The bud light controversy, much like the constant conversation around gender theory and other aspects demonized by conservative pundits has brought gender issues to the forefront. As someone who spends considerable amounts of time in public spaces surrounded by moderate and conservative older Americans, here's what I have found. Conservatives are more than happy to give you the space to be you. Want to be a woman, they'll treat you like a woman. Want to be non-conforming? They might roll their eyes but, hey, you be you. Where they tend to draw the line is when you get preachy and defensive about the topic. I don't know how many times I have been out and have somehow ended up on this topic during casual conversations. They aren't out to get us freaks, they just "don't see the need to have this stuff shoved down our throats."