Renowned trans activist and model, Munroe Bergdorf, delivered a passionate speech during London Trans+ Pride, taking aim at the Conservative government for perpetuating a moral panic surrounding the lives of transgender individuals. Addressing the thousands gathered at the event, Bergdorf emphasized the current “sinister moment in history” faced by the trans community, where their rights are once again exploited for political gain, serving only the ruling class.
With eloquence, Bergdorf voiced concerns about the human rights, well-being, dignity, and bodily autonomy of transgender individuals being disregarded in the pursuit of fomenting a senseless culture war, devoid of empathy and understanding. She highlighted how truthful narratives have been replaced by abstract lies, scientific guidance substituted with media sensationalism and religious evangelicalism, and a genuine understanding of difference overshadowed by irrational fear and knee-jerk opinions.
Transphobia and the Struggle for Freedom
Bergdorf underscored the severity of the situation, asserting that the lives of trans people hang in the balance, as transphobia should no longer be seen as the status quo. Urging allies to join the fight, she emphasized that the freedom to express and be oneself should be protected for all. Bergdorf implored the trans community and their supporters to resist the “crisis of apathy” perpetuated by the Conservative government’s relentless efforts to roll back protections for trans people in the UK.
The Power of Solidarity and the Path to Change
In a rallying cry, Bergdorf urged trans individuals and allies to unite in the face of pushback, acknowledging that progress often encounters resistance. She emphasized the significance of standing hand in hand, arm in arm, to counter the Tory government’s attempts to undermine their cause. Describing the London Trans+ Pride event as a transformative moment, Bergdorf emphasized the importance of love and understanding within the community, while allowing room for growth and learning from mistakes.
Munroe Bergdorf: A Trailblazer in Advocacy
Munroe Bergdorf’s activism spans over a decade, encompassing not only fighting for trans rights but also combatting racism and white supremacy. In 2017, she made history as the first openly trans model for a L’Oréal UK campaign, and in 2022, she became the first out trans woman to grace the cover of Cosmopolitan UK. Bergdorf’s determination to advocate for the trans community is resolute, as she recently voiced her refusal to live under an authoritarian government intent on reducing trans people to second-class citizens.
London’s Trans+ Pride resonated with powerful speeches from influential figures like artist and community organizer June Lam, radical trans liberation activism group Transgender Action Block, representatives from the Trans Workers Solidarity Network, and Trans Prisoner Alliance CEO Sarah Jane Baker. Together, they demonstrated the collective strength and resilience needed to confront the challenges faced by the trans community and to forge a path toward progress.