Content warning: This episode contains discussions that touch on topics of suicide and self-harm.

In this episode of Critical Defiance, hosts BobbySox, Neils, and Bill delve into the orchestrated moral panic targeting the trans community in America. They discuss the history of irrational societal fears, compare current assaults on trans rights to past moral hysteria like Reefer Madness and the Satanic Panic, and unpack the dangerous myths and misinformation propagated about trans individuals. The episode highlights the practical and cultural implications of anti-trans legislation, stressing the severe repercussions on freedom, bodily autonomy, and societal inclusion.

With Pride Month in full swing, the hosts also shine a light on significant wins for the LGBTQ+ community, including landmark decisions in Puerto Rico and inclusive events at cultural institutions. The episode concludes with a powerful call to action, urging listeners to critically examine their understanding of gender and stand against discriminatory policies.

Photo by Delia Giandeini on Unsplash

NOTE: Transcriptions and subtitles are automatically generated and may mislabel speakers or contain other errors.

Chapters

00:00 The New Moral Panic: Decoding the Assault on Trans Existence

04:28 News Recap

10:04 Big Thoughts

46:18 Outro

Links and Resources

* The Cathedral of St. John the Divine

* Mapping Attacks on LGBTQ Rights in U.S. State Legislatures in 2025

This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit criticaldefiance.substack.com/subscribe

Chapters

• (00:00:10 ) - Critical Defiance: The Attack on Trans People
• (00:04:28 ) - LGBTQ Pride Month 2018 Reaction!
• (00:08:18 ) - The Despicable Harvey Milk
• (00:10:04 ) - CIS People: Trans People
• (00:13:12 ) - How Trans People Got To This Point
• (00:19:05 ) - Gender Roles and How They Affect Society
• (00:24:41 ) - Trans myths and lies
• (00:28:14 ) - Gender Affirming Surgery: The REACTION Rate
• (00:30:21 ) - The Anti-Trans Bills
• (00:36:00 ) - Transgender Bill of Rights
• (00:41:29 ) - Big Wins For Queers During Pride
• (00:44:09 ) - HDE homework
• (00:46:18 ) - Critical Defiance: Queer Architects of a Better America