Trans women are women; transphobic gender bill is abhorrent  

21 May  

Auckland Women’s Centre today expressed support for the trans women in its community, and condemned the government’s transphobic gender bill in the strongest possible terms. 

“Trans women are women, and the Auckland Women’s Centre sees and feels the pain of those who have been directly targeted, by ongoing threats and attacks,” said Centre manager Maia Hall. “We are deeply angry at those in power who are doing the opposite of empowering our trans and gender-queer whānau with protection and respect.” 

“This bill is a direct attack on gender-queer whānau, and it will also have a negative effect on cis women. Any policing of gender is an excuse for authorities, predators and misogynists to police all women’s appearance and behaviour and identity. 

“This is an abhorrent attempt by patriarchal politicians to divide our communities. It’s douche bros giving themselves the right to judge and interfere in women’s lives, and it is not ok. It will incite violent bullying and abuse of gender-diverse people and cis women, and it is appalling. 

“We are proud to stand in support and solidarity with humanity in all our diversity – as the vast majority of Aotearoa New Zealand is.  

“We stand in support of trans people, trans rights and the rights of all women, trans and cis, and communities to live in safety and freedom from gender discrimination. 

“We call on all government politicians to vote against this irresponsible and extremist bill.” 

-ends- 

Auckland Women’s Centre has previously spoken in favour of trans rights eg here.