Glamour UK Honors Nine Trans Women in 2025 Women of Year Amid Trans Rights Debate

Glamour UK has named nine trans women as its 2025 Women of the Year, highlighting their influence in activism, fashion, music, and media amid rising hostility toward trans rights in the UK. The honorees, including Munroe Bergdorf, Bel Priestley, and Shon Faye, are collectively referred to as "The Dolls," a term of solidarity within the transgender community, and feature in the "Protect the Dolls" campaign advocating for trans visibility and safety. The cover and recognition have sparked controversy, drawing criticism from figures like J.K. Rowling, who argued that the inclusion of trans women undermines biological women, while supporters emphasize the celebration of diversity and inclusion. Munroe Bergdorf, a prominent and sometimes controversial activist, called for unity and warned against the demonization of transgender people, linking it to broader human rights issues and criticizing the UK government's treatment of trans people. Fellow honoree Maxine Heron and others echoed the call for genuine action beyond symbolic allyship, highlighting the challenges faced by trans individuals in a climate of increased online vitriol and political hostility. The campaign also supports charitable causes like Trans Lifeline through merchandise sales, underscoring a broader push for community support and protection.