Restaurant Kicks out Woman for Using the Bathroom

During a bachelorette party Charlotte Clymer, an activist who works with the Human Rights Campaign, was asked for her ID while trying to use the ladies room at D.C. restaurant Cuba Libre Restaurant and Rum Bar in Northwest D.C.

Charlotte, a transgender woman, told the restaurant worker no other woman was required to show ID and was responded with her ID needed to say female in order to use the woman’s room. She proceeded to use the ladies room and was followed in by the restaurant worker. When she exited she was approached by the manager and said worker, who told her it was D.C. law that a woman’s ID needed to say female in order to use the ladies room. Clymer brought up the law and showed that it wasn’t but the manager persisted and threatened to call the cops. When Clymer insisted she wouldn’t leave and that he should call the cops, the manager had the bouncer remove Clymer. Once removed Clymer called the police, showed them her proof and they backed her up.

Clymer’s tweets about the ordeal went viral and it earned her an apology from the restaurant who says they are retraining their employees. Clymer was oppressive about accepting the restaurant’s apology.

D.C. mayors also reached out on twitter to show her support. She apologized to Clymer for her treatment and said that not only was the treatment she received was illegal but against what D.C. stands for. She also applauded the reaction of the D.C. police. Chelsea Clinton also reached out and expressed her sadness due to Clymer’s treatment.

“I am so sorry Charlotte this happened. Not remotely a reflection on you. Thank you for sharing this painful story. As ever, your grace and bravery shine through. Hope you have a great rest of the weekend with your girlfriends.”

This story is truly saddening and disgusting, especially during Pride Month, a month made to celebrate members of the LGBTQ community. No person on this planet should have to deal with the humiliation and discrimination Charolette had to endure but she handled it with grace and wit that many people could learn from, myself included.