Sun attempt to expose identity of trans father is 'shameful violation'
Caroline has condemned attempts by the Sun to expose the identity of a British trans man who gave birth to a child last year as a ‘transphobic witch-hunt'.
Brighton's Green MP criticises the Sun's actions in an Early Day Motion this week calling on the paper's editor to cease efforts to ‘out' the man and his child, and issue an immediate apology (1).
Caroline said:
"The Sun's shameful attempt to identify a trans man and his child is nothing short of a transphobic witch-hunt, which once again raises questions about the nature of tabloid press reporting.
"That the paper thinks this action is acceptable and in the ‘public interest' suggests that it has learned nothing from the Leveson Inquiry and the ongoing debate around ethics in British journalism.
"This man has made it clear that he wishes to remain anonymous to protect himself and his child from unwanted attention - and by pursuing him in this way, the Sun has placed the child and family at risk of abuse and severe disruption.
"There is also serious concern within the trans community that other trans people and their families who have no connection to this case now face increased risk of public exposure and subsequent attacks.
"Many trans people already face significant discrimination and abuse in their everyday lives, and transphobic media reporting only serves to reinforce the negative stereotyping which feeds prejudice."(2)
The Pavilion MP concluded:
"The Sun should immediately apologise for its calls urging readers to try to identify this trans man and his child, and respect the privacy of those in the transgender and intersex community who wish to maintain their anonymity.
"I urge my fellow MPs to sign the Early Day Motion to send a strong message to the Sun that Parliament takes questions of press ethics seriously - and is ready to act over the prejudicial treatment of Britain's trans community."
ENDS
Notes for Editors
1) Early day motion 2733: PRESS CONDUCT
2) Trans Media Watch gave evidence at the Leveson Inquiry on 8 February 2012.
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