Fact Check: Did Houston campaign in 2015 against the gender identity based discrimination is often framed as protecting women and girls in public bathroom?

What We Know

In 2015, Houston voters faced a referendum on the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO), which aimed to prohibit discrimination based on various factors, including gender identity and sexual orientation. The ordinance was passed by the City Council but was later repealed by voters, with 61% opposing it and 39% in favor (New York Times). Opponents of the ordinance framed their campaign around the idea that it would allow men to enter women's bathrooms, thereby posing a threat to women and girls. This narrative was a central theme in the campaign against HERO, with slogans like "No Men in Women’s Bathrooms" prominently displayed (Washington Post).

The campaign against HERO was characterized by fearmongering tactics, suggesting that the ordinance would enable male sexual predators to access women's restrooms (Texas Tribune). Proponents of HERO, including Houston's then-mayor Annise Parker, argued that the ordinance was necessary to protect the rights of all citizens and that the claims of increased danger were unfounded and exaggerated (Slate).

Analysis

The claim that the campaign against HERO was framed as protecting women and girls in public bathrooms is substantiated by multiple sources. The opponents of HERO effectively shifted the narrative from a discussion about equal rights to one centered on the safety of women and girls, using the bathroom access issue as a focal point (Guardian). This strategy was not only prevalent in campaign materials but also echoed in public statements from key figures, such as Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who emphasized the need to protect "our grandmoms, and our mothers and our wives" (New York Times).

However, the claims made by opponents were criticized as fearmongering. Supporters of HERO pointed out that the ordinance did not explicitly allow men to enter women's restrooms and that the fears expressed were largely unfounded (Texas Tribune). The framing of the debate as one of safety versus rights is a common tactic in similar legislative battles across the United States, often leading to divisive and emotionally charged campaigns (Slate).

The sources used in this analysis are credible and well-regarded, including major news outlets like The New York Times and The Washington Post, which have a history of thorough reporting on social issues. These sources provide a balanced view of the events surrounding the HERO campaign and the subsequent voter referendum.

Conclusion

The claim that the Houston campaign in 2015 against gender identity-based discrimination was framed as protecting women and girls in public bathrooms is True. The campaign against HERO effectively utilized the narrative of safety to galvanize opposition, despite the ordinance's intent to protect against discrimination. This strategic framing played a significant role in the eventual repeal of the ordinance by voters.

Fact Check: Did Houston campaign in 2015 against the gender identity based discrimination is often framed as protecting women and girls in public bathroom?