Lecturers and students at the University of Edinburgh have called for the cancellation of a screening of the documentary 'Adult Human Female', labelling it 'transphobic'. The film, which explores the clash between women's rights and transgender ideology, is scheduled to be shown on campus today.
The event, organised by the Edinburgh Academics for Academic Freedom (EAAF) group, has sold out. The University and College Union (UCU) wrote to the university last week requesting the withdrawal of the venue, describing the event as 'transphobic'. The student Pride Society also condemned the screening, saying it would 'endanger trans people on campus and beyond'.
In response, the EAAF said it was 'sorry our UCU branch takes a censorious and dogmatic view of sex and gender', adding that it is not afraid of being 'cancelled'. The film's director, Deirdre O'Neill, stated that any discriminatory language in the film is quoted 'in order to condemn not endorse discrimination'.
The university defended its decision to allow the screening, citing its commitment to freedom of expression and academic freedom. A spokesperson said: 'It is our duty to make sure staff and students feel able to discuss controversial topics and that each event allows for debate.'
The controversy has sparked debate on social media, with Scottish Labour MSP Monica Lennon supporting a ban, while journalist Susan Dalgety argued the backlash is 'another reason why women are getting angry'.
