Naha City Councillor's "Transgender Gender Identity is Contagious" Remark Sparks Widespread Condemnation
In a regular session of the Naha City Council, Councillor Wada of the Sanseito party made a statement calling transgender gender identity "contagious," sparking significant controversy, particularly on social media. The remark was made during a question about the number of transgender students in city schools, with Councillor Wada suggesting that gender identity is a condition requiring "the introduction of psychologists who can treat emotional wounds." This statement has led to a flood of criticism on X (formerly Twitter). Many users demanded Councillor Wada's resignation, stating "Unacceptable" and "Resign." They condemned the remark as discriminatory and showing a lack of understanding for the dignity of sexual minorities, asserting "Do not engage in hate speech in the council." One user commented, "The notion that transgender gender identity is 'contagious' is a classic discriminatory narrative directed at sexual mi...