The University of Kansas has issued a legal notice to a trans employee for using the women’s restroom on campus, highlighting the impact of a recently enacted state law. Siobhán Kirchstein, a janitor at the Kansas Geological Survey, received an email from Katie Verner, the university’s director of employee relations, informing her of a complaint about her bathroom use in Parker Hall.
This incident underscores the broader implications of Senate Bill 244 passed in February, which restricts trans individuals from using government-owned bathrooms and changing facilities that align with their gender identity. The law also mandates the reversal of gender markers on state-issued documents, reverting them to the sex assigned at birth.
Impact of Senate Bill 244 on Trans Employees
The email Kirchstein received on 10 July began with an acknowledgment of the sensitive nature of the matter. Verner stated that the notice was issued in response to a complaint and to provide awareness of the law, extend an opportunity to be heard, and share resources. According to SB244, public institutions can face fines of up to $25,000 for a first violation and up to $125,000 for additional violations if they are reported to the Kansas Attorney General.
Kirchstein, who has used the women’s restroom on campus for years without incident, expressed shock and fury upon receiving the notice. She pointed out that the area where she works does not have a single-stall restroom that can be used by people of all genders. Verner suggested that Kirchstein could request a different work area with all-gender, single-use restrooms. However, Kirchstein firmly stated, Why should I move myself to a building just so I can use a bathroom that would make other people more comfortable? I’m just going to keep using the bathrooms that make me comfortable because I’m a human being. I have dignity, and telling me that I can’t use a particular bathroom because it makes other people uncomfortable, that takes away from that.
Kirchstein’s Response and Future Actions
In an interview with the Lawrence Times, Kirchstein expressed her determination to continue using the bathrooms that make her comfortable. She stated, I’ll stay until they basically fire me. If that’s what they want to do, that’s what I’ll do. But I have no intention of complying. No intention at all. Kirchstein’s stance highlights the broader struggle for trans rights and the enforcement of discriminatory laws.
The incident at the University of Kansas is not an isolated case. Last year, the university fired transgender student worker Anthony Alvarez for speaking to the press about changes in gender-inclusive housing policies. This pattern of enforcement raises concerns about the university’s commitment to inclusivity and the broader impact of SB244 on trans individuals in Kansas.
Kirchstein’s experience also underscores the challenges faced by trans individuals in navigating public spaces under restrictive laws. Despite the potential consequences, including fines and misdemeanor charges, Kirchstein remains resolute in her stance. She has reached out to advocacy groups and expressed confidence in the support of her community in Lawrence, Kansas.
The enforcement of SB244 at the University of Kansas highlights the ongoing battle for trans rights and the need for continued advocacy and support. As Kirchstein continues to fight for her rights, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination of the trans community in the face of adversity.
