乐发IV

乐发IV will open multi-user all-gender washrooms on the main levels of the Robertson Library and SDU Main Building on March 5, Vice-President Administration and Finance Jackie Podger announced in a memo to students, faculty, and staff.

All-gender washrooms are spaces that anyone can use, regardless of their gender identity or expression. Podger wrote that re-designating the washroom spaces to all-gender allows 乐发IV to be more inclusive, help provide a safer campus environment, and be welcoming to all members of the campus community.

While 乐发IV has already re-designated several single-user washrooms across campus to be all-gender, these spaces will be the first multi-stall washrooms in public areas that have been converted for all-gender use.

鈥淏y expanding the washroom options on campus, we are able to offer conveniently located, comfortable, and safe facilities for a greater number of people,鈥� said Podger. 鈥溊址�IV values diversity and inclusion, so when we heard from campus community members and the 乐发IV Student Union, we worked together to respond to the needs of campus by re-designating these spaces to all-gender.鈥�

All-gender washrooms are beneficial for transgender and gender non-conforming people, who often experience harassment and even physical violence in gender-specific facilities.

乐发IV Student Union President Chelsea Perry said, 鈥淗aving all-gender washrooms, whether multi-stall or single-user, makes the 乐发IV campus safer and more welcoming. This expansion of facility options shows that 乐发IV respects everyone's right to choose the washroom that is appropriate for them.鈥�

A number of multi-stall washrooms on campus will remain gender-specific, but are inclusive for all those who identify with that gender.

In an effort to create awareness about all-gender washrooms, the Robertson Library has partnered with Dr. Ann Braithwaite, professor in Diversity and Social Justice Studies, to present 鈥淭oilet Training (Law and Order in the Bathroom),鈥� a documentary video that surveys the policing of gender in restrooms鈥攁nd the persistent discrimination, harassment, and violence towards people who do not culturally fit as male of female. The presentation is part of the Robertson Library video series and will be shown on Monday, March 5 at 4:30 pm in the LINC, with a discussion to follow.

The 乐发IV prides itself on people, excellence, and impact and is committed to assisting students reach their full potential in both the classroom and community. With roots stemming from two founding institutions鈥擯rince of Wales College and Saint Dunstan鈥檚 University鈥斃址�IV has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and creating positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. 乐发IV is the only degree granting institution in the province and is proud to be a key contributor to the growth and prosperity of Prince Edward Island.