Victoria McCloud fights back against trans rights rollback in the UK

In April 2025, Victoria McCloud, Britain's first trans judge, faced a significant setback when the UK's Supreme Court ruled that a woman is defined by biological sex, rather than gender. This ruling was the result of the case brought by the campaign group For Women Scotland, which addressed the legal status of trans individuals, leading to a determination that trans women could be excluded from single-sex spaces meant for women. In light of this decision, McCloud, who has served as a judge for over 18 years, saw her own legal status change overnight, making her feel like she belonged to two sexes simultaneously under the law. As a result, McCloud, indicating a dire state for the trans community, accused legal authorities of failing to represent the voices of those most affected by such ruling. She likened the impact of the ruling on her rights and the rights of many in the trans community to a 'car crash.' Living now in Ireland, where she perceives a greater sense of safety for trans individuals, she pointed out that this Supreme Court ruling represents a broader societal trend of erasing trans rights not only within the UK but also globally. Observing a sense of urgency due to increasing vulnerabilities, McCloud highlighted that trans people were effectively 'disappearing' from societal acceptance. In response to the alarming trend and inability for the marginalized community to voice their concerns within legal frameworks, she initiated the Trans Exile Network (TEN). This private group aims to support trans, non-binary, and intersex individuals seeking to leave the UK. Additionally, the network offers a platform for sharing experiences, tips, and potential crowdfunding avenues for those facing financial barriers in relocating. McCloud’s commitment extends beyond her circumstances to those of future generations grappling with the consequences of such societal shifts, underscoring that change isn't just about the present situation but ensuring better prospects for those to come. Moreover, the Supreme Court ruling and its implications have highlighted a gap in representation and understanding about the realities faced by trans individuals, fueling widespread concern about the political climate in the UK. While figures like Keir Starmer, Wes Streeting, and Bridget Phillips are perceived to exacerbate the situation for trans people, McCloud noted the urgency in addressing these issues. With her legal challenge expected to extend over several years at the European level, McCloud expressed a strong need to contribute to a movement that seeks to secure and restore the rights of trans individuals, motivating her to press forward despite the daunting nature of the challenges ahead.