Trans rights are now more concerning than ever, as highlighted during the latest TransPride in London on July 8th. Trans individuals gathered to voice their struggles. Laz Lightning, a prominent transgender rights advocate, spoke with hesitation, saying, “My pronoun is…They/Them?” After a brief pause, Laz clarified that in Turkish, the pronoun “O,” a singular form of “They,” can be used universally. Despite laughing while speaking, their confidence seemed to waver.
London TransPride 2023: A March of Over a Thousand Trans Individuals
The Trans Pride march advocating for transgender rights took place in London, UK. First held in 2019, the event has since become an annual tradition, organized by a transgender-led community group. The march welcomes transgender people, non-binary individuals, gender-diverse groups, and their allies.
Amidst the march of over a thousand trans individuals and their supporters, voices were raised in solidarity to protest for their rights. Many participants spoke of their fears, unity, and the importance of community within the trans and LGBTQIA+ groups. The Pride march became a space to express their feelings, share messages, and demand recognition and equality. Here’s what they had to say about society today.
Laz Marches with the Harem of No One
Laz joined the Harem of No One, a group of drag queens and cabaret performers, during the Trans Pride march. For them, this group represents a safe space and a personal haven. The march holds profound meaning, as Laz emphasized: “We stand in solidarity with our siblings in Turkey and other places where Pride events are banned, and police violence erupts when people try to celebrate Pride. We are marching for those who cannot march safely, free from violence.” Jude and Delair echoed the sense of unity felt during the march. Jude remarked: “I’m here today because I’ve been to big Pride events, and they’re not what they used to be.” For many, Trans Pride stands as a powerful reminder of resistance and solidarity.
Jude Reflects on the Meaning of TransPride
- “It’s no longer about true political change… It feels like a walking billboard for corporations, especially in London,” Jude commented about mainstream Pride events. “I want to stand alongside people who genuinely seek change, and this is what Pride—or Trans Pride—is truly about.”
- Delair shared similar sentiments, saying: “Trans rights are more under threat than ever, and I’m currently navigating my own gender identity. Pride protests are crucial. The mainstream only celebrates when there’s profit involved, but it shouldn’t be that way. It should be about liberation, change, rights, and freedom for people. That’s why we’re here today.”
- Jude added, “Many people think we’ve already achieved our rights and that Pride is just a celebration. But in reality, trans people are still fighting for fundamental political freedoms. Everyone here is marching in solidarity with trans individuals. Not everyone in the community understands that we are not all equal. We don’t all have the rights and freedoms we deserve.”
The march stands as a powerful reminder that the fight for trans rights is far from over.
Heather, a Lesbian Standing in Solidarity at TransPride
“I’m here as a lesbian, and I think there’s a lot of media framing trans people and lesbians as being at odds with each other, but that’s just not true,” Heather shared. “The lesbian community stands in solidarity with the most marginalized members of our community, and I’m so proud to be part of this march. Most lesbians fully support trans rights, and we want to stand alongside trans people.” Heather’s words reflect a spirit of unity and resistance, emphasizing the shared struggles and support within the LGBTQIA+ community.
The story of T Southwell and coming out as Trans
T Southwell came out as Trans a few months ago. “Over the past several months, I have faced death threats, harassment, and verbal abuse, all happening publicly. I have been ostracized by my family. Being here in this march today, I am here for myself and to support others.”
T Southwell describes their sense of isolation, a feeling shared by many members of the transgender community.
“I’ve always felt lonely. I’m also a recovering addict, and this year, at the London NA (Narcotics Anonymous) conference, we had our first-ever transgender and non-binary meeting, which was amazing. I’m the secretary of an online 12-step recovery meeting called Gender Splendour, which is for people recovering from all kinds of things,” they said, emphasizing their desire to connect more with other transgender individuals.
Gender Splendour is a term used to celebrate gender diversity and identity. It conveys the idea of the elegance and beauty of gender, highlighting the diversity and richness of human gender expression. The term is often used as an alternative to Pride or Pride Month in celebrations of gender and sexual diversity during June. Its popularity has grown in recent years because it is seen as a more inclusive and expressive term, encompassing all forms of gender diversity rather than focusing solely on transgender individuals.
Heather’s friends have pledged their support. “I hope more people who are transitioning discover just how joyful it can be for trans people. It brings happiness, joy, and allows people to keep living,” she said.
“That’s what we’re fighting for today – healing lives and bringing happiness to people. There are no rules, just the real experiences of individuals, whether they are still with us or have passed on. We honor and stand for every transgender person,” Heather concluded.
Advocating for and raising awareness about the existence of the transgender community is something we must continue to support and promote. Listening to their issues fosters understanding among the majority, leading to acceptance free from prejudice and paving the way for equality. Supporting initiatives like TransPride is undoubtedly a positive step that deserves ongoing encouragement.