Is the redefinition of “women” from a sex class to a mixed-sex class that prioritizes the claims of male people over the realities of female people a right? No. Is it necessary to redefine “women” to protect the rights of trans people? No.

Is it a right to compel belief in gender identity—rather than respecting people’s freedom to believe or disbelieve? No.

So why has the trans movement taken this particular shape?

Why is this movement such an effective instrument of division within the Left and destruction of women’s rights and such a poor vehicle for delivering actual services and protections that trans people need?

In that sense, the trans movement reminds me of the anti-choice movement (though it's far more ambitious in scope) that supports the death penalty and cheers cuts to social welfare.

Actions always say more than the slogans. The "pro-life" movement is not about the “sanctity of life,” though individual members may be ardent in their beliefs. As a movement, it's about controlling the rights of women, the role of women in society.

The trans movement is not about protecting trans people from discrimination, harassment, and violence but stripping women’s ability to organize and seek recognition and protection on the basis of sex.

The trans movement is about dividing and defanging the Left by requiring submission to an illiberal ideology at odds with reality. This at a moment when the Left which needs a materialist analysis to address climate change and redress inequalities by race, place, and class.