Moss Pride faces leadership resignation amid transgender inclusion debate

Moss Pride is facing significant internal conflict following the inclusion and subsequent removal of the lesbian synthpop band Hungry Hearts, an organization representing LHB Norge. The controversy centers on a fundamental disagreement within the movement regarding the inclusion of transgender individuals in the LHB (lesbian, homosexual, bisexual) community.

Following the band's removal from the program, the festival's leader, Charlotte Nordlund, resigned. The dispute has led to several consequences, including the Human-Etisk Forbund Moss withdrawing from the festival and various political parties announcing boycotts. Additionally, drag artist Jenny Ellefsen has initiated an alternative event for those who no longer wish to attend the official Pride festival.

The core of the debate involves differing views on identity: LHB Norge operates on the principle that sexual orientation follows biological sex, whereas opposing groups argue that gender identity is the determining factor and that excluding trans women constitutes transphobia.