Maggie Chapman has retained her seat on Holyrood’s Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee after a motion to remove her was voted down.
The motion, brought by Conservative MSP Tess White, was firmly rejected.
Following the decision, Chapman expressed gratitude to the committee for backing her position.
She also thanked the many trans and non-binary individuals and their allies who had reached out in recent weeks.
Chapman said hearing their stories of exclusion and fear had been heartbreaking.
She warned of the rising anxiety in these communities following recent legal and political developments.
According to Chapman, focus should not be placed on her personally, but on what she described as a dangerous shift in rights for trans and non-binary people.
She made it clear she respected the legal system’s right to rule as it did.
However, she also asserted that respect for the process does not equate to agreement with its outcome.
She stated plainly that she does not agree with the ruling, and she is deeply troubled by its consequences.
Chapman condemned what she called a “toxic culture war” that is vilifying trans people and their families.
She blamed both political figures and elements of the media for fuelling the narrative.
Chapman reaffirmed her commitment to advocate for trans and non-binary people at Holyrood.
She said that supporting these communities is not only a moral imperative but a fundamental part of her duty as an MSP.
She pointed out that her constituents include trans and non-binary individuals, as well as people who love them.
Everyone, she argued, has the right to be seen, heard, and represented for who they truly are.
She pledged to remain a vocal and unwavering ally for trans and non-binary rights.
Her comments come at a time when debates around gender recognition and equality law are becoming increasingly fraught.
Critics of her stance argue that political representation must remain neutral when it comes to contentious legal matters.
But Chapman’s supporters claim that neutrality in the face of injustice is not an option.
They say that her presence on the committee is vital in ensuring marginalised voices are not drowned out.
With the motion rejected, Chapman will continue to serve on the influential committee.
The decision has been welcomed by campaigners who fear that removing her would have set a chilling precedent.
As Scotland continues to navigate the complexities of equality legislation, Chapman’s stance signals no retreat.
