The California State Senate will consider a bill to require all public and charter schools to have at least one gender-neutral restroom on the premises. The initiative, launched by Democratic Congressman Josh Newman, is one more step in a project by members of this party to make the Golden State a "refuge" for LGBT and trans families.
Schools should be welcoming, safe places for all students 🏳️🌈
By requiring all K-12 schools to provide gender-inclusive restroom facilities, we’ll ensure the well-being of our LGBTQ+ & non-binary students and foster safer school communities for everyone.https://t.co/vbS31o4YFX pic.twitter.com/rsbc080voN
— Senator Josh Newman (@JoshNewmanCA) February 17, 2023
"Safer communities"
In a press release, Newman justified his proposal to ensure the well-being of LGBT students and "safer school communities for all."
Schools should provide a safe and inclusive environment for all students, one where they’re able to focus on learning and where they’re encouraged to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By requiring all California K-12 schools to provide gender-inclusive restroom facilities on campus, we’ll ensure the well-being of our LGBTQ+ and non-binary students and ensure safer school communities for everyone.
The bill has been supported by fellow state senator Scott Wiener, a well-known LGBT rights activist who has spearheaded a number of LGBT rights bills. "Every child and adolescent should have access to a bathroom that comports with their gender identity, and for some young people, that means bathrooms that don’t force them into a binary choice," he said.
