A controversial documentary that was due to be screened at the University of Edinburgh was cancelled for a second time after protestors clashed at the campus. A number of trans rights activists showed up to oppose the film ‘Adult Human Female’ being shown at the university’s Gordon Aitken Lecture Theatre on Wednesday.
The protestors blocked the entrances to the venue and appeared to stop folk from entering the space that was set to show the film. Supporters of trans rights at the university have continuously argued against the screening of the film, claiming that it endangers trans people by questioning their legitimacy to exist, reports Edinburgh Live.
The film, made by independent filmmakers Deirdre O'Neill and Mike Wayne, is billed as an "explainer about the issues, how far things have already changed for the worse for women and how difficult it has been to be heard, to be listened to".
Images from the event showed several trans activists with flags blocking the entrance to the screening, while those hoping to attend the film were denied access to the campus building. Video footage outside of the protest appeared to show a woman trying to get into the screening and accusing those protesting of denying her right to view the documentary.
This morning Cabaret Against The Hate Speech said on Twitter: "Last night we proved queer joy is one of the most powerful forms of activism. Thank you to everyone who made yesterday such a great success. You know who you are."
Britain's first transgender national television newsreader, India Willoughby, added: "Brave students have prevented another Klan gathering at Edinburgh Uni tonight, where the Gender Critical movement where planning to show a propaganda film depicting trans people as predators. Well done everybody."
A statement that was shared by those hoping to attend the event on Twitter read: “We are extremely sorry to have to tell you that tonight’s screening and discussion of Adult Human Female will not now go ahead. Protestors are currently blockading all entrances to the venue.
“The University security team have advised that there is no safe way we can get into the building, and the University have therefore advised that screening cannot go ahead this evening.”
Reality Matters, the production company behind the documentary, deny the film is transphobic insisting that "the only time the film contains 'transphobic language' is when one of our interviewees is criticising transphobia".
In a statement on Twitter last night, they said: "They've done it again. Our film screening is cancelled. They have occupied the venue. Freedom of assembly for women is dead at Edinburgh University. Anyone who is appalled by this please come down to protest."
The film also had to be cancelled in December after students blocked entry to the lecture hall.
At the time Reality Matters said on their website: "In record time, the trans movement has captured the big institutions. The police, the political parties, the media, the universities and major corporations have taken up the cause in the name of inclusiveness. But is it really harmless when men identify into the female sex?"
University bosses have previously been criticised for allowing the screening to continue.
A University of Edinburgh spokesperson told the Record: “At the University we are fully committed to upholding freedom of expression and academic freedom, and facilitating an environment where students and staff can discuss and debate challenging topics. We are disappointed that again this event has not been able to go ahead.
“In line with our commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive and safe environment for our whole community, we worked with the organisers and put measures in place to mitigate risks associated with the event. However, with protesters restricting access to the venue, safety concerns were raised should the event proceed. It was therefore decided that the screening should not continue.”
Reality Matters were contacted by the Record for further comment.
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