A 16-year-old girl has sparked a heated debate online after sharing a viral TikTok video claiming staff at a Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant in Minnesota refused to believe she was a girl.
Gerika Mudra, the teenager at the centre of the controversy, filmed herself confronting employees who allegedly insisted she was male despite her protests. The video has since gone viral, amassing millions of views and sparking outrage among viewers.
What Happened at Buffalo Wild Wings?
In the now-viral clip, Mudra can be heard arguing with staff who apparently questioned her gender identity. "They kept telling me I wasn't a girl," the teen explains in the video. "I showed them my ID, but they still didn't believe me."
The incident reportedly occurred when Mudra visited the restaurant with friends. According to her account, staff members became suspicious about her gender when she used the women's restroom.
Social Media Backlash
The video quickly gained traction on TikTok, with many users expressing support for Mudra and condemning the restaurant's alleged actions. Comments flooded in criticising what viewers saw as gender discrimination and invasion of privacy.
However, some social media users questioned whether there might be more to the story, suggesting the video might not show the full context of the interaction.
Buffalo Wild Wings Responds
When contacted for comment, representatives from Buffalo Wild Wings stated they were investigating the incident. "We take all customer concerns seriously," a spokesperson said. "Our team is looking into this matter to understand what occurred."
The company emphasised its commitment to inclusivity, adding: "We strive to create a welcoming environment for all guests regardless of gender identity or expression."
Broader Implications
This incident comes amid growing national conversations about gender identity and bathroom access policies in the United States. While Minnesota has protections for transgender individuals, cases like this highlight ongoing challenges in public accommodations.
Legal experts note that questioning someone's gender based on appearance could potentially violate anti-discrimination laws in some jurisdictions.
As the story continues to develop, it raises important questions about how businesses should handle similar situations while respecting all customers' rights and dignity.
