News / Bristol
Multiple venues declare themselves safe spaces for trans people
Following the recent Supreme Court ruling, venues across Bristol have declared themselves as spaces that welcome and support our city’s trans community.
Twenty businesses including bars, pubs, cafes, a bookshop and a cinema have already been announced on the Safe Space Bristol group with dozens more also set to join.
Safe Space Bristol say they were “created out of heartbreak and hope” after the Supreme Court ruled that the legal definition of a woman is based on biological sex.
is needed now More than ever
Writing on Instagram, Safe Space Bristol wrote: “In the wake of the recent transphobic UK court ruling, fear and injustice have cast a heavy shadow. But in that shadow, we’ve seen something powerful rise – solidarity, resilience and love.
“Safe Space Bristol exists to amplify that love. Our goal is simple and urgent. We are building a living list of local places that are proud to stand with trans people.
“Not quietly. Not just in principle. But openly, actively and unapologetically.
“We are calling on cafes, bookshops, salons, studios, clubs and more to make one thing clear: You are safe here. You are seen. You are loved.
“This is not just about allyship. It’s about action. If you run a space (or know one) that truly welcomes and supports the trans community, we want to hear from you.
“Now is the time to stand together. Follow along as we spotlight safe spaces across Bristol. Let’s make our city feel like home for everyone.”
Watershed is among the Bristol businesses already showing they are a safe space for trans people with this sticker and their painted stairs – photo: Martin Booth
The Volunteer Tavern in St Jude’s is among the businesses declaring their support saying they “will always be a safe space for trans people”.
“We are committed to creating a welcoming, joyful space for all gender identities. If you don’t like that, we respectfully suggest you drink elsewhere.”
Zara’s Chocolates in Bedminster say their “small and friendly team will always welcome everybody with open arms”.
And Bookhaus in Wapping Wharf “is a queer-friendly bookshop (who) oppose all discrimination on the basis of identity and wish to be a welcoming space to all”.
Main photo: Martin Booth
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