I haven’t had much interaction with a lot of these different diversity and inclusion groups but can imagine the conversation going like this.
Them: Hi thanks for contacting us what’s your concern?
Me: I’m looking for support as I’m being discriminated against.
Them: Are you lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer? LGBTQ
Me: No.
Them: Are you black, indingonus or person of color? BIPOC
Me: No.
Them: I don’t understand, can you explain?
Me: I’m a male that wears skirts and dresses sometimes and have been told to leave or change clothes.
Them: Ah so your transgender, we might be able to help you with that.
Me: No, I’m still male when I wear a skirt or dress.
Them: So a crossdresser?
Me: No, I don’t change my appearance just because I’m wearing a shirt or dress.
Them: I’m sorry but we only cater to people who don’t have a choice based on their skin color or sexual preference.
Me: So inclusion is not all inclusive?
Them: No.
Me: So while my mom can wear pants, skirts, dresses, and not have to change her appearance to do so. I would have to completely change my appearance if I wore a skirt or dress to be treated the same as her. Is that what you’re saying?
Them: No, white cisgender males are not included in our diversity group even though they could be discriminated against for their choice of attire.
Me: And why is that?
Them: Your not LGBTQ or BIPOC and what clothing you wear is a choice.
Me: But I’m being discriminated against!
Them: Sorry, but we can’t help.
Me: Do you have any suggestions?
Them: Have you tried a men’s rights advocacy group?
Me: Yes, but they are focused on other forms of discrimination like parental rights.
Them: Where do you live?
Me: Ohio
Them: It’s not legal in Ohio to discriminate based on sex in Ohio.
Me: I know that, but I was still asked to leave for wearing the same clothing as the female customers who were there and not asked to leave.
Them: I’m sorry, but your discrimination is not included in our diversity and inclusion mission, I suggest seeking legal advise.
Me: I guess Webster’s was wrong.