Protestors are set to demonstrate outside Sheffield Central Library tonight in solidarity with an international transgender author.
Canadian novelist and cartoonist, Sophie Labelle, is due to speak about her upcoming novel The Best of Assigned Male, a coming-of-age story about a young trans girl.
She told Sheffield Wire: “The hate and harassment that have surrounded my appearance in Sheffield is entirely a product of the current anti-trans climate in the United Kingdom.”
According to student campaign organisation Sheffield Solidarity Group, a counter-protest will show support for her following social media backlash and alleged threats of violence.
Calls for the event to be cancelled have grown after concerns were raised about fetish artwork that Ms Labelle has previously made.
She said: “The fact that this is the only place (United Kingdom) I’ve been in the world where my work is being described as unsuitable for children is symptomatic of the lies and rumours about trans people that British politicians and media have been feeding to their audiences.”
Some of her previous cartoons fall under a kink sub-genre known as “diaperfur”, involving human-like animals wearing nappies and behaving in an infantile manner.
Ms Labelle, who addressed the controversy in a tweet in 2021, said at the time: “I made some diaperfur art. I have a kink I indulge responsibly and I refuse to be shamed for it.”
Libraries Sheffield, who have organised the event, have defended their right to host the event, stating it is suitable for families.
Cllr Richard Williams, Chair of the Communities, Parks and Leisure Policy Committee, said: “Sheffield is a diverse and inclusive city and it is right that our programme of activity reflects that.
“The evening event is aimed at teenagers upwards, but we know that some families do attend Sophie’s talks and did not want to exclude them.”
South Yorkshire Police said they were aware of the event and encouraged anyone with concerns to report to officers who will be in attendance.
A venue in Manchester pulled out of hosting Ms Labelle last weekend due to safety concerns after threats were allegedly made.
MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge Miriam Cates wrote to Sheffield City Council criticising their decision to go ahead with the event.
She told the Express: “I can’t understand how a council which has safeguarding responsibilities can allow this to happen.
“Why not put an 18 age restriction on this? It’s not suitable for children.”
The event is set to take place at 7pm this evening (27 February 2023).
