An Open Letter

Dear Local Members of Parliament and representatives of our community,

We, the organisers and communities behind Reading Pride and Newbury Pride, are writing to you with deep concern and dismay in response to the recent ruling by the Supreme Court regarding trans rights in the UK.

The judgement which effectively narrows the legal recognition and protections afforded to trans individuals, sets a worrying precedent that undermines the dignity, safety, and autonomy of trans people across the country. As organisations which exist to promote equality, inclusivity, and the celebration of LGBTQ+ lives we cannot stay silent in the face of decisions that erode hard-won rights.

This ruling does not exist in a vacuum. It comes at a time of increasing hostility towards trans people, stoked by misinformation, moral panic, and divisive rhetoric. The court’s decision risks legitimising these harmful narratives and it sends a message to trans people that their identities are up for debate rather than respected and protected.

We urge you, as the Members of Parliament who represent our local communities and public servants who have consistently supported LGBTQ+ rights, to stand with our trans community at this critical moment. We ask that you:
 1. Publicly affirm your support for trans rights and speak out against the Supreme Court’s decision.
 2. Advocate for clear and robust legislative protections for trans people, including their right to self-identification and access to healthcare services and spaces that align with their gender identity.
 3. Engage with trans-led organisations and LGBTQ+ groups to better understand the impact of this ruling and the urgent needs of our community.

Our trans siblings deserve to live in a society where they are free to be who they are without fear, without prejudice, and with the full protection of the law. We hope you will use your platform and your voice to ensure basic human rights are upheld.

In solidarity,
Reading Pride
Newbury Pride