Target's transgender policy endangers women, children

Since our children were little, we have talked to them about "stranger danger" and warned them not to take candy from strangers or go with someone "looking for a lost puppy."

We do this because we love them and it is our responsibility to protect them.

We are horrified and grieved when children are kidnapped or raped or murdered. And those headlines make us even more protective.

Statistics estimate that about 5 percent of our population are classified as pedophiles. Other statistics estimate that 19 percent of women have been sexually assaulted. Only about three-tenths of 1 percent of people identify as transgender.

How then can Target enact corporate policy that endangers our children and puts all women at risk of sexual assault? The Target website states "we welcome transgender team members and guests to use the restroom or fitting room facility that corresponds with their gender identity."

Since there is no way to determine the motives of someone who enters these private areas of the store, how easy will it be for a pedophile to walk into a restroom under the guise of being transgender?

Is Target prepared for a multimillion dollar lawsuit when a child or woman is sexually assaulted? Where has our common sense gone?

In the name of inclusivity and equality, are we next headed for co-ed locker rooms and restrooms in middle schools and high schools? Perish the thought.

Even as an adult female I just plain don't want to share a restroom or dressing room with men. It is uncomfortable and embarrassing, even without the risk of assault.

Why not provide single co-ed restrooms or dressing rooms, much like family rooms now in some places?

In the meantime, my grandchildren and I will not enter Target or even shop their online website. Enough!

Janet Kerley

Bradenton

This story was originally published May 1, 2016 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Target's transgender policy endangers women, children ."