Trans row as Scotland’s Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes BANNED from Edinburgh Fringe event because of gender critical views
Scotland’s deputy first minister has become embroiled in a dispute over her trans stance following a speaking engagement at the Edinburgh Fringe.
Kate Forbes – who is a devout Christian – appeared at Summerhall last Thursday for an interview organised by the Herald newspaper.
The arts venue has since declared that the politician will not receive future invitations due to resistance to her stance on transgender issues.
Forbes has previously faced criticism over her positions on social matters.
The latest backlash comes after the 2023 SNP leadership race in which she faced criticism after saying, in line with her beliefs as a member of the Free Church of Scotland, having children outside of marriage was “wrong.”
Forbes is not barred from entering the Summerhall building, which houses a theatre and café, but it is unlikely that a similar event featuring her would be held there in the future.
The deputy first minister has responded forcefully to the venue’s decision, arguing that attempts to “cancel” individuals based on their convictions “undermines democracy”.
Forbes said: “As I stated at the event, I fervently believe in freedom of speech. Any effort to ‘cancel’ people, especially politicians, undermines democracy.
Kate Forbes – who is a devout Christian – appeared at Summerhall last Thursday for an interview
| PA
“Many people attended the Herald event and it is important that we could freely discuss and debate matters in a respectful manner.
“I respect and acknowledge the fact that in a liberal democracy there are people who will agree with me and others who will disagree with me.
“That is all the more reason to create events where the audience and journalists can question politicians openly, as the Herald did.”
