January 18, 2019

Washrooms at ArtStarts are now Gender-Neutral

Exciting news! Our washrooms at ArtStarts are now gender-neutral!

What does this mean?

The washrooms at ArtStarts are no longer separated into “men’s” and “women’s.” Yay!

We now have:

• One washroom with multiple stalls – it has a purple door!
• One washroom with a single stall, a urinal, and an outside door that locks – the door is green!

Why?

We care about transgender, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming children and young people! Their safety in our space is a priority. ArtStarts wants to increase our accessibility and join organizations like the City of Vancouver, the Parks Board, and the Vancouver Public Library who have also made their washrooms gender-neutral. Want more information? Ivan Coyote explains why we need gender-neutral bathrooms here.

Who is this for?

Gender-neutral washrooms are important for everyone! Most importantly, they mean that transgender, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming people (especially trans women) can safely use the washroom without experiencing violence. They also mean that parents and kids of all genders can use the washroom without having to be separated.

But what if I see someone who looks like they belong in a different washroom as me?

Trying to figure out someone’s gender or sex by looking at them is called “gender-policing.” It’s inappropriate, hurtful, and offensive. If you hear people doing this at ArtStarts, please say “Other peoples’ gender is none of your business.” No gender-policing or misgendering at ArtStarts, please!

I feel uncomfortable about the idea of using the washroom with people who seem like a different gender than me.

You can use the locking single-stall washroom if you would like to use a washroom by yourself.

Isn’t this unsafe?

No! Gendered washrooms are more likely to be unsafe spaces where transgender and gender non-conforming kids regularly experience violence and assault. Gender-neutral washrooms are only one step towards making the world a better place for transgender and nonbinary people.

I have more questions!

Great! Our friends at QMUNITY and SOGI 1 2 3 have more resources for you. You can also contact our Program Manager, Leah, at [email protected] if you have more questions.

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