Following a recent landmark ruling involving For Women Scotland and the Scottish Government, the Scottish LGBT collective Cabaret Against The Hate Speech has announced plans for a "Solidarity Salon" event to take place in Glasgow. The case in question centred on the legal definition of the term “woman,” with For Women Scotland challenging the government's stance that the category encompasses both biological females and biological males who hold a Gender Recognition Certificate (GRC).
In response to the ruling, Cabaret Against The Hate Speech will hold the "Solidarity Salon" in George Square on 19 April at 2pm. The group has called for attendees to adhere to a dress code featuring the colours pink, blue, and white, symbolising their cause. The collective emphasised their intention to create a "designated safe space" for participants, the exact location of which will be disclosed only to those attending on the day itself.
Taking to social media, the group explained their vision for the event: “Historically salons were only for one type of woman to discuss ideas but we are queering up this concept and making it fully intersectional.” They further described the salon as "an open opportunity for the LGBTQ+ community to come together, raise their voices and express themselves," amidst what they called "dark and troubling times."
The event’s objectives were outlined clearly by the organisers, who wrote, "Our three main goals are to sing together, celebrate our community and challenge hate speech with music, song and dance." They highlighted a strict policy against engagement with counter-protesters, intimidation tactics, or violence, including prohibitions on offensive banners and signs. Attendees are encouraged to arrive and depart in groups and to cover or remove identifiable colours, flags, or signs before and after the event.
Additional guidelines include permission for bringing personal signs, flags, megaphones, instruments, and face masks for those concerned about doxxing or Covid-19. Participants are urged to follow organisers' instructions and stewards' directions during the event. Respect for personal space and boundaries is also underscored, with organisers stating, "If you do not follow our guidelines you will be asked to leave the cabaret." Furthermore, the collective requested that attendees refrain from touching sound equipment or other technical apparatus and noted that it is not mandatory to stay for the entire duration of the salon.
The National Scot is reporting that the event aims to foster community cohesion and provide a platform for expression and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ population in Glasgow following a significant moment in Scottish legal and social discourse.
Source: Noah Wire Services