Activist Billboard Chris Arrested in Brussels for Standing Against Transgender Treatments for Minors

Activist Billboard Chris Arrested in Brussels for Standing Against Transgender Treatments for Minors

In a recent incident that has sparked significant debate about free speech, conservative activists were arrested in Brussels, Belgium for displaying signs opposing transgender medical treatments for children. The event, which occurred on Thursday, has raised alarms regarding the protection of free expression in Europe.

Chris Elston, widely recognized as “Billboard Chris,” along with Lois McLatchie Miller, who serves as a senior legal communications officer for Alliance Defending Freedom International, shared their experiences with Fox News Digital shortly after their release. They had been taken into custody following a confrontation with a hostile crowd.

Elston, known for his eye-catching protests highlighting his stance against transgender medical care for minors, stood in the heart of Brussels with McLatchie Miller. They donned billboards that carried messages such as “Children are never born in the wrong body” and “Children cannot consent to puberty blockers.” Their aim was to raise awareness about their beliefs regarding these medical interventions for youth.

While Elston’s travels often garner positive feedback, he noted that the reception in Brussels was overwhelmingly negative. This stark contrast has left him concerned about the state of open dialogue in the city.

“It was pretty much non-stop abuse and harassment,” Elston recounted to Fox News Digital. He added that his experience in Brussels felt like being in the “most woke city” he had encountered over his five years of campaigning.

Elston described a specific incident where a glass bottle was thrown at them, narrowly missing a young girl. There were persistent warnings from passersby about potential aggression from groups such as Antifa. Elston’s recounting reflects the tense atmosphere that enveloped their protest.

Call for Protection Leads to Arrest

Amid ongoing harassment, the duo sought assistance from local authorities. However, instead of receiving protection, they were warned that their signs would result in their arrest if not removed. Following this, they were detained, subjected to strip searches, and their signs were confiscated before being released three hours later without any formal charges.

“They put us in handcuffs but eventually let us go. It seemed like they wanted to clear us out rather than confront the unruly crowd,” Elston explained.

A Mission Cut Short

Elston and McLatchie Miller’s goal in Brussels was to share their views and discuss policy matters with lawmakers in the European Parliament.

McLatchie Miller expressed her astonishment at the abrupt turn of events, noting her typical role in advocating for free speech rather than experiencing its suppression firsthand. “I didn’t expect to encounter such hostility here in Brussels. However, it highlights a crucial need for protecting freedom of expression in Europe,” she stated.

The Growing Concern Over Free Speech in Europe

This incident follows a growing concern voiced by various officials, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance. During a speech in Munich earlier this year, he referred to disturbing instances where freedom of expression is being eroded across Europe. He cited cases like that of a British army veteran arrested for silent prayer in an abortion buffer zone, warning that Europe appears to be moving away from shared democratic values and towards a model of censorship reminiscent of the Soviet era.

In her remarks, McLatchie Miller posited that her experience in custody represents a broader crisis regarding free speech in Europe. She emphasized the need for societies to celebrate and protect diverse viewpoints, especially in democratic nations.

“If free speech is not upheld in Brussels, which claims to be the heart of democracy in Europe, then it casts doubt on the accessibility of free speech across the continent,” she remarked.

The Current Climate Surrounding Transgender Treatments for Minors

Elston’s arrest coincides with a global movement questioning practices related to transitioning minors. He noted shifting attitudes within several European nations, including Finland and the United Kingdom, where there is a growing reluctance to provide puberty blockers to children with gender dysphoria.

He believes there is a burgeoning consensus on the matter that transcends political lines, as he engages with people from various backgrounds who question the effects of transitioning young individuals. He highlighted that this issue has emerged as a key motivator for voters in the upcoming 2024 elections.

“In the U.S., this concern about transgender issues resonated deeply with voters, prompting many to reevaluate their political affiliations. It has become an undeniable issue that drew many away from the Democratic Party,” he stated.

A Call to Action for Free Speech Advocates

In light of their experience, Elston and McLatchie Miller are calling for greater scrutiny and protection of free speech rights globally. They argue that fostering a healthy public discourse is essential for democratic societies.

As they reflect on their experience, they remain committed to advancing their message of support for children. They argue that every child deserves understanding and affirmation rather than medical interventions.

As the dialogue surrounding gender identity and medical treatments for minors continues to evolve, incidents like this highlight the challenges and risks faced by those who voice dissenting opinions. The implications for free speech in Europe cannot be overstated, as activists and concerned citizens alike navigate an increasingly polarized environment.

Brussels police have yet to comment on the incident, leaving many questions unanswered about the approach to free speech in the European capital. While tensions escalate, advocates like Elston and McLatchie Miller remain undeterred in their mission to promote their beliefs regarding children’s rights and medical choices.