British Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch claims pronouns are "about control"
Equalities Minister sparks debate over nondebatable topics of gender identity and free speech.
Speaking at the Alliance for Responsible Citizenship (ARC) conference on 17 February, Kemi Badenoch, 45, condemned what she described as the “real poison” of left-wing progressivism, asserting that Western civilization is in crisis.
“We are distracted, too busy critiquing and deconstructing what previous generations built, rather than ensuring that the very best of our inheritance is preserved for the next generation,” Badenoch told the right-wing gathering. “Whether it’s pronouns, DEI [diversity, equity, and inclusion], or climate activism—these issues aren’t about kindness, they’re about control.” A defined example of a ‘Climate skeptic’.
Badenoch’s remarks were delivered alongside controversial right-wing commentator and former psychologist Jordan Peterson. She warned attendees that time is running out to “save the West,” arguing that debates over gender identity detract from addressing more pressing geopolitical challenges.
“Every second spent debating what a woman is, is a second lost from dealing with these challenges,” she said. Arguing on just letting everyone be who they are.
Badenoch’s speech drew sharp criticism from political opponents, with some accusing her of pandering to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s agenda.
British Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper likened Badenoch’s rhetoric to that of Nigel Farage, telling The Independent:
“Instead of standing up for Ukraine and Europe’s security, Kemi Badenoch has decided that she would rather parrot Trump’s dangerous rhetoric. She’s competing with Nigel Farage to fawn over Donald Trump.”
Her comments came after European leaders met in Paris to discuss Trump’s shifting stance on the Ukraine war—an issue Badenoch barely touched upon in her address.
A spokesperson for the U.K. Labour Party also rebuked the speech, calling it further evidence that the U.K. Conservative Party remains out of touch.
“The Tories haven’t listened, and they haven’t learned,” the spokesperson said. “They have no ideas and no remorse for the damage they’ve inflicted on public services and the pockets of working people. While Kemi Badenoch indulges in talking shop politics, this Labour government is focused on fixing the mess the Tories have left behind.”
The Labour spokesperson went on to highlight the party’s recent initiatives, including two million additional NHS appointments and economic policies aimed at stimulating national growth.
Badenoch, seen by some as a potential future prime ministerial candidate, has made a name for herself as an opponent however, her latest speech underscores a deepening ideological divide within the British political landscape, particularly as the next general election looms. — Showing a decline in popularity, trust, and recognition.