Throughout human history, bathrooms have been a commonplace installment. Whether in the home, a bar, or even at the local shopping mall, bathrooms are made to be widely accessible. This is the way things have always been.
Bathroom Politics
That is, until recently. In the past few years bathrooms, much like many other niche areas of daily life, have become the nesting area for political animosity. The dual over who gets to use what restroom has become so hotly debated, states are passing intense legislation.
Fear for GenderQueer
For most people, deciding what bathroom to use is easy. However, trans and nonbinary people have lived in fear of this decision. With state governments continuing to police peoples bodies, the US is becoming more and more a terrifying place for genderqueer adults and youth.
Hatred Pending
Terrifying places include Mississippi, who just passed the controversial SAFER Act into effect.
This new law, which is aimed at policing bathroom and other facility usage for transgender individuals in the state, currently awaits Governor Reeves’ signature.
Lasting Impact
In response, political experts and analysts make claims on the potential long-term political repercussions of its approval. First introduced by conservative Rep. Joey Hood, the bill has garnered criticism from Democrats, activists, as well as the public.
Reflections of a Nation
Mississippi’s political move highlights the increasing rift being experienced nationally. The SAFER Act’s political fallout could hinder elections, policymaking, and social progress for years to come.
Charging Up Voters
One significant impact of the SAFER Act’s enactment is the potentially polarizing voters to choose party over person. Critics state that the law not only impedes the rights of transgender individuals, but also inspires panic and divide.
Chasms Opening
This feeling of fear could widen the gap between conservative and liberal politicians. Discourse on the topic could sway the electoral processes of future votes, forcing candidates to adopt increasingly partisan stances on social policy to ensure support.
Malicious Motivation
Additionally, the SAFER Act might act as a benchmark for conservative legislators and governors across the country, encouraging other states to develop identical policies. Several conservative-leaning states like Texas and Oklahoma might follow in Mississippi’s shoes.
Fired Up Activists
While conservatives rejoice, more left-leaning individuals are likely to be outraged. This trend could provoke backlash from queer activists, non profit groups, and the general public, leading to grassroots organizing and skyrocketing political tensions.
Bad Move
Moreover, proponents of the SAFER Act are also likely to suffer. Such incendiary work allows for an impact on their political careers. Republican lawmakers, like Hood and Speaker Pro Tempore Dean Kirby, have staked their reputations on the bill’s proposal.
Standing Up or Standing Out
In contrast, Democrats like Rep. Jeffrey Hulum III have stood in firm opposition, quoting worries about its implications for civil liberties and questioning state’s priorities. Depending on the fluid attitudes of voters, this stance could be potentially rewarding or punishing in future years.
Losing Funds
The bill’s passing could also lead to a surge of lawsuits declaring it unconstitutional. State’s like Mississippi could face a subtraction of resources and time in litigation, offsetting focus from other pressing matters the state wants to handle.
Taking an Overturn
Legal battles could result in the law being overturned or amended, angering the public in wasted time and energy. Likewise, lack of full removal of the dicey ruling could further fuel the ongoing debate over transgender rights and civil liberties.
Boycotting Bathrooms
Those opposed to the SAFER Act argue that its approval could diminish the state’s economic prospects, as well as its reputation. Major company activity, annual events, and tourism may decrease, as investors fear being associated with Mississippi politics.
Staring Into the Future
A similar case was seen in North Carolina. Back in 2016, the state faced overwhelming economic dives after passing a similar law, with businesses and sports organizations avoiding the state.
Shifting Lines
As the political geography continues to shift under the SAFER Act’s passage, one fact remains evident: the long-term ramifications of this legislation will bleed far beyond Mississippi’s borders as it makes national headlines.
Not So Valorous
Whether or not politicians come to an agreement is yet to be determined. As of now, however, tensions are more likely to rise than to be assuaged. But what else should be expected from a state whose motto is “by valor and arms”.
The post Mississippi Anti-Trans Bathroom Law Fuels Division in the ‘Hospitality State’ first appeared on Pulse of Pride.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Erica Finstad.
