Introduction
Women’s rights groups have expressed outrage over the selection of transgender model Munroe Bergdorf as the “UK champion” by UN Women UK. While the charity aims to empower and improve the lives of women and girls globally, these groups argue that Bergdorf is an unsuitable choice due to her historic “homophobic and racist” online posts. Let’s delve into the controversy and explore the perspectives of both sides.
UN Women UK wants Munroe Bergdorf to empower and enhance women and girls’ lives – but women’s right groups are ‘dismayed’ by her appointment. Credit: Splash
Concerns Raised by Women’s Rights Groups
Seventeen organizations, including Fair Play for Women, Sex Matters, and Transgender Trend, have voiced their concerns to UN Women UK regarding the appointment of Munroe Bergdorf. They argue that she is “unsuitable” for the role due to her previous online comments. These groups highlight Bergdorf’s historic posts, which they deem “homophobic and racist.” They state that her well-publicized activism does not align with a pro-women agenda and even suggested that she has objected to women discussing their own bodies.
Criticism of Bergdorf’s Past Comments
In 2019, certain posts made by Bergdorf led to her removal as an ambassador for Childline. Additionally, beauty brand L’Oréal dropped her in 2017 after she made controversial statements about the racial violence of white people. Although she clarified that her comments were directed at systemic racism, LGBTQ+ groups were angered when she used derogatory language to describe a friend in 2010.
Bergdorf’s Role and Response
Before this appointment, Bergdorf was already involved in UN Women’s Draw a Line campaign, which aims to end violence against women. She views her new role as a responsibility that she takes seriously and has expressed her ambition to work with the UN for over a decade. Bergdorf intends to advocate for the progress, safety, inclusion, and empowerment of all women and girls, emphasizing the importance of addressing misogyny, transphobia, and gender-based inequality in the UK.
Conclusion
The selection of Munroe Bergdorf as the “UK champion” by UN Women UK has ignited controversy. While the charity sees her as an agent of empowerment, women’s rights groups argue that her historic online posts make her unsuitable for the role. The concerns raised underscore the ongoing discourse surrounding diversity, inclusivity, and the complexities of representing marginalized communities. Despite the disagreement, both parties are committed to advancing the well-being of women and girls.