Privilege and Pride

I've just gotten off of work with LYRIC. Today was one of those informative, yet stressful days. During a discussion about the upcoming beach party, it was brought to our attention that we should make suggestions to everyone in attendance to keep all articles of clothing on at the beach. This immediately raised the question: Why? I feel that at the beach, on a nice day it is perfectly acceptable to go around topless. However, gender confines prohibit those of us who are Bio-female or Female perceived to do so by Law. I understand coming from a professional perspective that perhaps I, a LYRIC staff member, should set an example. What I do not understand is why my comfort level, which is no less valid than anyone else's, should be compromised. I bring up this point only to be attacked by a gender neutral person in attendance who said that I "would use my privilege to sacrifice the comfort of a co-worker" Which, obviously was not my intent at all. Disregarding that words had just been put in my mouth, I proceeded to point out that while LYRIC is trying to make it a safe and comfortable space for everyone, which means I am not going to be going topless despite my desire to do so, it still exists within a society where that is the way it is. It's unfortunate that some of us can't express the way we would like to but, does that mean that everyone should be made to feel uncomfortable? If the issue had been approached in a different, less aggressive way, I would have totally seen it hir way. But, ze had to go about it in hir usual confrontational way which is generally not conducive to conflict resolution. I feel that we did come to an agreement (not necessarily a compromise) but, I also feel that I am being censored in my expression which is exactly what ze says ze is trying to fight against. It's sad that the community must feel divided on the simple issue of attire. It's also sad that now we must police our attendees into adhering to a dress code. So much for community building, eh?