Creating an inclusive environment in hotels is essential for the comfort of all guests.
The Liberty Hotel in Boston suspends a security guard after a lesbian couple, Ansley Baker and Liz Victor, faced inappropriately aggressive treatment in the restroom. The incident, characterized by allegations of mistaken identity, has raised concerns about the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals in public spaces. Following the hotel’s investigation, mandatory retraining for staff on inclusive practices has been promised. The hotel also plans to donate to a local LGBTQ+ advocacy group amid calls for accountability and an apology from the couple.
The Liberty Hotel in Boston has suspended a security guard following an incident that occurred on May 3, involving a lesbian couple, Ansley Baker and Liz Victor. During a Kentucky Derby party hosted by the hotel, Baker was removed from the women’s restroom after the security guard confronted her, incorrectly alleging she was a man.
Baker, who identifies as a cisgender woman, was singled out by the security guard, who reportedly began banging on restroom stall doors and demanded that Baker exit the bathroom. The guard requested her identification to verify her gender, leading to an embarrassing and distressing confrontation. Baker was subsequently escorted out of the restroom amidst derogatory remarks from other women waiting in line. Following this incident, both Baker and Victor were asked to leave the hotel premises.
In an initial statement, the Liberty Hotel indicated that security was alerted by several women about “two adults sharing a stall,” a claim that Baker and Victor have firmly denied. An internal investigation was conducted that led to the decision to suspend the security guard involved in the incident.
The hotel confirmed that they take the incident seriously and have initiated plans for mandatory retraining of all staff focused on inclusive practices and guest interaction protocols. This step aims to prevent similar situations in the future and ensure that all guests feel safe and welcome.
The Liberty Hotel expressed its commitment to standing as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community by announcing a donation to BAGLY, a Boston-based LGBTQ+ youth advocacy organization, in connection with the upcoming International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia on May 17. This gesture comes as part of their effort to reaffirm their support for LGBTQ+ rights amid rising concerns over the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals in public spaces.
Baker and Victor have expressed their dissatisfaction with the Liberty Hotel’s initial claims about their behavior in the restroom. They are seeking a public apology and a retraction of the allegations made against them, emphasizing the need for accountability in this situation.
The incident has sparked significant backlash, highlighting ongoing issues related to anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-trans rhetoric, especially in the context of public restrooms. Local LGBTQ+ advocacy leaders have underscored the critical need for greater awareness and systemic changes to address harassment faced by gender nonconforming individuals in all public spaces.
This situation at the Liberty Hotel not only underscores the challenges still faced by many within the LGBTQ+ community but also presents an opportunity for dialogue and growth regarding inclusion and acceptance in society.
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