LGBTQIA+ organisations warn that this decision will only bring “harm”
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY GETTY IMAGES/CANVA
Girlguiding has announced that trans girls will no longer be allowed to join its scouting groups, including Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, and Rangers.
Announced yesterday (2 Dec), the organisation stated that they had made this decision following the UK Supreme Court ruling earlier this year. In this ruling, the UK Supreme Court announced its “unanimous decision” that the terms “woman” and “sex” refer to biological women and biological sex in the Equality Act 2010.
Girlguiding has stated that adult roles, such as administrative positions, will remain open to all genders.
As reported by the BBC, TransActual’s Tammy Hymas said: “It’s awful that an organisation, which would happily be inclusive and has been for many years, is being forced to exclude young trans girls.”
In 2017, the organisation allowed trans girls to join their scouting groups for the first time. TransActual added that “there is no problem being solved here, only harm being done.”
The restriction on trans girls joining will come into effect from now, but there will not be any immediate changes for current members. The organisation has said they will give more information next week.
A spokesperson from Stonewall said: “There should be nothing more important to a society than ensuring that all young people are safe, able to participate and can see themselves reflected in the world around them. We should want to teach young people about compassion, empathy and humanity, and that inclusion and kindness are important values.”
“Alongside many others, we await the EHRC’s new statutory guidance. We hope it is made clear how organisations can operate from the principle of inclusion rather than one of exclusion, in line with their values.”
Earlier this year, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) released its interim guidance following the UK Supreme Court ruling. Over 650+ businesses have called this guidance “unworkable”.
Love media made by and for LGBTQIA+ women and gender diverse people? Then you’ll love DIVA. We’ve been spotlighting the community for over 30 years. Here’s how you can get behind queer media and keep us going for another generation: linkin.bio/ig-divamagazine
Did you know that DIVA has now become a charity? Our magazine is published by the DIVA Charitable Trust. You can find out more about the organisation and how you can offer your support here: divacharitabletrust.com
