Is universal design ethically mandated?
Whether gender-neutral restrooms or a similar concept are the right form of universal design is a decision each campus must make. Although it may be subtle, there is a difference between thinking of accessibility strictly as compliance with the law and seeing it as a way of meeting people’s needs. Compliance with ADA is essential. But, by approaching accessibility as a way of meeting individual needs, facility executives can find the most effective and often most cost-effective ways of complying with the law. (Stein, 2003, ¶ 9) Even if not legally bound to facilitate gender-neutral restrooms, one might pause to consider the ethical obligations of the college union profession’s creed. According to the Role of the College Union: … today’s union is the gathering place of the college. The union provides services and conveniences that members of the college community need in their daily lives and creates an environment for getting to know and understand others through formal and informal as
