COSTA MESA – More than 30 protesters gathered Wednesday at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, while Target shareholders gathered inside for their annual meeting, to protest the retail chain’s policy that allows customers to choose fitting rooms and restrooms by what best fits their gender identities.

“Boycott Target! Boycott Target!” Mike McGetrick, 62, of Orange shouted through a bullhorn with others following his lead, some waving U.S. flags or holding signs with slogans.

The protest was organized by California Mass Resistance, which advocates for what it considers traditional family values. The group wants Target to reconsider its policy.

“It’s Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve!” shouted organizer Arthur Schaper, 35, of Torrance.

The outcry came on the heels of an April 19 post on Target’s website in which the Minneapolis-based company outlined its policy: “Inclusivity is a core belief at Target. It’s something we celebrate.”

Target spokeswoman Molly Snyder declined further comment.

Wednesday morning, shareholders walked briskly and silently past the protesters or bypassed them altogether.

Target was the first major retailer to take such a prominent position on the issue and won praise from supporters of transgender rights, The Associated Press reported.

Janice Montgomery, 67, of Signal Hill was among the protesters.

“We’re not necessarily afraid of transgender people,” she said. “I’ve got nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and I’m worried that perverts will pretend to be women so they can get into women’s bathrooms.

“I believe it’s a real safety concern, and I don’t feel like I can shop there anymore, which is a shame because I really like Target.”

Said Anne Dauley, 55, of Orange, another protester: “I’m not sure if we’re going to change anybody’s mind today, but I’m very happy that we were seen and heard by these people.”