Hunters Nightclub, in Elk Grove Village outside of Chicago, recently implemented a new entrance requirement because of cross-dressing prostitutes. However, the new rule (a valid photo ID that matches their "gender presentation") is presenting some issues for transgender people. The Chicago Tribune reports:
"Hunters Nightclub reluctantly imposed its new ID requirement because cross-dressing prostitutes were advertising on Craigslist and mentioning the establishment, said manager Peter Landorf. 'They're implying they're coming here,' said Landorf, whose new rule could cut down on his cross-dressing clientele. 'If it is prostitution in any form, that could cost me my liquor license.'
Under the new admission rule, cross-dressers must have a government-issued photo ID that looks like the person presenting it at the bar. That, of course, is a serious hurdle for people like Andy, a 'part-time transgender woman' who lives in Goshen, Ind., but goes to Chicago to 'dress' as Jeanette.
The ID requirement is unfair, he said.' Since I am not a full-time trans, it is not really feasible for me to have my 'femme' photo on my license,' he said. 'I do not even know if they would allow it. … This is discrimination, pure and simple.'
And, according to Ed Yohnka, spokesman for the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, it could be."
The club's owners say they are working on a solution.
