Amid an ongoing debate regarding which locker rooms transgender and intersex people should use, the University of California, Davis has decided to get rid of gender segregated locker rooms altogether.
The university announced the change back in February, revealing plans to convert its men’s and women’s locker rooms at its recreation centers into “universal” all-sex locker rooms. The university said that the change was made in the name of inclusivity.
“We value inclusive, accessible environments that accommodate the diverse needs of our community. We are pleased to announce that we will be remodeling the current locker room facilities to implement universal locker rooms,” the university said in its announcement via Fox News.
“All campus recreation members can use our universal locker rooms, regardless of who they are or how they identify. These spaces are inclusive of members with disabilities and members of all gender identities.”
While the locker rooms themselves will be open to everyone regardless of gender, there will be plenty of privacy for everyone. The university revealed that all toilets, changing rooms and cabanas will be individual, private spaces with floor-to-ceiling locking doors.
UC Davis says that the new locker room style “offers more privacy for all members” compared to the current format.
The university expects to spend $5 million on the renovations. The renovated locker rooms are not expected to reopen until September.
