Amid the continuing discussion about which locker rooms transgender and intersex individuals should access, the University of California, Davis has opted to eliminate gender-separated locker rooms entirely.
The institution announced this change in February, outlining its intention to transform the men’s and women’s locker rooms at its recreational facilities into “universal” all-sex locker rooms. The university explained that this decision was driven by a commitment to 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.”
This change quickly sparked outrage amongst some people on social media.
“This is beyond [messed] up! Be prepared to lose a lot of women to this insanity,” tennis legend Martina Navratilova wrote.
“I’d really like to know. Are there ANY women who would go shower and change in a locker room with men? Why even have a locker room? Just put the lockers in the middle of the quad. If everyone is changing in front of everyone what’s the point?” one person wrote in a post on X.
“Hey California Dads, did you vote for this?” someone else added.
“I’m a UC Davis alum and my daughters are considering going to UC Davis for undergrad. These “gender-inclusive” policies that they are full steam ahead on make me SERIOUSLY concerned,” another person wrote.
“UC system is supported by tax dollars. Stop paying taxes may be the only answer,” someone else added.
It’s worth noting that although the locker rooms will welcome individuals of any gender, privacy will still be ensured for all. The university noted that every toilet, changing area, and cabana will consist of individual, private units equipped with floor-to-ceiling locking doors.
UC Davis says that this updated locker room design “offers more privacy for all members” compared to the existing setup.
