We the undersigned are writing to express our dismay that writer and academic Germain Greer has been booked to talk at Salisbury Arts Centre on Friday 7 July 2017.

This is due to Greer’s outdated, hateful and misogynist “views” towards trans women and the trans community. She has delivered expletive-riddled diatribes against women who she views as lesser, and reduces all women to their genitalia again and again – something which stands against all inclusive, modern feminist principles.  

Violent speech against trans women has no place in Salisbury – a city many queer and trans people call home – and by booking Greer to appear, you legitimise her hateful rhetoric as a valid opinion. It is not a valid opinion, it is hate speech. Booking her to talk about the environment does not “challenge” these views, it legitimises and even finances them. Greer has herself stated she has little desire to be challenged on these views, and has restated her dangerous rhetoric in the face of resistance time and time again.

Trans women suffer disproportionate levels of violence, mental health issues and stigma. We urge you to cancel her appearance at the earliest possible convenience and make a stand against transphobia in Salisbury.