Roscommon People reader (Name and address with Editor)
The recent Pride celebrations in Roscommon Town mark a significant historic turning point, offering us an opportunity to consider the progress we’ve achieved. It is heartening to see gay individuals and couples feeling safe and accepted in our locality. I attended the parade and the celebrations in the park on Saturday, and it was clear to me that this was a deeply emotional occasion for many. The atmosphere was incredibly friendly and affirmative, showcasing a collective commitment to support and reassurance.
In the run-up to the weekend there was nothing but positive encouragement shown, with the council heavily promoting the event, and businesses endorsing the occasion and showing their support. It has recently been announced that up to €400,000 is being made available in grants for organisations who work with young people under the LGBTI+ Youth Fund 2024. At this critical juncture it is important to allow for a meaningful dialogue about how we can create a space for families and children within our community. Not everyone may have a complete understanding of what is encompassed by the LGBTQ+ umbrella. While I’m not an expert, I want to highlight some of the issues that are currently being advocated for.
A significant symbol that has emerged in recent years is the transgender pride flag, which incorporates baby blue and baby pink stripes along with a white central stripe. The blue and pink colours are representative of traditional gender norms: blue for boys and pink for girls. These colours serve to challenge preconceived notions about gender identity. As the discourse around gender has evolved — in the wake of feminist thought and achievements in advocating for gay rights — we’ve seen remarkable changes in how we perceive and express gender roles.
While I can see how what started off well intentioned with parents and educators reminding children that boys can like pink, and girls can like blue, etc., what has evolved into ideas of gender in relation to transgender ‘rights’ has its contradictions. Ironically, while gender ideology (stemming from the writing of Judith Butler, which is taught at third level in Ireland) posits that gender is a social construct lying on a spectrum, some facets of transgender ideology seem to reinforce the very gender norms it aims to dismantle.
Trends observed in some states in the USA suggest a rising normalisation of transitioning at increasingly younger ages. The financial aspect is also concerning, as medical professionals can earn significantly from gender-affirming surgeries – often a lucrative process compared to other essential surgical services, such as heart surgery. This raises alarming questions about the motives behind recommending such procedures when a child’s natural development is at stake. The argument involves the view that we should prevent ‘trans children’ from enduring the discomfort associated with undergoing puberty in their ‘assigned gender’. The best case scenario, both for these children (as argued) and for the professionals providing gender-affirming ‘care’, is to initiate treatment as early as possible.
Ironically, the rhetoric surrounding ‘letting kids be who they are’ collides with the reality that many of the same advocates push for what some claim are irreversible medical alterations, particularly through puberty blockers which halt crucial developmental processes. I acknowledge arguments that puberty blockers only pause, rather than completely halt, the puberty process and that these blockers have been used in ‘cis children’ facing precocious puberty. However, this information has primarily been made public by those who advocate for gender-affirming care. ‘Hormone replacement therapy’ can have both reversible and irreversible effects.
The danger of a school-to-gender clinic pipeline cannot be overlooked, particularly as educational institutions operate under financial strains post-Covid. Children should be allowed to experience discomfort and uncertainty during formative years, as these experiences contribute to a robust understanding of their identities. Most people eventually come to understand themselves better with the wisdom of hindsight. However, there is a growing concern that adults – including some parents – are placing these complex ideas before children without adequately considering the implications.
Amidst these discussions, it’s vital to acknowledge the diverse voices that exist within the transgender community. Many individuals who wished to detransition are finding themselves without the necessary support, research, or acknowledgment of their lived experiences, emphasising the need for an open dialogue where every story can be heard. Holding space for these perspectives is not merely about affirming a particular ideology but recognising the multifaceted realities of the human experience.
The strength of belonging to a supportive community is palpable; however, these ties should not come at the expense of critical questioning or indifference to dissenting views. While I recognise that self-expression can be a beautiful and empowering journey, and I have no doubt that many individuals have formed meaningful friendships with like-minded people through their experiences, it is crucial to consider the deeper implications of transgenderism. It appears that there may be a philosophical argument underlying this issue that is often addressed through a medical lens. This raises important questions about whether transitioning is genuinely the most beneficial solution for individuals grappling with a disconnection between their body and mind. Instead of primarily focusing on medical or external intervention, society should provide individuals with the strength and support needed to reconcile with their physical selves.
Last weekend, it was heartwarming to witness so many individuals coming together in solidarity. I commend everyone involved for their efforts in making Pride a success. It’s inspiring to see the community unite in celebration and support for gay individuals and families.
Furthermore, as we navigate the complexities of gender discourse and its implications, we must ensure that the conversation includes the voices of those who wish to express differing viewpoints. It’s important that we recognise how our realities have changed from both an adult and child standpoint, particularly in the context of progress toward ‘gender equality’. We owe it to the next generation and ourselves to foster an environment that honours individual journeys, supports healthy exploration of identity, and promotes holistic well-being without succumbing to ideological extremes.
