Today, in 2016, the idea of gender is progressing. Being a man or woman is no longer confined to a specific sex. In fact, some people are even choosing not to identify as either male nor female. Gender fluidity is becoming a bigger thing, and more and more people are beginning to feel comfortable identifying as their true selves when it pertains to their gender.
According to Google, gender is "the state of being male or female (typically used with reference to social and cultural differences rather than biological ones)." This definition clearly states that gender is a separate entity than one's sex, yet people still seem to intertwine the two. This is where the issue arises. Some people still do not comprehend the idea of being transgender, or gender fluid. It is this lack of understanding, or more so a lack of acceptance that has led to recent issues with Target.
Target, a world-renowned retail chain, is being boycotted due to its recent changes. On their website, it states "in our stores, we demonstrate our commitment to an inclusive experience in many ways. Most relevant for the conversations currently underway, we welcome transgender team members and guests to use the restroom or fitting room facility that corresponds with their gender identity." Target has taken a bold stand for the LGBTQ community, yet they are being criticized for their courageous act of love. Target is striving for equality because as a corporation they believe that "everyone deserves to feel like they belong." They are trying to create an environment of inclusivity, and they are trying to break down the barriers of sexual orientation.
Not surprisingly, a lot of people are lashing out at Target for their new policy. Apparently, promoting equality is a misdemeanor. Over a million people have pledged to boycott Target, due to the misconception that the store "policy endangers women and children by allowing men to frequent women’s facilities." The pledge further claims that the new policy poses a danger because "a man can simply say he feels like a woman today and enter the women's restroom." This is pure ignorance. These people are completely disregarding the fact that the store policy was reevaluated in order to uphold Target's core belief of inclusivity. Rather than creating a threatening setting, they are creating a place of boundless acceptance.
Changing the restroom and the fitting room policy does not encourage men to rape or assault women and children. If a man has the intention to hurt a woman he will do so regardless of Target's policy. I take so much pride in shopping at Target now because I know I am shopping at a place that does not discriminate.
