JK Rowling has every right to speak up

Sir, – In blaming JK Rowling for the abuse she is constantly subjected to for airing her views on the trans issue, Jennifer O’Connell furthers the age-old practice of blaming abused women for the violence and shaming they are subjected to and shows her very narrow understanding of the issues (“JK Rowling’s ‘witch trials’ are of her own making”, Opinion & Analysis, April 2nd).

O’Connell notes that, “After four years of criticism, online fury, abuse, threats of violence, and even book burnings, her faith in her own position is undimmed.” In most contexts this observation might be applauded but O’Connell frames it as Rowling’s failure to be persuaded that she is complicit in the abuse because she won’t back down. Because she keeps “going back for more”.

Making the decision to “enter the fray” is not a decision that is weighed or taken lightly by those who agree with Rowling. Livelihoods and reputations are at stake yet many women have chosen to speak. Does O’Connell blame us for the abuse we have subsequently been subjected to? Does she maintain that we are orchestrating the vitriolic backlash we have experienced for publicly defending the right of women and girls to spaces where male-bodied people are not allowed?

O’Connell further claims that “one side gets to walk away” from the issue while the other side “has to live it”. This is wholly untrue. It sweeps aside the trauma of detransitioners who realise that they were mistaken when claiming to be the opposite sex.

Ask Owen Doyle: When should a rugby referee give a warning, and when should they give a penalty?

---

Taxation on investments: What changes might be on the way?

---

Gardaí to use undercover lorry to see into cars and HGVs and film distracted drivers

---

Radio: The 2 Johnnies set to leave 2FM next week, RTÉ confirms

---

It ignores lesbians who are demonised for asserting attraction to female biology and it negates the lingering impact of repeated abuse.

Instead of blaming those on the receiving end of online bullying, columnists in the State’s leading paper might be better employed facilitating a frank public discussion on the impact of gender theory on all our lives. – Yours, etc,

JEAN CROSS,

Ballinrobe,

Co Mayo.