Initiative keeps women safe in public facilities

April was Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to listen to survivors and consider ways to prevent further harm. As a rape survivor myself, I was shocked to learn that our state’s HRC imposed a new statewide rule granting open access to women’s most intimate spaces without consulting those of us most deeply affected by it. I believe an important way to support women like me is to reverse this rule by supporting I-1552.

My rapist assumed a false identity to convince me he was only interested in friendship before drugging and violating me. I am vigilant about my boundaries. I use lockable single-occupant showers at the pool, and when I use camp showers or restrooms at public parks, my husband stands guard outside.

Despite my caution, a man recently entered my restroom at a restaurant. Not knowing his intent was unnerving. I can understand how a person who suffers from gender dysphoria might feel uncomfortable in sex-specific facilities, but the new rule in Washington allows any man to access women’s spaces as long as he claims an identity other than male. What about my comfort?

If you research Washington police statistics, you’ll find numerous assaults against women in locker rooms and showers. The poorly-worded law provides a significant loophole for predators, making a bad problem even worse.

Everyone deserves both safety and privacy. I-1552 is the only option on the table that offers this.

Support women like me by visiting www.justwantprivacy.org and saying yes to I-1552.

Cathy Phillips

Tacoma