Brighton doesn’t seem transgender friendly.
Went to the beach in Brighton with my partner today and I honestly wish we hadn’t bothered.
We’re both trans women and the amount of shit we got just for existing completely ruined the day. Grown men staring us down, laughing at us, whispering to each other, making comments as we walked past. Some openly jeering at us like we were there for their entertainment.
It was constant. That horrible feeling of knowing people are looking at you with disgust the second you arrive somewhere. We tried to ignore it at first but after hours of it you just end up feeling drained and embarrassed for literally no reason other than existing visibly.
Honestly, the amount of gammon middle-aged men and incel young boys around today, made me wonder if we’d accidentally got on the train to Clacton-on-Sea instead of Brighton.
What’s upsetting is Brighton is always held up as this queer safe haven, this progressive place where people like us are supposed to feel comfortable. But today felt anything but safe. The worst part is it was almost entirely cis men. Happy to sexualise us, gawk at us, or mock us in front of their mates.
We just wanted a normal day at the beach. That’s all. Instead I’ve come home feeling exhausted and honestly really sad.
Has anyone else experienced this lately in Brighton?