Genderqueer University of Texas Student Accuses Whataburger of Discrimination

A University of Texas student who identifies as genderqueer (and whose preferred pronouns are they/them) alleges Whataburger denied them entrance because they were dressed in self-described "drag." According to The Statesman, Tyler Grant attempted to go into the Whataburger at 2800 Guadalupe early Saturday morning, only to be turned away:

A DPS trooper working security for the restaurant stopped Grant at the entrance and said that no one could enter the restaurant without putting on shoes, Grant said in a telephone interview Tuesday.

Grant complied and put on the heels they were carrying on their hands, but the DPS officer then asked them about being in drag, Grant said.

"He said ‘You have to put your shoes on,' and then he said, ‘Oh wait, are you a dude?'" Grant said. "I responded that it was not a very polite question to ask."

The Statesman also links over to a video of the exchange, taken by one of Grant's friends. Whataburger denied the refusal was caused by Grant's gender expression, and provided the following statement to the paper:

Whataburger is proud to serve all customers regardless of race, gender or orientation. This wasn't an issue of gender but of appropriate attire as this guest was dressed in lingerie. Again, we welcome everyone into our restaurants but our customers' experience is our top priority. We are reviewing these events with our team members and will take appropriate action if needed.