Chicago Public Schools recently trumpeted the schools district’s move to gender neutral bathrooms.
The bathrooms are gender neutral in that any student will be allowed to use any restroom rather than being designated “boys” and “girls” restrooms.
CPS attributed the change to federal policy.
Collection of sign designs for Gender Neutral bathrooms.
“We are taking steps to create more inclusive and supportive schools. One change that will be implemented this school year relates to our school bathrooms. In compliance with new federal guidelines, all CPS students and staff will have fair and equitable access to bathroom facilities that align with their gender identity,” Camy Pratt, the school system's Title IX Officer, said in a video.
The school system said signage in its 638 school serving 340,658 students will be swapped out.
“We will be providing all schools with updated signage that makes our bathrooms more inclusive,” Pratt said. “It will identify the fixtures available in each restroom and make it clear that all restrooms are open for use by anyone who feels comfortable.
Staff will have separate facilities.
“Staff will continue to have staff-only restrooms available to them,” Pratt said.
The school district chalked the efforts up to Title IX compliance.
The oft-cited federal civil rights law is gaining renewed vigor as a coach-all for “equity” issues.
“This is an incredibly important step to increase gender equity for all, which is why we will be requiring all schools to post this signage by Dec. 1 of this school year,” Pratt said. “Our district's Office of Student Protections and Title IX is also working on a long-term plan to create more permanent signage for our bathrooms.”
The district unveiled a number of designs for “Gender Neutral” washroom and bathroom signs. The signs include a figure with half of a skirt.
CPS Schools also depicted a sign in its video indicating “GIRLS+” and reading “This restroom has stalls. All who feel comfortable are welcome to use this restroom.”
One sign's insignia oddly placed a duck’s head on the body of a whale.
Another sign reads “Anyone who fells most comfortable using this restroom is welcome.”
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