The dark side

The Dark Side of Universal Change Rooms: Safety, Voyeurism, and Mental Health Concerns “The current trend” of implementing universal change rooms in various provinces has sparked controversy and raised concerns over issues such as voyeurism, sexual assaults, and mental health. While the intention behind these inclusive spaces is commendable, it is essential to critically examine the unintended consequences and the impact they have on individuals, particularly children. The City of Pickering recently sent out a video via social media outlining all the reasons why they believe the Chestnut Hill Development Recreation Centre’s Universal Changeroom is, pardon the pun, fitting. The video mentions that the Universal change room uses signs posted in various areas, as a deterrent to remind people to keep clothes and bathing suits on at all times, notably while using the common area or the open stall showers. However, while signs serve as a visual reminder of expected behavior, they cannot guarantee compliance or prevent individuals with malicious intent from committing wrongful acts. One of the primary concerns surrounding universal change rooms is the increased vulnerability individuals face in these spaces. The absence of gender segregation can create an environment where voyeurism and sexual assaults become more prevalent. Incidents of voyeurism and inappropriate behavior have been reported, leading to a loss of privacy and a diminished sense of safety for many individuals. This poses a significant risk, particularly for children and those who have experienced trauma, as they may not feel comfortable or secure in these shared spaces. I would also like to point out that though the person in the video claims that all you can see under the doors of the stalls is someone’s feet, I can assure you that my head and most of my body can easily maneuver my way under the stall door(s), and over the stalls, leaving plenty of room for those individuals with malicious intents to easily slide their hands, feet, or possibly a gimbal stick under or over the doors making it easy for their phones or other recording devices to record potential victims while using these vulnerable spaces. Durhams recent police report noted that they posted a fake child web site wich attracted over 6,000 hits in one day soliciting child sex. Durhams most recent campaign was put forth in fight against human trafficking erecting sign along major roads. The threat here in Durham is real. Do we really need to invite the possible risk of criminal act to take place in our community recreation centres. Another important issue that was never even mentioned in Pickering’s Chestnut Hill Recreation Centre video is the psychological impact of these universal change rooms which cannot be overlooked, especially for children. Not to mention the lack of regards for cultural and religious values. The lack of respect and the pressure to conform to a specific societal agenda norm can lead to increased anxiety, stress, and impact natural cognitive development for children. Children, in particular, may find it challenging to navigate these vulnerable spaces, resulting in feelings of insecurity, discomfort, and even exclusion. It is crucial to recognize the importance of providing options that prioritize the mental well-being of individuals, particularly those who may already be struggling with mental health challenges. As a strong advocate for the people, every male and female,should have the right to make an informed decision about the spaces they feel most comfortable using. Whether they choose to use their biological changeroom or the universal changeroom which is inclusive to all, regardless of their age or membership status. While the Corporation of The City of Pickering continues to argue that Chestnut Hill Development Recreation Complex’s universal change room is safe, and promotes inclusivity and equality, it has inadvertently created increased anxiety, stress, and mental health issues amongst the community by taking away individuals right to feel safe in vulnerable spaces. Maybe Pickering could look at how Brooklyn designed their recreation center. They have biological changerooms for males and females to use regardless of their age, and instead of having a big open area, monitored by signs for the universal changerooms, they have individual rooms to be used as family/universal changerooms recognizing the importance of individual choice and autonomy. Giving everyone the right to personal privacy and personal comfort. Way to go Brooklyn.