In a statement released on social media, Gender X detailed a disturbing pattern of harassment. The incidents reportedly began with individuals banging on the door and attempting to intimidate members inside. Over time, the group of aggressors grew, and their actions became more violent.
“It’s not the first time they’ve come,” the association wrote. “They started by trying to intimidate us, hitting [the door] and breaking a window. The first few times there were two of them, then they became four, and the last time eight of them showed up.”
The most recent and severe incident occurred last Friday, when a group of eight people allegedly gathered outside the centre. According to Gender X, the group shouted that "if we came out, they would set us on fire."
Police Response and a Call for Solidarity
The repeated attacks have created what the organization describes as a "climate of terror," particularly for the younger people who use the space as a safe haven. In response, Gender X has filed a formal police complaint, providing video evidence that they say identifies some of the attackers.
However, the group expressed frustration with the initial police response. They claim the officer who took their statement downplayed the severity of the situation, allegedly describing the perpetrators as "just kids" and stating that the police could not post a permanent guard at the location.
“What we are asking for is protection,” Gender X stated. “If we can’t get it from the authorities, we ask the people of the neighbourhood to show us their support.”
Facing what they feel is an inadequate institutional response, the association has issued a call to the wider queer, transfeminist, and anti-fascist communities to stand with them. A public demonstration is being planned for the coming days to show a united front and make it clear to the aggressors that the community is not isolated.
A Wider European Context
The events in Rome do not occur in a vacuum. Across Italy and other parts of Europe, there has been a noted increase in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and violence, often targeting the trans community. Gender X explicitly connects the attacks to a broader political culture, describing the aggressors not as "simple bullies" but as "the sons of the fascist patriarchy."
The organization has affirmed its intention to remain in its Pigneto location, refusing to be intimidated. “It is a right for all people: trans people are people, and therefore it is our right too,” they concluded, referring to the right to safety and protection.
