Janet Mock Addresses Conflict with Piers Morgan on The Colbert Report

    On Tuesday’s “The Colbert Report,” transgender-activist Janet Mock appeared on the show to discuss transmisogyny in the media. Mock specifically addressed her recent dispute with Piers Morgan on his television show and on Twitter. After the airing of her first appearance on Morgan’s show, Mock tweeted her disappointment in the way she was misgendered and represented. “I was not ‘formerly a man.’ Please stop sensationalizing my life and misgendering trans women,” wrote Mock.     During her appearance on the Colbert Report, Mock elaborated on the conflict between herself and Morgan. “I think that me and Piers had an issue with speaking across privilege, across difference and across experience,” said Mock. “They used very problematic language that showed their lack of understanding and I think, our wider culture’s lack of understanding.” Mock felt that her interview with Morgan focused too much on her past, specifications on her gender and transition, which derailed discussion of the more important issues facing the trans community. “The book’s purpose is to elevate the issues that are facing young trans women,” said Mock. “Trans people deal with daily access issues like being able to safely leave their home, being able to walk on the street without being harassed...being able to afford medical care.”     Morgan is offended by Mock’s accusations. He claims to be an “ally” to the trans community and accused Colbert of being an “enabler” to Mock’s “whining.” “Shame that @StephenAtHome bought into @janetmock's 'victim' BS last night,” tweeted Morgan. “He's a smart guy, better than that.” After Mock called-out Morgan’s offensive misgendering and framing of her story, many trans activists followed suit on Twitter. Rather than considering Mock’s grievances with her segment and the upset from the trans community, Morgan jumped to the defensive. “A lot of very irate people accusing me of 'transphobia' because I devoted a third of my show to @JanetMock 's inspiring story...weird,” tweeted Morgan. He continued by saying that he was being unfairly “attacked” by the trans community and that he wished he had never invited Mock to appear on his show. Morgan ended his rant by tweeting, “As for all the enraged transgender supporters, look at how STUPID you're being. I'm on your side, you dimwits.”

Watch Mock's full interview with Colbert below: 

   
Watch Mock's second interview with Morgan below: