Defending Women's Spaces

Karen Ingala Smith argues that women have unique needs that are often not met by mixed-sex spaces, and that certain spaces, such as refuges, benefit from remaining single sex. She dismantles the idea that we have reached a post-sex utopia.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 217 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2022
Publisher: Polity Press

The question of who counts as a woman is a central issue in many public debates about sex and gender today. While there is growing recognition of the desire to eliminate the sex binary in law, there are conflicting demands regarding women's spaces. This has led to a debate over whether sex or gender identity should govern access to these spaces.

Karen Ingala Smith, a veteran campaigner for women's and girls' rights, advocates for the former. In her trenchant critique of inclusivity politics, she argues that we cannot ignore the wealth of evidence that shows that people of the female sex have unique needs that are often not met by mixed-sex spaces. Drawing on her 30 years of experience in researching and recording men's violence against women and girls, she outlines how certain spaces, such as refuges, benefit from remaining single-sex and what they stand to lose. Written with sensitivity and respect for all concerned, this book nevertheless dismantles the idea that we have reached a post-sex utopia.

Smith argues that women's spaces should be designed with their specific needs in mind, including safety, privacy, and support. She points out that mixed-sex spaces can be uncomfortable and unsafe for women, particularly those who have experienced violence or abuse. Single-sex spaces, on the other hand, provide a safe and supportive environment where women can feel comfortable expressing themselves and accessing services.

However, Smith also acknowledges that there are challenges associated with single-sex spaces, such as the potential for discrimination and exclusion. She argues that it is important to ensure that single-sex spaces are inclusive and accessible to all women, regardless of their gender identity, sexual orientation, or other characteristics. This includes providing services that are tailored to the specific needs of women, such as counseling and support services for survivors of violence.

In conclusion, the question of who counts as a woman is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration. While there are benefits to single-sex spaces, it is important to ensure that they are inclusive and accessible to all women, regardless of their gender identity or other characteristics. By designing women's spaces with their specific needs in mind, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for all women.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 216 x 138 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509554447