Jewish Lawmaker Forced to Leave SF Trans March Over Gaza Stance
Jewish lawmaker who champions trans rights – Scott Wiener, a Jewish state senator and congressional candidate running to replace Rep. Nancy Pelosi, found himself at the center of controversy during San Francisco’s annual Trans March. The event, which celebrates LGBTQ+ rights, became a stage for heated debate as demonstrators confronted Wiener about his position on the Gaza conflict. His advocacy for transgender rights, which has earned him recognition in California, was overshadowed by accusations that he supports genocide in Gaza, leading to a dramatic exit from the march.
Confrontation at Dolores Park
The incident unfolded in Dolores Park, a popular location for the Trans March, where Wiener was met with intense criticism. A video circulating online captures the moment, showing him being followed by protesters who loudly expressed their disapproval. One individual is heard stating,
“It breaks my heart that someone who wrote good legislation for queers is so f**king terrible on Gaza.”
Others used gestures and shouted labels like “genocidal,” with some accusing him of being influenced by “Zionist handlers.” The filmer in the video also questioned his presence, declaring,
“You do not belong here anymore, Scott. I want to support someone who’s so positive on trans rights, but you’re a piece of sh*t on Gaza.”
Wiener’s Response to Harassment
Wiener addressed the situation on Saturday, explaining that he was heading to a Pride Shabbat service organized by transgender advocates when the confrontation occurred. He described the experience as dangerous, noting that protesters physically touched him and created an intimidating atmosphere. “They were so physically and verbally aggressive that it was impossible for me to safely remain in the park,” he stated in his public message. This marked the first time he had missed the Trans March since its inception in 2004.
Earlier that week, Wiener faced a similar encounter at a Mission District bar while watching a World Cup match. A man approached him and his staff, yelling about his Gaza stance before being asked to leave by the bar’s employees. The same individual had also followed him on a plane and in an airport during December 2023. Wiener emphasized that while disagreements are healthy, harassment—especially cornering or bullying—crosses into an unacceptable level.
Policy Positions and Controversy
Wiener has long been a vocal champion of transgender rights, advocating for inclusive legislation in California. His efforts have included supporting policies that protect LGBTQ+ communities, making him a respected figure in progressive circles. However, his views on Israel have sparked debate. While he supports the Jewish state’s right to exist and its self-defense following Hamas’s attacks in October 2023, he has criticized the Netanyahu government and endorsed a two-state solution.
His campaign website clearly outlines opposition to U.S. military aid for Israel until it demonstrates a commitment to peace. Wiener also defines Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide, a stance he articulated during a January debate. Initially hesitant to use the term, he later confirmed that the Israeli government’s campaign in Gaza meets the legal criteria for genocide. “We all have eyes and we see the absolute devastation and catastrophic death toll in Gaza inflicted by the Israeli government,” he wrote on Instagram. “We all have ears and we hear the genocidal statements by certain senior members of the Israeli government.”
International Debate Over Genocide Accusations
The Israeli government has dismissed the genocide claims as “baseless,” highlighting its efforts to safeguard civilians in the conflict. However, several international bodies, including the United Nations, have concluded that Israel’s actions in Gaza align with the definition of genocide. Wiener’s position reflects the growing ideological divide in U.S. politics, where support for LGBTQ+ rights often intersects with opinions on Israel’s policies.
Despite the backlash, Wiener remains focused on his legislative goals. He continues to advocate for transgender rights, emphasizing that his stance on Gaza does not negate his commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy. The incident has drawn attention to how personal beliefs can create friction at public events, particularly when they challenge the views of attendees. As the Trans March continues to be a symbol of solidarity, the debate over Wiener’s position underscores the complexity of aligning diverse social issues in political discourse.
