Political flashpoints or human beings?
The Sept. 29 letter from Jay Schechter lays out a clear case for supporting State Rep. Jonah Wheeler. He does not represent my district, so I am not familiar with him or his politics. A quick search online suggests he is a thoughtful and effective leader.
However, Rep. Wheeler voted to support House Bill 148, which stipulates that public bathroom use must align with “biological sex.” It is well-accepted in the scientific community that biological sex is not a binary. What standard will be used to challenge an “interloper” in a restroom? Appearance? Many women do not match what society deems “feminine,” so there are sure to be mistakes made, perhaps involving you or someone in your family. A transgender man using the women’s room as directed by the bill would certainly cause a brouhaha. Genitalia? Surely we cannot institute “potty police” who invade the privacy of people simply because they make others uncomfortable. Genetics? Anyone basing their understanding of sex and gender as the presence of XX or XY chromosomes needs to update their grade school understanding of biology.
Transgender folks are so much more likely to be the victims of assault than the perpetrators. If they break the law, of course they should face justice like anyone else. Otherwise, they deserve our respect, care, and protection. Bills like 148 do not protect women, but they do victimize a vulnerable group in our society.
According to the letter, Rep. Wheeler “listened to concerned parents and voted his conscience” on House Bill 148. Later in the letter, Schechter points out that Wheeler heard from other constituents who were unhappy with his decision. I have to wonder if he “listened” to a small but very vocal minority to inform his conscience and vote.