This past Sunday, April 27th, we joined the trans protest in Newcastle, to stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ community. The energy was fierce and full of love but also heartbreak and anger. We gathered in response to the latest court ruling in the UK that sets a dangerous legal precedent: stating that, in some contexts, trans women are not legally considered women. 

It tells trans women, once again, that their identities can be questioned, debated, and dismissed. That their womanhood is conditionally recognised. It’s unacceptable and undermines years of progress, sends a terrifying message to all trans (and queer) people across the UK: you are not safe here. But we refuse to be silent. We refuse to accept this. And Sunday proved that – we turned up in thousands. 

What was the court ruling? 

In April 2024, the UK Court of Appeal ruled that the term “woman” in the Equality Act 2010 can be interpreted in some legal settings to exclude trans women, even those with a Gender Recognition Certificate. This case centered on whether trans women could access spaces and legal protections designed for women, and the decision has huge implications for rights, access, and safety. 

This isn’t a minor technicality. It’s a judicial green light to deny trans women access to single-sex spaces, opportunities, and protections that all women deserve. And it gives cover to anti-trans rhetoric that already fuels discrimination, violence, and exclusion. 

What you can do to help 

This is a moment for all of us to stand up, not just trans people, but allies too. Here’s how you can take action: 

  1. Sign petitions challenging the ruling and supporting trans rights

 Call for a legislative review of the Equality Act to ensure inclusive definitions of womanhood. 

Sign the petition: Protect trans rights in UK law 

  1. Support trans-led organisations

Don’t underestimate the power of funding grassroots work: 

  1. Contact your MP

Tell them why this ruling is dangerous and discriminatory. Urge them to fight for truly inclusive legal definitions and protections for all women, including trans women. Use WriteToThem to make your voice heard. 

  1. Meaningful actions businesses can undertake
  • Adopt inclusive policies like gender-affirming healthcare, clear transition guidelines, and anti-discrimination protections. 
  • Foster a supportive culture through pronoun sharing, inclusive restrooms, and mandatory trans awareness training. 
  • Ensure representation by hiring, promoting, and visibly supporting trans people in leadership and marketing. 
  • Take a public stand by opposing anti-trans legislation and showing visible support during key advocacy moments. 
  • Support trans communities through donations, partnerships with trans-led organisations, and sponsorship of trans-centered events. 
  1. Speak up online and offline

 Challenge anti-trans narratives wherever you see them. Amplify trans voices. Share articles, personal stories, and educational content. Your visibility matters. 

  1. Educate yourself and others

 Understanding the lived experiences of trans people helps dismantle harmful myths. A few great resources: 

“The Transgender Issue” by Shon Faye 

“What the Trans!?” podcast 

Trans-led channels on YouTube and social media (look up creators like Jamie Raines and Juno Dawson) 

Why it matters more than ever 

This ruling doesn’t just affect policy, it affects all of us in the LGBTQ community. It tells trans women they are not real women. It emboldens those who seek to strip away rights under the guise of legal language and it puts vulnerable people at even greater risk. 

But we see you. We stand with you. This is a time for courage. For compassion. For collective action. 

Let’s rise together.