In the Philippines, Zara, a Spanish multi-national retail clothing chain, is facing an anti-LGBTQIA accusation after a transgender woman, San Juan City Councilor Louis Marasigan, accused the company’s branch in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) discriminated against her.
In a viral TikTok video, Marasigan said that:
- While trying on clothes in the women’s changing room, she was asked to transfer to the fitting room for men, even if she had clearly stated that she identifies as a trans woman; and
- the manager was dismissive of her experience.
Those working in the LGBTQIA community were critical of what happened to Marasigan.
UP Babaylan, for instance, condemned “the discriminatory behavior exercised by the employees of Zara. The experience of Ms. Marasigan is a manifestation of the challenges and struggles that the trans community experiences. From being denied facilities to being unwelcome to certain vicinities, our trans siblings have been victims of unequal treatment solely because of their gender identity.
Zara claims to be an ally of our community through their projects and products that celebrate the queer movement. However, genuine allyship goes beyond rainbow capitalism.”
The organization now demands for the company “to conduct gender sensitivity trainings and SOGIESC education among their employees and staff. This is fundamental to establish safe spaces within the vicinity of its local stores. Falling short of exercising the principles they claim to align with is mere lip service.”
But there is also a call for the local government unit (LGU) of Taguig to strictly implement its Anti-Discrimination Ordinance to ensure that all forms of SOGIESC-based discrimination is addressed and not one queer individual is violated.
“Our gender identity is not defined by what’s in between our legs. Trans women are women. Trans men are men. Trans people are people. End SOGIESC-based discrimination! Trans rights are human rights!”
