Although commentary regarding transgender people being allowed to use the bathroom of the gender of their choice appeared to have simmered down lately, this is still a major issue. Peoples' views, especially those from previous generations, often come from a place of narrow-minded thinking which leaves very little space for logical reasoning. Simply because you may not understand something does not make it an invalid concern, or just another thing to sweep under the rug.
Alas; I give you three myths/concerns about this bathroom policy, and hopefully popping those myths quite like an oversized balloon.
1. "I don't want strange men coming into the women's bathroom and assaulting children or other women."
I've noticed many adults say, "I don't want men who think they are women to be using my bathroom and peep on women." They often equate being transgender with pedophilia which actually has no correlation whatsoever. Being transgender does not mean pedophile.
Transgender people, much like cisgender people, actually only use the bathroom for one or two purposes-- and neither of those involves creeping on other women (or men).
2. "But what about small children? It could frighten them."
Children are like sponges-- teach them to respect others and they'll listen. Let them know that it's okay to be different. Hate and love both begin at home. Shielding them from various types of people only makes it harder for them to accept others later in life. They need to be exposed to all types of individuals in order to truly learn acceptance. They need to be taught that gender is an entire spectrum and not always so black-and-white; and that it's perfectly okay.
Children don't hate until they're taught to hate.
3. "It would make me uncomfortable."
You've probably already been in a bathroom with a transgender person before and you're fine. Don't recall sharing a bathroom with a transgender person? That's because it's not always as obvious as you may think. Believe it or not, some transgender individuals actually look exactly like us.
Also, do you typically stare at other people's genitalia when using the bathroom? Do you even see them? No; you just do your business then you continue your day.
For educational purposes, I have included two hyperlinks which could give you a better understanding of the transgender community as well as the bathroom policy. Education is key. Adults from previous generations are often frightened by this stuff because different gender identities were considered taboo and not discussed.
Let's discuss it.
