A Question Regarding Crossdresser's Rights

[Guest bobbiw]

Hi Ladies,

With all the news stories recently on bathroom and locker room access for transgender individuals, it got me thinking if or how LGBT rights apply to crossdressers? The question lead to me do some internet searches and reading. As best I can tell, crossdressers are not covered by the same rights and protections as transgender individuals.

If this is the case, it could present quite a dilemma when out en femme. If one were to chose the women's room and another occupant were to object, if my understanding is correct, as a crossdresser we could be arrested. On the other hand, using the men's room while out en femme could lead to a hostile or even violent response from male presenting occupants.

I am interested to know if anyone has studied this issue and can shed more light on the legal aspects of this subject. Are there any states or major metropolitan areas where we as crossdressers have the same protections as transgendered individuals?

Hugs,

Bobbi

[Carolyn Marie]

Laws regarding restroom access and other TG rights vary from state to state and city to city, so my best advice is to check on those specific to your area. Most of the laws I've seen cover "transgender" individuals, and that usually, but not always, includes cross dressers. It becomes complicated by the fact that few if any CDers will have new identity documents or even "carry letters" that could offer some protection in the event of being challenged.

I know several cross dressers, and what they do when out in public, and what I advise you to do, is use single use restrooms wherever possible. The other thing that helps is to go out with other cross dressers such as those from Tri-Ess. They usually plan outings to places that are trans friendly.

Carolyn Marie

[Guest Clair Dufour]

In Colorado you can use any bathroom you want and not be arrested. It is how a person identifies, no paperwork required. Obviously, one should use good judgment.

[Guest AshleighP]

Interesting question and one I have wondered about myself. I don't believe there will ever be a definitive answer. There will always be people who don't (or refuse to) understand what it's like to be a crossdresser. It will be interesting to see when the laws change if we (cder's) will be included or left to fend for ourselves.

[Guest Eve Caillard]

The UK, as usual, ignores the question. I have to use the male bathrooms despite the fact I feel intimidated and uncomfortable in them. I always use the cubicles anyway because I prefer to sit.

I think this whole question will drag on for a few years. But I do see signs of relaxation and change - even here in the UK.

[Guest Clair Dufour]

I didn't know the UK had not resolved that. Is that national or up to the councils? Using the stalls is a good point. I bet there like here, the law and all is ignored at concerts and football matches with women taking over the stalls in the mens? For that and other reasons, I make it a point to spend my money at LGBT friendly places.