As part of the plan to create safe, inclusive, and welcoming spaces for trans and gender variant people in Vancouver, the Board of Parks and Recreation will be asking for the public’s input on signage and options.
The Trans* and Gender Variant Working Group, (TGVWG), have put out a report and have made a number of recommendations including human resource training, program expansions and signage and literature. One part of the report recommends changing signs on washrooms and change rooms to make them universal spaces.
There are already a number of universal facilities in Vancouver park board facilities, and commissioner Trevor Loke says they just want to make sure everyone feels welcome and included.
“We think that the recommendation of universal washrooms is a good idea,” says Loke. “We will be using more inclusive language based on the BC Human Rights Code.”
Loke says they have had occasions where people have entered a washroom of the gender they identify with and have been told to get out, and it more extreme cases, have been beaten.
“Let’s instead just put a toilet or a wheelchair on that space to let people know anyone can use it,” says Loke.
The TGVWG has made a number of recommendations for signs for the bathrooms, but Loke says this should not be a big change for anyone.
“The BC Human Rights Code says people can already use the washroom of their choice,” he says.
“Trans-people do have the right to use the washroom.”
For more information on the report and to provide feedback, visit the TGVWG website.
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