All-Gender Washrooms: Supporting Safety, Dignity, and Inclusion

The presence of all-gender washrooms in workplaces has become an increasingly visible component of broader efforts to foster inclusion, respect, and operational effectiveness across the Defence Team. For members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, particularly those who are transgender, non-binary, or otherwise gender diverse, access to safe and appropriate washroom facilities is not simply a matter of convenience but one of safety, dignity, and belonging.

Research consistently highlights the risks faced by gender diverse individuals in gendered public spaces. A 2019 Canadian survey conducted by Trans PULSE Canada found that 57% of transgender and non-binary respondents in Ontario avoided public washrooms due to fear of confrontation or harassment. Similarly, Statistics Canada data indicate that transgender and non-binary individuals are significantly more likely than their cisgender counterparts to experience unwanted or inappropriate behaviours in public spaces, including comments, attention, and harassment. These findings underscore a critical reality: for many, the simple act of using a washroom can be a source of stress, exclusion, or harm.

All-gender washrooms offer a practical and effective means of mitigating these risks. By providing a space that is not restricted by gender designation, they reduce the likelihood of individuals being challenged, questioned, or excluded based on appearance or identity. Importantly, these facilities benefit more than just gender diverse individuals: parents with children, caregivers, and individuals requiring assistance from someone of a different gender also gain increased accessibility and comfort.

Concerns are sometimes raised that all-gender washrooms may compromise safety; however, available research does not support this claim. Studies examining jurisdictions that have implemented inclusive washroom policies have found no increase in safety incidents as a result. For example, a 2018 study published in Sexuality Research and Social Policy found that nondiscrimination laws, including access to facilities aligned with gender identity, were not associated with increased reports of privacy or safety violations in public spaces. More broadly, safety risks in washrooms are not linked to inclusive policies, but rather to individual behaviours that are already addressed through existing laws and regulations. In contrast, evidence consistently shows that restricting access to appropriate facilities increases the risk of harassment and harm for transgender and gender diverse individuals.

The Government of Canada, and thus the CAF, has recognized the importance of inclusive spaces through policies and guidance that promote accessibility, diversity, and equity in federal workplaces. This includes direction to ensure that employees have access to washroom facilities that correspond to their gender identity, as well as the encouragement of establishing all-gender options where feasible in current infrastructure, and accounting for the same in the design of new infrastructure. Many 17 Wing buildings now have all gender washrooms designated; diligent work continues to be done to identify washrooms that can be changed to all-gender, focusing on single-stall washrooms to increase the safety and comfort of 17 Wing members, despite current infrastructure challenges.

This initiative, and the 17 Wing commitment to furthering it, demonstrates ongoing efforts continue to advance awareness and inclusion of 2SLGBTQI+ members within the federal government. Initiatives such as updated policies, education and training programs, and engagement through advisory organizations—including the DTPAO—demonstrate a sustained commitment to addressing historical inequities and fostering a culture of respect.

Safe spaces, whether physical (all-gender washrooms) or cultural (respectful and inclusive workplace environments), play a vital role in operational effectiveness. When members feel safe and supported, they are better able to focus on their duties, contribute fully to their teams, and bring their authentic selves to work. This directly enhances cohesion, morale, and overall mission success. All-gender washrooms are one visible example of how thoughtful design and policy can contribute to a safer, more inclusive workplace where every person is treated with dignity and respect.

-DTPAO