Hundreds Rally in Dublin for Trans Rights Amidst Women’s Speech Controversy, Ireland

Hundreds of campaigners gathered in Dublin today for two opposing rallies—one advocating for transgender rights and the other claiming that women are being silenced in discussions about trans rights. The Let Women Speak event, held at Merrion Square South, featured activist Kellie-Jay Keen (also known as Posie Parker) and Graham Linehan, creator of Father Ted. This event was met with a counter demonstration organized by Trans and Intersex Pride Dublin, which assembled outside the Dáil before marching to Merrion Square. At the counter demonstration, leading pro trans rights activist Jenny Maguire addressed the crowd, highlighting the challenges faced by the queer community and asserting that trans people are here to stay. The presence of a large number of Gardaí (Irish police) and metal barriers helped maintain a separation between the two groups. The issue of trans rights has become increasingly contentious in Ireland, with protesters targeting library staff over the inclusion of LGBTQ+ children’s books. This movement has been influenced by similar activism in the UK and the US.