In Belfast, two separate transgender-related events took place near Donegall Quay, with police keeping two opposing groups apart. One of the events was a Let Women Speak rally, where the controversial activist Kellie-Jay Keen spoke against some transgender rights. Meanwhile, a counter-event was held by local LGBTQ+ groups and activists who opposed Keen’s views. The police presence was significant, but both events ended without incident, and no arrests were made.
One of the attendees of the Let Women Speak rally, Margaret McMinn, highlighted the importance of raising awareness about issues around women’s spaces. She said that there was a huge assumption that womanhood could be given up, and that women should have access to women’s facilities and same-sex care. Another attendee, Marianne Stewart, said that the rally was an attempt to get politicians to listen to their concerns.
On the other side, the counter-protestors emphasized the importance of the transgender community’s right to exist freely. One of the participants, Sam, said that it was essential to be visible as a trans person and show that they are not something to be afraid of. Another participant, Ben, stressed that transgender people are not infringing on the rights of others and that trans rights do not lessen the rights of anyone else.
Caleb, another counter-protestor, noted that many people are unaware of transgender people in their lives. He said that the transgender community is unassuming and includes brothers and sons, people you see down the shop or on the street.
The events in Belfast highlight the ongoing debate around transgender rights and the struggles that the transgender community still faces in gaining acceptance and understanding.