When I first heard about the recent changes Chico State made to accommodate transgender students by adding unisex bathrooms in the Bell Memorial Union I was taken aback.
I was unfamiliar with this concept and although I have no ill feelings towards people who identify with being transgender, I found it unnecessary. But after visiting these bathrooms my skepticism was put aside.
These bathrooms are great.
They may have come about by the work of a dedicated transgender student, but they serve for much more than that. They are there to make everyone feel safe and comfortable.
Much like a coed or handicap single stall bathroom, the unisex bathroom provides privacy for all. The sign outside these bathrooms reads, “All gender restrooms: Anyone can use this restroom regardless of gender identity or expression.”
Chico State has embraced the changing of the times by adding these bathroom facilities. I think it is a beautiful sign of acceptance for and from the students of Chico State.
There comes a time for every student on campus when they need a bit of privacy, now we all have a space for that.
Julianna Eveland can be reached at [email protected] or @theorion_news on Twitter.
