Dumfries and Galloway's LGBTQ+ community to hold demonstration of trans solidarity

The region’s LGBTQ+ community is to hold a demonstration of trans solidarity in Dumfries town centre next month.

The public show of support follows a move by the UK Government to block the Gender Recognition Bill (Scotland).

The legislation is designed to make it easier for trans people in Scotland to obtain legal recognition of their gender.

A member of the group stated: “It’s so important that we come together to show our support for trans people at this time in a way which emphasises that trans people’s identities are not a political matter for debate.

“This demonstration is about showing our love for our trans siblings is as strong as ever despite recent events and a consequential upswing in anti-trans hate speech online.”

The demonstration will take place at The Plainstanes in Dumfries on Wednesday, February 8, at 5.30pm.

The group arranging the event will also bring forward a charter for individuals to sign detailing several recommendations for the local council surrounding trans rights and awareness.

Examples of the recommendations include requesting that the local authority scale up signposting to ensure trans people know exactly where they can access safe, tailored professional support if they need it.

The LGBTQ+ community is also requesting that the council give assurances on the level of equality and diversity training being done across departments.