Gender rights activists have voiced their profound outrage after being forcibly removed by police from an International Women's Day gathering in Nottingham. The incident occurred when campaigners posed questions regarding female-only spaces, which authorities claimed caused alarm and distress among attendees.
Confrontation at Albert Hall
On Friday, campaigner Kellie-Jay Keen was ordered to exit the Albert Hall in Nottingham following reports that members of the public were upset. This action was taken despite Ms Keen's insistence that she had obtained permission to film from all women interviewed and maintained a non-threatening demeanor throughout the event.
Police Intervention and Allegations
Footage from the encounter depicts two police officers approaching Ms Keen and other members of the Let Women Speak (LWS) group. One officer instructed her to leave the building immediately, stating, "We've been made aware that you have been asking people questions that have caused them alarm and distress." Ms Keen interjected, questioning whether the officer knew the content of her inquiries, later clarifying that she had simply asked, "Do you offer single sex spaces?"
Ms Keen expressed her disgust to the Daily Mail, accusing Nottinghamshire police of prioritizing silencing women over protecting them. She referenced a previous event where police allegedly allowed trans activists to attack LWS members, contrasting it with this ejection for asking lawful questions at a public event organized by the police and crime commissioner's office.
Event Details and Legal Dispute
The event was organized in collaboration with Nottingham Women's Centre (NWC), with online advertisements inviting groups to book stalls for public engagement. Ms Keen argued that the ejection was unlawful, as the event was public sector-organized, not private, and stall-holders were present to interact with the community.
In one clip, Ms Keen interviewed NWC CEO Louisa Matthews, probing about the centre's services and its stance on inclusivity following Supreme Court rulings. Ms Matthews responded that they would seek legal advice, follow the law, and remain trans-inclusive, noting no policy change despite questions about women-only spaces.
Public Reaction and Broader Implications
The footage has garnered tens of thousands of views online, sparking widespread debate. Actor and comedian John Cleese commented critically on the police's actions, highlighting concerns over free speech and public safety. This incident underscores ongoing tensions around gender rights, policing, and the definition of women-only spaces in contemporary society.
