February 12th 2025.
According to a recent YouGov survey, nearly half of the British population believes that a trans person should have the right to socially transition. This includes being able to live their life according to their chosen gender identity, which may involve taking on a new name, using different pronouns, changing their appearance, and dressing in a way that aligns with their gender identity. However, campaigners are concerned about the growing number of young people and women who are opposing trans rights.
The YouGov findings, released yesterday, show a significant increase in anti-trans views since the last survey conducted in 2018. While the number of people supporting social transition has slightly decreased, there has been a ten-point rise in those who are against it. This has resulted in a switch in opinions among women, who were previously more supportive of trans rights.
The results of the survey are not surprising, according to one researcher. The fourth survey conducted by YouGov also revealed a shift in the views of Generation Z, with a steady number of 18-24-year-olds supporting social transition, but an increase in those who oppose it.
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However, the survey also showed a decrease in support for the legal right to change gender among young people. While half of the young population believed in this right in 2018, only 43% do now. On the other hand, the number of people against this right has increased significantly.
One young queer person, Simone, is concerned about the normalisation of transphobia in society. They believe that as young people, we should be worried and angry about the spread of misinformation and attacks on the trans community. As a volunteer for the LGBTQ+ young person charity Just Like Us, Simone sees the impact of these toxic narratives on the mental health and well-being of trans youth.
According to Laura Mackay, the chief executive of Just Like Us, knowing someone who is trans can make a significant difference in one's views and understanding. However, the survey revealed that only two in five Britons know someone who is trans, which can contribute to the fear and misunderstanding of the community.
Jess O'Thomson, a researcher on transphobia and the far-right, believes that the rise in anti-trans views is a result of the media and political establishment's deliberate focus on this issue. They argue that opinion polls are not neutral representations but rather reflect the issues that are highlighted by the media and politicians. O'Thomson also points out the growing anti-trans sentiment in the US, with President Trump targeting trans rights through executive orders.
The YouGov survey raises questions about why the general public's views on trans people are even being polled. LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall argues that this further divides society and undermines social cohesion. They compare it to asking for opinions on other marginalized groups' rights and participation in daily life.
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In conclusion, the YouGov survey has revealed a concerning rise in anti-trans views among the British population, especially among young people and women. LGBTQ+ advocates are calling for increased understanding and support for the trans community and for the media and politicians to stop perpetuating harmful narratives. Let's stand up for trans rights and promote a more inclusive and accepting society.
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