Position Paper

Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
REGION IV-A CALABARZON
SCHOOLS DIVISION OF BATANGAS PROVINCE
CALATAGAN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
Breaking Stereotypes: Opposition to Third-Restrooms for Transgender People
A Position Paper for
ENGLISH FOR ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL PURPOSES
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
12 Quisumbing
Mrs. Purificacion M. Roxas
Balani, John Florence
Bilog, Julby Mier
Martinez, Arkhee
Padpad, Cedrick
Caunan, Gwyneth Marcia
Corseles, Alexa Roselle
Delmo, Sheena
November 2023
Address: Eugenio Lacaba St., Barangay 2, Calatagan, Batangas 4215

Contact Number: (043) 272-9824
E-mail Address: 342211@deped.gov.ph
Facebook Page: Deped Tayo Calatagan Senior HS - Batangas
Introduction
Let's talk about the idea of having a third restroom for transgender individuals. Some of us don't
agree with it, and here's why. When it comes to gender, there's usually male and female. Now,
introducing a third option might seem like a good idea for inclusivity, but does it unintentionally
disrespect the clear distinction between male and female? Can we find a solution that respects
everyone without adding another restroom? In this paper, we'll look into the reasons opposing a third
restroom for transgender individuals, suggesting that it might not be the best way to promote respect
and understanding.
Body
Some people argue that including a third restroom is a step towards equality, and others are
concerned that it may unintentionally promote the concept of separateness for transgender people.
Separating restrooms based on gender identity, may unintentionally promote the idea that
transgenders are completely distinct from cisgender people. This distinction may contribute to
feelings of isolation and stigma. Rather than promoting a more equal environment, a third restroom
may draw attention to the transgender population, potentially subjecting them to more attention or
even discrimination. These issues can be addressed by education and societal shifts, building an
environment of acceptance that isn't primarily based on bathroom classifications.
This separation will unintentionally threaten the existing binary system of male and female
facilities. This known separation is essential for maintaining gender-related cultural norms and
values. According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, changing
restroom norms might cause confusion and opposition, perhaps limiting acceptance. In addition,

supporters of this viewpoint argue that alternatives, such as gender-neutral facilities open to all, can
better meet the requirements of transgender people without changing the current restroom set-up.
The resistance to third toilets arises mostly from the view that maintaining traditional gender
boundaries is critical for societal stability and understanding.
Everyone needs safe access to public restrooms, including transgender people. Making a
separate restroom for transgender people might accidentally make them feel apart from others
instead of being included in public places. It might make things worse by showing that transgender
people are very different from everyone else. This separation could lead to misconceptions and
make it tough for everyone to get along. Rather than facilitating a sense of belonging for everyone,
the establishment of a separate restroom is feared to potentially result in unfair treatment of
transgender individuals. Instead of uniting people, it might make some feel left out. Gender
segregation is a commonly observed practice in public restrooms, dressing rooms, shelters, jails,
and prisons, intended to ensure safety, order, and security. However, the concept of gender that
underlies the design of these facilities ignores people who do not fit into a binary gender scheme,
particularly transgender people. According to Herman's research titled "Gendered Restrooms and
Minority Stress: The Public Regulation of Gender and its Impact on Transgender People's Lives"
conducted a survey in Washington, DC, seventy percent of transgender respondents reported being
denied access, verbally harassed, or physically assaulted in public restrooms. These incidents
affected respondents' education, employment, health, and participation in public life. One of the
places where transgender people routinely experience harassment, mistreatment, and even violence
is in public restrooms. Implementing another restroom might present practical difficulties. It could be
complicated due to increased construction costs and the need for additional maintenance, and

expensive to properly set up and manage these extra restrooms. Moreover, It's really important to
make spaces where everyone feels welcome. Instead of making separate restrooms, we should
focus on building understanding and promoting cooperation in our existing spaces. This way,
everyone can feel included and valued.
Critics say adding third restrooms might make stereotypes about transgender people worse by
highlighting differences. On the other hand, some suggest these restrooms could be used for
education, starting conversations about gender diversity. They believe this could help dispel myths
and lead to a more understanding society. Instead of separate restrooms, they propose adjusting
existing spaces to meet everyone's needs, avoiding singling out any group. This way, diverse
environments could challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. The idea is that inclusive
restroom designs can contribute to universal acceptance, where everyone is treated equally and
respected, supporting the broader goal of breaking stereotypes and creating a welcoming space for
individuals based on their identity.
Conclusion
Transgender should be treated the same as male and female. creating a separate restroom for
transgender individuals might unintentionally make them feel isolated and lead to
misunderstandings. It could also be costly to set up and maintain. We should focus on promoting
understanding and cooperation in the restrooms we already have, ensuring everyone feels welcome
and valued. This way, we can break stereotypes and build a more inclusive society. Instead of
further dividing restroom facilities, efforts should be directed toward creating environments that
promote inclusivity, understanding, and acceptance for all, regardless of gender identity.

Considering all this, the argument against creating separate restrooms for transgender individuals
is based on concerns that segregation may lead to feelings of exclusion, perpetuate misconceptions,
and result in potential unfair treatment. Gender-segregated facilities often overlook the experiences
of those who don't conform to a binary gender scheme. Instances of harassment against transgender
individuals in public restrooms highlight the need for inclusivity. Instead of introducing additional
complexities and costs, the emphasis should be on building understanding and cooperation in
existing spaces, fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated, and everyone feels included
and valued.
Analysis
The position paper effectively communicates its stance on opposing third restrooms for
transgender individuals, presenting a clear and articulate argument. While the paper lacks
concrete references to specific sources, it articulates its arguments effectively. Four unique
arguments strongly support the thesis: the risk of weakening cultural norms, the potential
promotion of separateness for transgender people, the threat to the present binary system,
and the economic and practical problems connected with establishing third restrooms.
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Republic of the Philippines

Breaking Stereotypes: Opposition to Third-Restrooms for Transgender People

A Position Paper for

ENGLISH FOR ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL PURPOSES

CALATAGAN SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

Mrs. Purificacion M. Roxas

Balani, John Florence

Bilog, Julby Mier

Caunan, Gwyneth Marcia

Corseles, Alexa Roselle

Address: Eugenio Lacaba St., Barangay 2, Calatagan, Batangas 4215

environment of acceptance that isn't primarily based on bathroom classifications.

Address: Eugenio Lacaba St., Barangay 2, Calatagan, Batangas 4215

boundaries is critical for societal stability and understanding.

the establishment of a separate restroom is feared to potentially result in unfair treatment of

Address: Eugenio Lacaba St., Barangay 2, Calatagan, Batangas 4215

everyone can feel included and valued.

individuals based on their identity.

Address: Eugenio Lacaba St., Barangay 2, Calatagan, Batangas 4215

Address: Eugenio Lacaba St., Barangay 2, Calatagan, Batangas 4215

Address: Eugenio Lacaba St., Barangay 2, Calatagan, Batangas 4215

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