Trans group reaches out to man who attacked trans woman
A Liverpool organisation for trans people has offered to speak with a man recently jailed for attacking a trans woman.
Ryan Kenny was jailed for 20 months for punching a trans woman who was on her way home from a support group meeting and stealing her make up. In-trust Merseyside, a group that tackles transphobia, has invited him to attend an education session to learn about the issues faced by trans people.
Anthony Griffin, a committee member for the group, told the Liverpool Echo: “He will have the opportunity not only to learn about trans people but also to understand the trauma that trans-people face on a daily basis just for being ourselves.
“Without education, this individual and others like him who share the same views will continue with their beliefs and behaviours – so I hope that he accepts the opportunity I am offering him.
“Many people view trans-people as targets for ridicule and abuse and as a result trans-people are at greater risk of isolation, suicide and self-harm.
“We have to educate society that trans-people are people – we are not freaks, deviants or perverts and should be treated no differently just because we are transgender.
The woman who was attacked by Kenny said: “I’d like to encourage other victims like me to report hate crime because saying or doing something violent or abusive to someone because of their gender identity is a serious crime.
“People who are perceived to be different still deserve to be treated fairly and with dignity and respect just like anyone else. I didn’t deserve to be subjected to verbal and physical abuse by Ryan Kenny so I decided not to put up with it and reported him to the police.
“I do understand why people feel scared or nervous about reporting a hate crime against them – I know I did – but I hope this case gives other victims a glimpse into what happens when you do find the courage to do it.”
She was praised by police for her bravery. Detective Inspector Phil Mahon, from Merseyside Police’s hate crime unit said: “It has taken a lot of bravery on her part to come forward to work with us and the Crown Prosecution Service to bring this aggressive, violent individual to justice.”
