I love David Tennant, but I don’t agree with his choice of words.

With the general election coming up, the right is looking for any opportunity to stir hatred from their relentless mob. We must not stoop to their level.

First things first, I believe that trans women are women and trans men are men. I’m also a big fan of David Tennant, so seeing him advocate and work for real change with our community is a sight to behold.

However, the recent attention surrounding Tennant's speech at the British LGBT Awards following his Celebrity Ally win has sparked a heated response across social media. In his speech, Tennant, known for his roles in Doctor Who and Broadchurch, expressed frustration towards Kemi Badenoch, the Women and Equalities Minister, stating that she should “cease to exist,” and following up with, “I don’t wish her ill, I just want her to shut up.”

These comments have elicited strong reactions from gender ideologists and JK Rowling supporters, accusing Tennant of misogyny and racism, while others defend his stance and emphasise the need for solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.

Tennant's speech resonated deeply with many in the LGBTQ+ community. His remarks came from a place of frustration with Badenoch's policies, which are harmful to the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals. Tennant's intent was to highlight the detrimental impact of such political stances and to stand in solidarity with an already marginalised community. In an era where political leaders' words and actions can significantly influence public opinion and policy, Tennant's passionate defense of LGBTQ+ rights was seen as a courageous and necessary act of allyship.

Supporters of Tennant argue that his comments, while blunt, were a response to what they see as ongoing and systemic discrimination. They emphasise that the focus should be on the harmful policies and rhetoric of politicians like Badenoch, rather than on the impassioned response of an ally. For many in the LGBTQ+ community, Tennant's words were a reflection of the urgency and increasing frustration felt by those whose lives and rights are directly affected by current Conservative political decisions.

Gender ideologists and the far-right have labeled Tennant's comments as misogynistic and racist, arguing that his call for Badenoch to "shut up” and to “cease to exist” is disrespectful and silences a Black woman in politics.

Tennant's speech, as well-intentioned as it was, demonstrates how easily words can be weaponised and misconstrued. Words hold immense power. They can inspire and unite, but they can also alienate and divide.

In an age where social media amplifies every statement and every reaction, the importance of carefully chosen words cannot be overstated, particularly in relation to the insensitivity and complexity of public discourse in today's socio-political landscape.

For those advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and other social justice causes, the goal should be to build bridges, however fraught. This means engaging in dialogue that, while firm and unyielding in its principles, remains respectful and inclusive. By doing so, we create a broader coalition for change.

Tennant’s speech serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of words in our public discourse. While his passion and commitment to LGBTQ+ rights are commendable and very much welcomed, the response against his choice of words illustrates the need for careful consideration in how we express ourselves.

In the battle for hearts and votes, especially in the deeply polarised environment of today's culture wars spurred on by the right, we play into their hands when we stoop to their level. It is crucial to communicate in ways that foster understanding and cooperation, if the hard years of progress relentlessly fought by our ancestors are not to fall by the wayside.