Planet Fitness is currently in the spotlight for its decision to revoke the membership of a patron in Alaska who raised concerns about a “man in women’s locker room shaving.”
Patricia Silva exited the gym in Fairbanks, Alaska, and took to Facebook with a video stating, “I just left Planet Fitness. There is a man shaving in the women’s bathroom.”
She further mentioned that this individual, who identifies as a woman, was in the locker room at the same time as a 12-year-old girl.
A tweet from Libs of TikTok echoed the incident: “Woman in Planet Fitness claims she went into the bathroom and this man who thinks he’s a woman was in there shaving. Why does @PlanetFitness allow men to use the women’s bathroom and invade women’s private spaces??”
Silva expressed her feelings by saying, “I love him in Christ. He is a spiritual being having a human experience. He doesn’t like his gender so he wants to be a woman, but I’m not comfortable with him shaving in my bathroom.”
Planet Fitness responded to the situation by terminating Silva’s membership, explaining to ABC affiliate WDPE, “As the home of the Judgement Free Zone, Planet Fitness is committed to creating an inclusive environment.”
The gym elaborated, “Our gender identity non-discrimination policy allows members and guests to use the gym facilities that correspond with their sincere, self-reported gender identity. The member who posted on social media breached our mobile device policy, which forbids taking photos of individuals in the locker room, leading to the cancellation of their membership.”
According to Planet Fitness’ website, “At Planet Fitness, we celebrate and champion diversity and strive to create an environment where everyone feels accepted, respected, and like they belong. Planet Fitness prohibits discrimination and harassment based on gender identity or gender expression in the workplace and in our clubs. Our corporate policy regarding the accommodation of our members and team members in terms of their gender identity is clear.”
The statement continues, “Planet Fitness prohibits discrimination and harassment based on gender identity or gender expression in the workplace and in our clubs.”
Another tweet from Libs of TikTok highlighted the gym’s stance: “WOW. Planet Fitness is standing by their decision to allow men in women’s locker rooms. Their policies actually allow males in female spaces. They instruct women to just deal with their discomfort and make sure not to misgender the trans person in their locker room.”