Transgender women decided to make a bold statement outside of Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh on Saturday, May 17. The protest was a response to the recent supreme court ruling regarding the legal definition of a woman. Approximately 200 protestors gathered at Holyrood to express their discontent with the Scottish government’s perceived lack of action on the issue. The transgender women stood topless outside parliament, with red painted right arms, tape over their mouths, and white roses in hand, symbolizing their solidarity with anti-fascist feminists in Europe and their belief that transgender rights in the UK are under threat.
Sophie Molly, one of the demonstrators who helped organize the event, shared her thoughts on the Supreme Court Ruling and EHRC Interim Guidance, labeling it as “a real setback for bodily autonomy.” She emphasized that the ruling wouldn’t just impact transgender women but all women. Despite the serious nature of the protest, Molly described the atmosphere as joyous, filled with resilience and determination. The group also received support from pro-Palestine campaigners, showcasing a united front of solidarity. The protest came in the wake of Pride Edinburgh’s decision to suspend political parties from participating in this year’s pride march in response to the ruling. Political parties will not have the usual platform to speak or engage with attendees, a first in the event’s history.
Not really sure why this matters, but the decision to exclude political parties seems to reflect a growing frustration within the community over the lack of meaningful action from those in power. Pride Edinburgh has taken a bold stance by choosing to prioritize the voices of the LGBTQ+ community over political affiliations. The suspension of political parties from the 2025 event sends a clear message that the community demands more than just lip service when it comes to advocating for their rights. This move highlights the importance of grassroots activism and community solidarity in the fight for equality and representation. The protest and Pride Edinburgh’s decision are powerful reminders that marginalized groups will not stay silent in the face of injustice and will continue to push for progress and recognition.
