December 18, 2015

Yesterday, the City Council unanimously approved Nick’s Resolution requiring all-user single-stall restrooms in the City of Portland.

The City action follows the lead of regional partners like Multnomah County, Portland State University, and Portland Community College; and cities like Washington D.C. and Austin, Texas.

Nick’s proposal will ensure that the City’s single-user restroom facilities are accessible to everyone. Today, City restrooms are designated for use by either men or women. This leaves parents with children, older adults with attendants, and transgender individuals with limited options. Today’s resolution directs that within six months signs at those restrooms be updated to reflect that all users are welcome.

The proposal was developed with, and supported by, key community partners, including Multnomah County, Basic Rights Oregon (BRO), the Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center (SMYRC), Public Hygiene Lets Us Stay Human (PHLUSH), Disability Rights Oregon, DEEP, and others.

Special thanks to Multnomah County Chair Deborah Kafoury for joining us and lending her support to this proposal.

This simple but meaningful change sends a clear signal that the City Council believes City facilities should be inclusive and welcoming to all.

Resolution proposes unisex bathrooms for city

Brent Weisberg on KOIN, December 17

Hall Monitor: Accessible Restrooms, At Last?

Dirk VanderHart in the Portland Mercury, December 9