Tensions in Lyon Over the Visit of a Militant Accused of Transphobia

Tensions in Lyon Over the Visit of a Militant Accused of Transphobia

A Controversial Conference

Marguerite Stern, a militant known for her controversial views on transgender identities and co-author of the book Transmania, is holding a conference this Thursday, September 19, at Lyon’s ISSEP. The event, provocatively titled “How Transgender Ideology Destroys Lives,” has sparked strong opposition from several activist groups. A significant police presence has been deployed around the school, while about twenty attendees were present at the event, co-hosted with Dora Moutot.

Protests and Opposition from Activist Groups

Organizations such as SOS Homophobie, Planning Familial, and Solidaires gathered in Lyon to voice their disapproval of Marguerite Stern’s presence. They argue that her views are dangerous to the transgender community. Aurore*, a member of the Organization for Trans Solidarity in Lyon, explained: “Marguerite Stern’s positions are not harmless. Her rhetoric is dangerous and, in fact, deadly,” citing two recent transfeminicides.

A Controversial Book

Since its release in April, the book Transmania has stirred heated debate. The authors criticize terms associated with transgender identities, describing what they call a pervasive “transmania.” SOS Homophobie has filed a lawsuit, claiming that certain passages could amount to hate speech. In response, promotional posters for the book were removed from the streets of Lyon due to these concerns.

Activist Actions and Heightened Tensions

The night before the conference, three women were arrested while painting anti-Stern graffiti in Lyon. Additionally, the facade of ISSEP was found covered in slogans condemning transphobia, with messages such as “Keep transphobes out of our cities.” These incidents highlight the heightened tensions surrounding the militant’s visit.

A Feminism That Excludes Trans People

Marguerite Stern is frequently accused of supporting “Terf” (Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist) views, a feminist ideology that excludes transgender people. She advocates a biological definition of womanhood and identifies as a “femellist.” While criticized for aligning with far-right ideas, such rhetoric is gaining more visibility in French public discourse.

An Event Under Tight Security

Despite threats and the ongoing controversy, Marguerite Stern confirmed her attendance in Lyon. “I don’t cancel a conference because of threats,” she stated, adding that enhanced security measures, including a bodyguard, were arranged for her trip from Paris.

Source : https://boutique-lgbtqia.fr/tensions-a-lyon-militante-accusee-de-transphobie/