An Australian TV star has called out “sexist double standards” after being told to “cover-up” at a Sydney swimming pool when sunbathing topless.
Kathleen Ebbs, a non-binary influencer, explained they had been enjoying the recent warmer weather with a visit to Dawn Fraser Baths in the city’s inner west when they were approached by a lifeguard.
Kathy stated they knew immediately the issue was with the fact they were topless, pointing out that none of the men were wearing tops.
However, the lifeguard revealed “someone complained because there’s children around”, resulting in Kathy being issued a warning and questioning the pool’s apparent policy.
The queer artist – who was cast as the first ever non-binary character on Neighbours – told news.com.au the real issue here was that “boobs had been sexualized by the male gaze and the patriarchy”.
“Boobs are not innately sexual, and we know that because children don’t see them as such but society does,” Kathy said.
“I think there’s an element of gender diversity and as we enter a more gender-inclusive world things like being able to walk around without your top off is really important to that movement.
“It doesn’t make any sense to me that men, and male presenting people, can have their nipples and boobs out but we can’t.”
After the incident, Kathy, who is best friends with social media personality Abbie Chatfield, took to Instagram to share their frustrations and was met with wide praise from followers.
“Children are probably the only f–king individuals that aren’t sexualizing my boobs,” Kathy explained.
“Because kids don’t see gender and sexuality and bodies in that way. It’s not until we get taught.
“Your parents will literally let you get dressed in public and then you hit a certain age, like 10, and then all of the sudden there’s this emphasis on covering up your boobs.
“All of the sudden your ‘private parts’ aren’t yours anymore. Why? because of the f–king patriarchy and because of the male gaze and because of the society we live in.”
Kathy went on to say that “as a non-binary person I personally feel more sexualized and dysphoric when I have a bikini top on” and called on Sydney’s Inner West Council for more information on the policy after failing to find anything about it online.
“The man that f–king complained used the kids as bait for his uncomfortably,” they said. “My genderless tits are an issue to you and you can’t just admit that, instead you have to use kids as ammunition for why I have to cover up.”
Kathy’s video has been viewed almost 70,000 times since it was shared on Tuesday, with many people commenting to share their disappointment.
“This is so frustrating and upsetting,” one wrote.
“Makes me really uncomfortable that a man in Speedos is speaking for the kids about this topic, for so many reasons. Like who is he? How disturbing. I’m sorry about your experience, the world is bonkers,” another added.
As another raged: “This is so f–ked! What did they do after you asked them for their policy? Did they provide anything? Were you able to stay?”
“This is a blatant example of sexist double standards,” one mused.
Others said Kathy was “right” and had shown “strength” by sharing their experience.
“All of this is soooo true Kath!!! Love it!!! You rock!!!” one applauded.
News.com.au has contacted the Inner West Council for comment.
