Liberal Democrat general election poster labelled ‘transphobia’ by activists
A general election poster for the Liberal Democrats has been called out as transphobic.
The party launched a major new advert attacking Theresa May last week, unveiled by party grandee Sir Vince Cable.
However, their choice of images has caused controversy among party activists and trans rights campaigners.
The contentious poster features Nigel Farage’s face superimposed onto Theresa May’s body.
A pearl necklace can also be seen hanging below Farage’s face.
The poster’s caption reads: “Vote her, get him”.
You don’t have to accept May and Farage’s extreme version of Brexit that will wreck the future for you and your family. pic.twitter.com/wBoNgCrx4F
— Liberal Democrats (@LibDems) May 20, 2017
Activists were quick to label the post transphobic.
Jennie Rigg, chair of the Liberal Democrats’ LGBT+ group, wrote: “Guys, this is bordering on transphobia, and it would make my job as chair of plus a lot easier of you didn’t do this sort of thing.”
Guys, this is bordering on transphobia, and it would make my job as chair of plus a lot easier of you didn’t do this sort of thing.
— ???️? Jennie Rigg ?️??? (@miss_s_b) May 20, 2017
When challenged by a party loyalist that the post was intended for humour, Rigg replied: “I’m not missing the humour, I just don’t find humour that picks on people who already have a suicide attempt rate of 50% that funny.”
I’m not missing the humour, I just don’t find humour that picks on people who already have a suicide attempt rate of 50% that funny.
— ???️? Jennie Rigg ?️??? (@miss_s_b) May 20, 2017
Catherine Baker, a university lecturer, wrote: “I wish progressives wouldn’t make posters that depend on disgust at seeing men’s features on a woman’s body/vice versa. This is transphobic.”
Many users disagreed, however, arguing the point it was attempting to make was not about gender.
It comes after Tim Farron refused to say whether or not he believes gay sex is a sin.
He eventually clarified his position, saying he did not believe it to be a sin but did think politicians should be allowed a private view.
Liberal Democrats aren’t the only party to have scandals since the snap general election was called for June 8.
