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St George’s Day Celebrations Highlight English Identity and Constitutional Debates

The Church of England moves the feast to April 28, but secular celebrations and political discussions on inclusivity and devolution continue on April 23.

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St. George's Day: History, significance, traditions, and more

Overview

  • The Church of England transferred St George’s Day 2025 to April 28 due to its liturgical rule barring saint’s days from Easter Week, though secular and political events still marked April 23.
  • Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and other leaders celebrated on April 23, emphasizing inclusivity in English identity and addressing far-right misuse of national symbols.
  • Public research shows three-quarters of people believe ethnic minorities can be just as English as white individuals, reflecting a shift toward broader definitions of Englishness.
  • Debates over national identity surfaced as figures like Suella Braverman and Konstantin Kisin questioned how many generations are required to claim Englishness, prompting pushback from Sunak.
  • Calls for an English parliament persist, with critics highlighting unresolved constitutional issues like the West Lothian Question and imbalances in devolution frameworks.