A sit-in protest at the U.S. Capitol on Thursday drew attention to a proposed policy aiming to restrict bathroom access for Rep.-elect Sarah McBride, the country’s first openly transgender member of Congress. The demonstration, involving over two dozen trans advocates and allies, occurred outside House Speaker Mike Johnson’s office. The protest specifically opposed a resolution introduced by Rep. Nancy Mace, mandating the use of facilities based on “biological sex.”
The protest saw 15 arrests for violations related to crowding and obstruction, according to Capitol Police. Among those detained were prominent figures such as Chelsea Manning and Raquel Willis, both known for their advocacy in the trans community. Chants like “Our genders are no debate” echoed through the hallways, underscoring the gravity of the protesters’ demands.
A Call to Action Against Discrimination
The demonstrators emphasized the broader implications of Mace’s proposal, framing it as a direct attack on trans rights under the guise of regulating restroom use. “We’re not just symbols for fearmongering,” stated Abby Stein, a rabbi and advocate who participated in the protest. For many, this act of civil disobedience was about reclaiming their humanity and ensuring safety for all individuals in public spaces.
The resolution has been criticized for perpetuating harmful stereotypes and risking the safety of transgender individuals. “This isn’t just about bathrooms; it’s about visibility and the right to exist without fear,” noted Raquel Willis. The event also served as a critique of Democratic inaction, with activists urging party leaders to oppose the measure more forcefully.
Solidarity and Resistance
Chelsea Manning and other participants highlighted the personal stakes involved in this fight, recalling the systemic marginalization that trans individuals face. “I’m here not as a leader, but as someone who stands with my community,” Manning declared, reflecting a shared determination among protesters to combat bigotry.
As debates over trans rights intensify nationwide, the Capitol sit-in underscores the urgent need for legislative and cultural shifts to protect marginalized communities. This protest serves as a reminder of the resilience of the trans community and its allies in the ongoing fight for equality.