We’re heading out around the country to connect with trans people, find out what’s going on for them, and tell them more about a project we’re doing that aims to bring trans people together with their MSPs. We know that MSPs take decisions that affect us without really knowing very much about us, and we want to change that.
Trans people live all kinds of different lives and face all different kinds of barriers. Often, those representing us don't know much about them. Trans people who are marginalised in multiple ways, maybe because they’re disabled and trans, or a trans person of colour, often face even more misunderstanding about what they need.
Polling clearly shows that anyone who knows a trans person is far more likely to be supportive of positive change than someone who hasn't. This personal connection is as important for our elected representatives as it is for everyone else and there has never been a more important time to have your voice heard.
This event will be an opportunity to learn more about how we can work together to reach those with the power to make decisions that effect our lives. We want to make sure that trans voices - your voices - are heard and considered in ‘behind closed door’ conversations held about us, without us.
This event is for all trans including non-binary people over 18 living in Scotland
Our events have a safe space code of conduct that participants must follow: https://www.scottishtrans.org/code-of-conduct/
Accessibility, location and getting to the venue
The event will take place at the Cairndale Hotel, English Street, Dumfries, DG1 2DF. On arrival at the venue, please make your way to the Empire Suite where registration will take place from 1145.
The Empire Suite is fully accessible, and parking is available on-site.
Car - From the West
Approaching Dumfries on the A75 take a right turn at the first roundabout on the bypass. Continue towards the town centre. Cross the river and continue past Greyfriars Church. Turn right at the traffic lights (Dumfries Academy). Follow the one way system. At the next set of traffic lights the hotel lies on the right hand side of English Street, opposite the Dumfries & Galloway Council offices.
From the South
Follow the M6 to Carlisle and take the A75 to Dumfries. Bear left towards the town centre at the first roundabout on the bypass (just past the Little Chef). Continue straight on for the Town Centre (approx 2 miles). Come to a large roundabout (Mini Garage showroom on left). Cross the Railway Bridge and continue through two more sets of traffic lights baring left at the second set of lights (St Mary's Church is on your right). The hotel is the first building on the left.
Train - Dumfries Railway station is a 5 minute walk (0.3 miles)
Buses - 500, 502
Low income? Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed at the event, please keep your receipts so we can refund you. If you need these expenses in advance, please contact oceana@equality-network.org