University of Colorado at Boulder 'Bathroom Squad' Inspecting for Disabilities Act Violations and Gender-Neutral Options
ByThe University of Colorado (UC), Boulder student government has shown it is willing to look into every last corner of campus to ensure fairness for all, even in the school's bathrooms.
According to the Daily Camera, the student government formed what they called "the bathroom squad" to inspect the campus' bathrooms to ensure they meet standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). They will also grade for availability of gender-neutral restrooms.
The task force began their operation during the summer and has already reported too few gender-neutral restrooms in numerous buildings, as well as ADA violations.
For example, "the bathroom squad" has reported certain stalls marked handicap-accessible have doors too heavy and bathroom entry doors not wide enough for a wheelchair to fit through. Caitlin Pratt, the director of safety and inclusion for the CU Student Government, said some bathrooms had trash receptacles blocking soap dispensers and towels.
Each inspection reportedly takes about 20 minutes and, by the end of the semester, the task force will have a comprehensive document detailing their findings.
"The ADA requirements are the bare minimum," Pratt said. "It would be nice to go above and beyond."
Pratt, a CU senior and political science major, said the new inspection initiative is an extension of a report from a similar one done a few years ago by the school's Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer Resource Center.
"The push is to make sure there's space in universities for everyone," Pratt previously told Campus Reform. "Regardless of their disability status, gender identity or expression... it's just families as well. It's just to make sure there are bathrooms that can accommodate everyone."
A CU student government resolution already in place requires the inclusion of gender-neutral restrooms in any building funded with student fees, should it undergo remodeling. The school's Rec Center is currently under construction and will include gender-neutral locker rooms. Additionally, a proposal is underway to renovate the Glenn Miller Ballroom and will also include gender-neutral restrooms.