Why the Fuss Over Trans People Using Washrooms?

Ever wondered what's with all the buzz about where trans and gender-diverse folks do their business? You're not alone. Turns out, the drama over washroom use is less about reality and more about fear-mongering.
 
For decades, some conservative groups have played the fear card to rally support. By tapping into fears, they hope to score votes. But this tactic isn't new; it's a rehash of past discrimination tactics against minorities, like preventing Black and Indigenous folks from sharing washrooms with white people, or keeping gay men out of certain facilities.
 
Trans people simply want to use the facilities in peace and move on with their day. Transgender women, in particular, face a double fear: violence or harassment in men's washrooms, which some politicians are trying to push them towards, and the fear of being outed (or even arrested in many places!) in women's facilities. With these proposed laws in place, where can transgender people go for a safe and dignified bathroom break?
 
Rather than targeting trans individuals as a source of fear, let's focus on real safety concerns. Stats show that women face far greater risks from cisgender men in washrooms than they do from trans people. Instead of fear-mongering, why not invest in making public spaces safer for everyone? Who doesn’t want good lighting, good locks, privacy options and high visibility of entrances into public spaces? Those things make sense -- scapegoating doesn’t.
 
Countries like Iceland lead the way by embracing inclusivity and creating welcoming washrooms and changerooms for everyone, including gender-diverse people. Their approach is proven to foster social harmony and reduce crime. Check out my recent Instagram video about the topic while working in Iceland here.   
 
So, let's prioritize safety, dignity, and inclusivity over fear. After all, the real issue isn't about who uses which washroom—it's about making them safe and dignified for everyone.