Transgender groups to discuss nightclub's ID policy

When Hunters nightclub, a gay bar in Elk Grove Village, announced in August that patrons would have to show ID matching their gender presentation, it angered some in the transgender community who don't dress as the opposite sex all the time.

Several transgender rights organizations called for a boycott of Hunters, saying the policy discriminates against trans folk. But it's a sticky situation.

Hunters manager Peter Landorf told the Tribune at the time that some cross-dressing prostitutes were advertising online and mentioning Hunters. It could cost him his liquor license if his bar was linked with prostitution. He wanted government-issued IDs to match what the person looks like when they enter the bar.

To discuss the topic, the group Gender Queer Chicago has organized an "informational conversation" about the Hunters door policy and transgender rights for 7 p.m. Monday at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. State Rep. Greg Harris (D-13th) is moderating. The public is invited.

The owner of Hunters wasn't immediately available to confirm whether a representative from the nightclub planned to attend.