Thousands Protest Trans Rights, Statues Defaced in London

Thousands of trans rights activists marched through central London following a Supreme Court ruling that defined 'woman' and 'sex' in the 2010 Equality Act as referring to biological women and biological sex, sparking anger among protestors. During the demonstration, at least seven statues, including that of suffragette Millicent Fawcett, were defaced with pro-trans graffiti, prompting a police investigation. Protesters demanded 'trans liberation' and criticized the ruling, arguing it allows for the exclusion of transgender women from single-sex spaces if deemed proportionate. Government officials welcomed the decision, claiming it brings 'clarity and confidence' for women and service providers, while Labour sources described the party's stance as a shift toward 'common sense.' Activists and community leaders voiced concerns over the lack of trans representation in the legal process and challenged the premise that female safety is improved by excluding trans women. The event highlighted ongoing divisions over gender identity, legal rights, and public policy in the UK.