Boston’s trans-inclusive period Pride event moves after right-wing backlash
Trans pride flags. (Getty)
Organisers of Boston‘s annual Trans Period Pride event say the gathering will still take place, despite reports that it had been cancelled following backlash from conservative media outlets and social media commentators.
The event, organised by the Massachusetts National Organisation for Women (Mass NOW) and the MA Trans Political coalition, was originally scheduled for 17 June; however, an event page for it on the Boston Public Library’s website showed the event had been cancelled, with the listing prompting widespread reports that the event had been scrapped.
However, Mass NOW Executive Director Sasha Goodfriend clarified to the outlet Them in an emailed statement on 1 June that the event is continuing at a different venue. “Trans Period Pride has not been cancelled,” Goodfriend said. “We have secured a new location and are finalising a security plan. Details about the venue and event logistics will be announced next week.”
Trans Period Pride is designed as a discussion focused on menstrual equity and the experiences of transgender people who menstruate. Organisers say the event aims to address barriers faced by trans people, including the overlapping impacts of menstrual stigma and transphobia, while providing resources and community support.
The event attracted national attention and coverage in recent weeks from right-wing outlets, with some criticism directed at Michelle Wu after her Office of LGBTQ Advancement was listed as a supporter of the event.
Responding to the controversy, Goodfriend previously told Them that the backlash “only reinforces why this work – and visibility solidarity – is so important,” adding that “menstrual equity is a public health issue that affects anyone who menstruates, and no one should be excluded from that conversation because of their gender identity”.
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