Tory MP accuses councillor of “misogyny” due to “TERF” tweet
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MacLeod, a Liberal Democrat and Diversity Officer, used the acronym “TERF” in his tweet, which stands for Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist.
The term is used to describe those who describe themselves as feminists but who oppose transgender rights and the inclusion of transgender people, especially trans women.
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Hide AdThey often see the existence of transgender women, and issues relating to their rights and safety, as a contradiction or threat to the rights of cisgender women. Some may see the use of this term as a slur, or “misogynistic”, as Caulfield has said.
McLeod’s tweet read “f*ck the TERFs”, and he has since deleted his twitter account after significant backlash on the site.
In a statement, Conservative MP for Lewes Maria Caulfield said: “I am disgusted by Lib Dem Cllr Sean Macleod’s behaviour. It is disgraceful behaviour not allowing women to have a voice.
“I have now had complaints from constituents about his latest Tweets showing misogynistic behaviour. Behaviour that is completely unacceptable, especially from someone with such power as a councillor. I have been inundated with emails about his misogynistic tweets about women.”
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Hide AdSean MacLeod said: "I apologise for the language I used and immediately deleted my post. I understand the need for discussions on this topic to be respectful and will consider this when posting about my support of rights for trans people."
A statement from Lewes Liberal Democrats reads: "Sean has apologised and immediately deleted the post."