The World Turned Upside Down

I’m at a world-famous sporting event; it’s half-time. Hundreds of punters are hurrying about to and fro, rushing to grab some refreshments, catch a phone call or text their friends before play resumes in just a few short minutes. Excitement is building; smiles are everywhere. Well, almost everywhere.

As I look from side to side, I notice an odd sight as I gaze across the foyer; a long line of people queuing for the bathrooms. Their faces, a stark contrast to those around them, show a scene of discomfort, frustration; impatience at their current situation. About to miss the resumption of the match, you can see internal struggles occurring as to whether they truly need to go or can avoid it, just to ensure they can get back in time.

And all of this is exacerbated by seeing the line for the bathrooms next door be non-existent, with customers walking straight in; back out at will; no waiting, no mile- long queue. This scene will hardly be alien; we’re well-accustomed to waiting in line to go to the bathroom whilst those of another gender saunter in with ease whenever they choose. We’re used to dealing with this for public bathrooms.

And yet, something has caught my eye. Why is this line for the lavatory holding so much of my attention? Because ladies, for once it’s not us; it’s the gents’ line that appears never-ending, whilst we all walk in with ease. What is this? A sight I have never seen before is playing out right in front of me.

Being so used to being that person waiting in line, weighing up the potential risks; rewards of surrendering my place in search of a shorter wait. Yet when sports are on, the world is in reverse. There’s something satisfying about this; maybe men will finally appreciate the realities of attempting to pee in public as a woman, or how hard it is to get back without missing anything. And maybe, just maybe, it might inspire something more.

The world’s turned upside down.

Written by, Sophie Layton (she/her)