The Union of Students in Ireland / Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn (USI/AMLÉ) has issued a strong statement in solidarity with the Trans community in the UK following the UK Supreme Court’s regressive and draconian ruling to redefine the terms “woman” and “sex” in Britain’s Equality Act based solely on biological sex, disregarding legal gender recognition.
“This is another disgraceful attempt to remove Trans people from public life and suppress their identities,” the statement reads. “This decision is informed by UK groups that are explicitly anti-trans and who reject the legitimacy of transgender identities.”
The timing of the decision, USI/AMLÉ says, could not be worse. Trans people across the UK and Ireland already face severe challenges including limited access to healthcare and widespread discrimination.
“This is an attack on the right to self-determination. The UK Supreme Court has failed and caused harm to the LGBTQ+ community,” the organisation said. “The rhetoric surrounding this ruling will be remembered as an historic erosion of transgender rights – in the UK, in Ireland, and globally.”
Speaking on behalf of USI/AMLÉ, Niamh Kennedy, Vice President for Equality and Citizenship, said: “This decision is a devastating failure by the UK Supreme Court to uphold the rights and dignity of the LGBTQ+ community. As the UK is Ireland’s closest neighbour, we can’t ignore how this could influence laws and policies in our own government. USI/AMLÉ will continue to advocate for Trans people in Ireland and fight to ensure that similar archaic laws do not arise here.”
USI/AMLÉ reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for Trans rights, access to healthcare, and the safety of all LGBTQIA+ people across Ireland.
“They deserve to be respected, valued, and protected – and AMLÉ will continue to amplify Trans voices,” the statement continued.
The organisation also warned of broader consequences:
“Not only does this ruling affect transgender people, but it may also have serious implications for intersex individuals and those who are gender non-conforming. Across the world, we are witnessing a rise in transphobia and attacks on civil liberties. We must stand strong together against this tide and reaffirm our collective commitment to the freedom of self-determination.”
ENDS