Christ Church Students' Union stands in solidarity with our trans students, staff, LGBTQIA+ community and allies who are concerned and distressed by events within our CCCU community and the world at large including the outcome of the Supreme Court Ruling. We share concern at the widespread implications and how this will affect our trans student community.
The UK Supreme Court has ruled that the terms “woman” and “sex” in the Equality Act 2010 refer to a biological woman and biological sex, meaning that the legal definition of a woman under the Equality Act does not include transgender women who hold gender recognition certificates. The judgement also confirmed that the ruling does not alter the broader protections against discrimination afforded to transgender individuals under other parts of the Equality Act.
We acknowledge that this ruling is deeply upsetting and will impact many people in the Christ Church community. We want to express our sadness about how this is adversely affecting students at Canterbury Christ Church in particular, where events which purport to be for academic freedom are alienating and causing distress to communities already facing distress on a regular basis. Your Students’ Union will always remain a safe-space for trans students.
We are aware of the implications of the Freedom of Speech Bill, which requires institutions to uphold academic freedom and carries the risk of prosecution. However, our primary responsibility as a Union is to advocate for and protect all our students' well-being, including ensuring they feel safe, respected, and valued on campus. During the events that are due to take place, the Students’ Union will be open to provide a safe space for anyone who would like to use it. This is not to detract from the event or opportunities for discord, but provide an alternative space for those who do not wish to engage.
We stand with our trans communities and with all students who feel at times that Canterbury Christ Church University is not a space that supports their identity. We hope they always feel at home at Christ Church Students’ Union. Students can access the support via www.canterbury.ac.uk/our-students/ug-current/support-services/wellbeing-support