I work at the GLBTA Programs Office here at the U, and one of the major we are working on is known as the Transgender Commission, which works to create change and equality for people of all gender identities and expressions. Gender neutral restroom access is one of the many things that the commission is working on perpetuating throughout campus. James Nord of the Minnesota Daily wrote an article about the work. Click here to read the article.
This is a feminist issue because it is addressing the concerns of transgender identifying people, those with chronic illnesses, people with disabilities, and those who are made uncomfortable by gender-specific public restrooms.
It is an unfortunate turn of events that the only gender neutral restroom in Appleby Hall, which houses the GLBTA Programs Office, has been incapacitated for several weeks. People who access the Programs Office have voiced complaints about the lack of adequate facilities and are hindered from visiting. Facilities have been contacted several times and have yet to make it available, or even provide updates as to the progress. This is a clear lack of concern for the needs of those who require or would prefer a gender neutral private restroom.