Unisex Bathrooms Are Not Always The Answer
I had an experience today. It has raised some interesting discussion amongst my peers, so I feel it would be worthwhile sharing in the wider community.
I was attending a conference — Laracon EU if we’re going to be specific — which is, like most tech events, still male dominated. Not for a lack of trying, though! Laracon EU has an extensive code of conduct and a diverse set of speakers. I was comfortable buying a ticket.
Today, however, I found trouble in an unlikely place — the unisex bathroom.
I can appreciate the reasons for wanting to provide a unisex/gender free bathroom. When it comes to inclusivity, we need people to feel comfortable to go (pun intended) wherever they want. Naturally that includes those who don’t identify with the gender binary; those who are often puzzled as to which door to use, and fear of negative repercussions should they choose the ‘wrong’ one. Especially in light of recent controversies such as the North Carolina Bathroom Bill.
In opening doors for some in the name of inclusivity, we have unwittingly closed doors on others. By not providing an alternative female-only facility in an otherwise extremely male-dominated space, this created a situation in which I felt incredibly uncomfortable.
