it is true to say that it was the English who brought Freemasonry to France, then it is the French who, today, bring it back regenerated to England, completed and strengthened by the admission of women into the Lodge at the side of men.
[14] However, by 1936 the headquarters was transferred to 10 Ladbroke Terrace, also in London, to reflect the increasing size of the Federation and necessity of a larger space.
[15] Finally, in 1992, the Federation headquarters moved to its current address at Hexagon House, 37-39 Surbiton Hill Road, Surrey.
[18][19] However, this Order began to see its own disputes over use of the Royal Arch side degree, which came to a head in 1913 with the formation of The Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons.
This was based on a perceived decrease in the British Federation's emphasis on spirituality, with this new order choosing to re-emphasise this aspect of esoteric and 'inner working' Freemasonry.
[21] All of these splinter groups have belief in a Supreme Being as a requirement for membership, meaning that none of them recognise the British Federation they originate from as a regular Masonic body.
At the grassroots level, the National Convention is held annually with all members above the grade of Entered Apprentice entitled to vote on issues.
Meetings are also attended by the Most Puissant Grand Commander (MPGC) of the British Federation who is the representative of the Supreme Council of the Order and must hold the 33° of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.
[26] The stated aim of the Order in general, and thus the British Federation, is to use symbols to seek truth, both about the world and the individual.
[32][33] Annie Besant received special dispensation to require a belief in a Supreme Being in her ritual, contrary to the international Order and the Liberal Masonic tradition.
After the coup d'état of 28 May 1926 the dictatorial regime Estado Novo forbade masonry in the country and the order faded away.
[38] Le Droit Humain is in mutual amity with the following Orders (meaning recognition is reciprocal and members can intervisit):
