About me

I'm a trans 1st year PhD student at the University of Bristol. My research examines the ways in which the criminal justice system reproduces rape culture through examining who is prosecuted for sexual violence and who is not. The research takes a queer, feminist and abolitionist approach. This research is important because of the endemic criminalization of black, brown and trans bodies.

The Case

I am facing disciplinary board at the University of Bristol for writing an open letter asking the University to take a stand against the infamously transphobic group, "A Woman's Place".

The University claim that the open letter contained, "false information", that I have attempted to "suppress fellow students' freedom of speech", and by trying to address hatred towards trans people, and particularly trans women, I have, "brought the University into disrepute".

I am facing possible expulsion as an outcome of the disciplinary meeting.

My Ask

I need £2,500 to pay the incredible Raj Chada of Hodge Jones and Allen fame to represent me at the disciplinary board. The University will have legal representation, so it is important I do too.

Beyond this, there are countless trans people incarcerated by the British state, who are in need of legal support.

Money raised for my legal fees will be matched in donations for the Empty Cages Collective to cover legal and medical fees for trans prisoners they support. Empty Cages Collective.

What am I Trying to Achieve?

As well as keeping me at the University of Bristol, the outcome of this case will have important implications for both the trans community and for future attempts at holding Universities to account.

If I am expelled as a result of voicing opposition to trans-hatred, this will set a dangerous precedent, silencing future students wishing to stand up for themselves and their community in the face of hatred towards trans people. This is likely to be particularly damaging for trans women, trans people of colour and international trans students, whose right to remain in the UK is tied to retaining a student visa. It would demonstrate that the University can silence marginalised students with impunity.

Thanks in advance for your support!