A recent selfie posted by a transgender woman underscores the irrational nature of the ongoing bathroom debate. If Lily Anderson were to enter a ladies’ restroom, there would be no drama, no scandal, and no unease—just a woman using a facility alongside other women. Lily is transgender.
The discourse surrounding restroom access has intensified after Target reaffirmed its policy allowing employees and customers to use the bathroom that aligns with their gender identity. This commitment to inclusivity is not new; Target has always stood for equal rights. In response to the North Carolina law passed in March that mandates transgender individuals to use restrooms corresponding to their birth certificates, Target made a strong statement about its values.
Lily’s post highlights the absurdity of the claims made against transgender individuals. “Here I am, using a women’s restroom in North Carolina, which I’m technically prohibited from entering,” she wrote. “They label me a pervert, accuse me of being a man in a dress, claim I’m a danger to children, and suggest that acknowledging my identity signals the decline of our society.” For many who recognize Lily as a woman simply trying to live her life authentically, the arguments surrounding these bathroom regulations are utterly nonsensical.
In her post, she further questions the rationale behind the opposition. “Is the suggestion that these two men should use the women’s restroom absurd, while these two women should enter the men’s? That’s not only ridiculous but also poses a real threat to trans women,” Lily remarked. Critics often argue that allowing transgender individuals access to the appropriate restroom opens a door for potential predators. Yet, the same people seem to ignore that the real issue of sexual assault isn’t confined to the restroom and that many instances occur with individuals known to the victim.
Should we really allow the fear of a few male predators to dictate public policy and infringe on the rights of transgender people, who are merely seeking to live their lives with dignity? “I’m simply a person, like everyone else, trying to relieve myself in peace,” Lily stated. “Denying me access to the restroom doesn’t protect anyone, but allowing me to use the restroom without fear of harassment doesn’t harm anyone either.”
The safety of our children is not compromised by allowing transgender individuals to use the appropriate restrooms. If your limited perspective makes you uneasy, it’s worth recognizing that understanding often comes from exposure. As a wise saying goes, “Forgive yourself for not knowing what you didn’t know before you learned it.” At any point, one can choose to embrace acceptance and realize that transgender individuals are not a danger to society; they simply want the same rights we all enjoy.
Lily concluded her impactful post with a plea: “Stop this. We are good people.” As a recent writer aptly noted, “Stop using your children as a reason to harbor hate.” To foster a more compassionate and accepting society, we must evolve and recognize the humanity in each other.