Natalee Barnett, founder of a new “terf gym” in South London, has come under fire after banning trans women despite taking donations to open the premises on the basis they would be welcome.
When Barnett, 25, first started raising funds for the space in 2021, she indicated her gym, Girls Spot in Wandsworth, would be open to trans women.
When launching the fundraiser in 2021, Barnett said: “Of course, trans women are welcome at my women-only gym,’ she said in a TikTok in 2021.
“I don’t see trans women as trans women – I see trans women and women. And if you identify as a woman, then you are of course welcome.”
Four years later, and with over £22,900 raised, Barnett has backtracked on her initial objective, stating that the gym is no longer trans-inclusive and will only serve as a “safe space for biological women”.
Barnett’s announcement has fuelled a heated debate on social media, with critics blasting the influencer for accepting donations on the basis that the gym would permit trans women who were born male but now identify as female, before reversing her decision.
Others have branded the plan unfeasible, with trans rights activist and broadcaster India Willoughby saying Barnett would have to do “Undie inspections” for women who “look trans”.
“I spent a great deal of time and money including seeking legal advice and it was absolutely not a choice made lightly or out of exclusion or malice, but rather out of my commitment to ensuring a space where women who have experienced trauma, harassment, or discomfort in co-ed gyms can feel at ease,” Barnett wrote on Instagram.
The decision led to backlash from a portion of the 25-year-old’s followers, with some claiming the announcement is ‘transphobic’.
“To every trans woman who donated or supported this endeavour, I’m sorry you were lied to,” wrote one follower.
A third added: “Trans women are women, and your desire to exclude them speaks loudly that you still see them as men. Women should be able to be protected no matter how they show up.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.