"Scapegoating rhetoric and demonisation is leading directly to an increase in hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community and other vulnerable groups."
Cllr Shaun Harkin continued: "In this context, Sinn Féin shamefully joined the DUP to vote down a trans rights solidarity motion in Derry City and Strabane Council.
"When Sinn Féin representatives couldn't remove paragraphs of the motion related to the actions of Stormont Ministers, including Education Minister Paul Givan's directive to remove guidance for trans students, they described the motion as 'divisive'.
"The demands of the LGBTQ+ community for equality are not the problem. The scapegoating and demonisation some Ministers and parties, primarily the DUP, are fully engaged in is the problem.
"Calling demands for equality 'divisive' is pathetic deflection."
Sinn Féin could have abstained, as others did who were not 100% sure on some of the transphobic decisions emanating from the Executive, but they chose unity with the DUP over solidarity with trans people facing rising levels of demonisation and hate crimes.
Despite the rejection of this motion, Transgender Day of Remembrance will be marked in Derry on the 20th of November.
There is a growing organised pushback against transphobic rhetoric and hurtful policies, but these efforts are clearly not supported by any of the Stormont Executive parties.
"There are reasons to stay hopeful. Growing numbers of people can see through the lies and bigotry. The tide will turn."
People Before Profit Cllr Shaun Harkin's motion to Derry City and Strabane District Council:
"This Council proudly stands for inclusion and equality and is alarmed at the dangerous increase in political scapegoating of transgender people.
Council stands in solidarity with transgender people across our District and views with deep disappointment transphobic decisions that have come from Stormont Executive Ministers, including the permanent puberty blocker ban, the Cass-led review of gender identity services, and removal of school guidance for trans students, and calls for these to be reversed immediately.
These decisions have deepened discrimination of transgender people and added to the climate of fear they face.
Council will work with Foyle Pride, the Rainbow Project, the LGBTQ+ Working Group and others to mark Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20."