Trans liberation
I am concerned about what appears to be a growing anti-trans sentiment among Friends. In the 7 February edition a YouTube channel called ‘Quakerology’ was promoted. This channel platforms transphobic ideas which should not align with Quaker ideals.
Biological sex is more complicated than a male/female binary decided by chromosomes. There are a number of different biological characteristics that can influence a person’s sex beyond chromosomes. More importantly, there are also intersex variations where a person is born with biological sex characteristics of both male and female. It is also possible to change some biological sex characteristics as is the case for many trans people.
Gender is a social construct that includes how a person perceives their identity and how the world views them. It is often interwoven with a person’s biological sex. Variation in gender can be seen in many cultures across history, and we still have so much yet to learn. Our language around sex and gender is still evolving as we come to appreciate the diversity in our human identities.
In line with our commitments to equality and justice, we should lovingly embrace our trans, intersex and non-binary friends and strive for a world that provides them with full liberation.
I understand that there are concerns regarding how this might impact on women’s rights. But I would argue that trans rights only strengthen the foundational elements of feminist theory: challenging biological essentialism and campaigning for an in-depth understanding of the harm of misogyny. Trans and non-binary people are living proof of the incompatibility of biological essentialism with the human experience.
Additionally, achieving a world where all individuals are equal regardless of sex or gender is a world without misogyny.
To my trans, intersex and non-binary friends: you are loved and valued for who you are.
Wren Argent
Carers
In Meeting, a Friend spoke of the staff working at Friends House. He spoke of them as carers, caring for our Society of Friends. They work very hard
Enforced cuts in Covid left huge gaps. For example: did you know we no longer have anyone to support our prison chaplains in their important and challenging work? Filling the holes is not easy, this Friend had ‘burnt out’ and resigned. So scarred by negative attitudes he had not been able to return to Meeting for Worship for fourteen months. He called out: ‘Who cares for the carers?’
Friends, our staff need our love and our prayers, not petty brickbats.
Hold our carers in the Light and celebrate their work.
Mary Penny
