'AITA for exposing my coworker's bathroom habits?'

In a small office setting, a disagreement occurred involving two employees over bathroom habits and personal beliefs. One employee, who identifies as cisgender, was subjected to unfounded accusations of being transgender by a colleague with socially conservative views. The colleague’s criticism arose from an incident where the restroom was used in a manner the colleague found unusual, leading to a misunderstanding about the employee’s gender identity.

During a lunch discussion on women’s sports, the colleague made a derogatory comment that seemed to be based on incorrect assumptions about the employee’s gender. In response, the employee clarified their position on transgender rights and attempted to lighten the mood with a joke about public restroom habits. This reaction caused the colleague to become visibly upset and leave the room.

The situation raised concerns among other staff members, who believed the employee’s response was rude for highlighting the colleague’s private restroom habits. However, the employee argues that their actions were a necessary reaction to the colleague’s inappropriate and incorrect remarks. They emphasize that outing someone based on misinformation can be quite offensive and harmful.

The incident underscores the sensitivity required in addressing personal and political beliefs in the workplace, especially when it involves misunderstandings and private matters. The employee plans to discuss the issue with HR to address any potential implications and prevent future conflicts.