11 July 2020 11:00am–1:00pm
Eastern Gardens, Ryde
It was reported in the Sunday Times on 14 June 2020, that the UK Government intends to scrap the Gender Recognition Act reform and roll back the hard-won rights of trans and non-binary people.
In response to this a protest has been arranged in support of trans and non-binary rights. The event is being co- hosted by Sydney Cardew, LGBT+ Officer at the Isle of Wight Labour Party and Yve White BEM, Equalities Officer, IW Local Government Branch of UNISON.
The government is allegedly planning to introduce a law that will restrict the rights of trans women to use women’s facilities, such as public toilets, changing rooms and refuges. This will also impact on the rights of trans men, which appear to have been forgotten.
The protest is against this unworkable, unfair and dangerous plan; which will have a huge impact on the safely, dignity and wellbeing of trans and non-binary people. Trans and non-binary people have the right to live their lives without being in fear and being subjected to abuse and discrimination.
Mark Chiverton, Branch Secretary, IW Local Govt Branch, said “I am proud that the branch are involved with this very important protest. It is essential that we support our trans and non-binary community and ensure that they are not discriminated against.”
Yve White, BEM, Branch Equalities Officer and co-founder and ex-Trustee of IW Pride, said “There have sadly been a number of incidents of transphobia recently on the Island – this protest will give the trans and non-binary community the voice they need to show they are valid and will help to raise awareness of the issues they face on a daily basis”
Sydney Cardew, LGBT+ Labour Party Officer and co-host, said: “The trans community in the UK face many difficulties; there is a lack of timely access to medical care, and widespread problems with discrimination, exclusion and hate, in schools, workplaces and the community at large. We urgently need support and protection; not to be the target of discriminatory laws grounded in a toxic ‘debate’ about our very existence”.
We welcome everyone to take part in this protest which will take place on Saturday 11 July 2020 at 11.00am – 1.00pm in Eastern Gardens, Ryde – next to “Pride Beach”. This is a peaceful protest aimed at raising awareness and seeking support from the wider community. If you are coming along on the day, please ensure you bring some water with you, wear a face covering and ensure social distancing is respected. Further information can be found on the Facebook event page.
An open letter has been sent to various organisations and agencies, to allow people to add their name to show support.
