Why can't we all be great trans allies, just like Ashley James?
It's easy to show up, speak out, and stand on the right side of history.
Ashley James is a True Trans Ally
Watching organisations turn their backs on the transgender community is painful. It leaves the entire community feeling angry, tired, and powerless. But every so often, someone reminds us that individual choices still matter. That we always have options. Broadcaster and DJ, Ashley James did exactly that.
Ashley stepped down from her role as a Girlguiding ambassador1 after the organisation announced it would no longer welcome transgender girls. It’s a decision that hit many of us hard, but Ashley’s response shows us exactly what allyship looks like in practice.
Where Are Trans Rights in 2025 After Girlguiding’s Ban?
The world was deeply saddened when Girlguiding announced its ban. I can’t help but wonder who pushed for this, who celebrated it, and what kind of hearts they must have.
Cold ones, for sure.
But when someone like Ashley makes a stand, it reminds us that we always have two choices when we witness cruelty or exclusion:
We can close our eyes and pretend it isn’t happening.
Or we can take action - even tiny action - to show that we do not agree.
So, How Do You Want to be Remembered?
Ashley will go down in the history books as somebody who stood up when it mattered. She’s on the right side of history, and you can be too with a few simple but impactful actions.
Here are some simple phrases anyone can use to interrupt harm and create safer spaces:
“I don’t think that comment / post / picture / joke is very kind.”
“That is plain mean - I think you should take that back.”
“I’m going to report that behaviour to the appropriate person, because it is harmful.”
“I’m not going to be involved in your operations anymore, because your views and actions could cause real harm.”
You don’t need a platform or a title to do this, you just need to care enough to speak up.
Your voice matters as much as anybody else’s
Be the person who says something when something isn’t right and don’t be the one who stays silent. Silence is so often read as agreement.
Trans people are hurting right now and every single act of allyship, no matter how small, makes a difference.
Over to You
What do you think makes a great ally? What would it mean to you if someone stood up for you?
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Please subscribe to share them in the comments below.
This is part of a series examining cases, commentary and hearings concerning gender identity. If you have a case or article you’d like me to review, get in touch.
https://www.thepinknews.com/2025/12/04/shley-james-resigns-as-girlguiding-ambassador-over-trans-ban/