In the coming weeks, UB’s School of Architecture and Planning will host a panel discussion and exhibition centered around the pressing issues surrounding inclusive design and access to public restrooms and locker rooms.
The symposium “Dialogue on Gender Diversity and Space” will be held online and in-person at 403 Hayes Hall on the UB South Campus on November 15th from 5:30pm to 7pm. A virtual option is available to those who register online.
A related exhibition, “Private Bodies in Public Spaces,” will be held from October 30th to November 30th. 21 at Hayes Hall Gallery. The exhibition opening is scheduled for his October 30th from 5:15pm to 7pm at Hayes Hall Gallery. Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until November 21st.
“As essential facilities to our communities, these spaces play an important role in shaping the overall experience of individuals of diverse backgrounds and abilities. We address the complexities surrounding interactions between organizations and public spaces and explore innovative solutions to create more inclusive environments,” said Beth Tauch, associate professor in UB’s School of Architecture. .
The panel discussion will feature three prominent experts with unique insights and experience in the field of inclusion and advocacy.
- Ivan Coyote is an acclaimed writer, performer, and LGBTQ+ advocate. Coyote demonstrates exceptional storytelling ability, sharing personal experiences that highlight the importance of inclusivity in public spaces.
- said Susan Stryker, professor emeritus of gender and women’s studies at the University of Arizona. Stryker is an influential scholar whose research has contributed significantly to the understanding of gender and transgender issues.
- Seb Choe, Associate at JSA/MIXdesign. Choe is an architect and media designer who directs design projects related to research, education, and inclusive his designs. Website. These provide insight into the practical aspects of creating fair and accessible public toilets and changing rooms.
Symposium panelists will explore various aspects of inclusive public spaces, particularly those that impact the LGBTQ+ community, and will address topics such as:
- Design restrooms and locker rooms that are inclusive and accessible to all people, regardless of gender, age, or physical ability.
- We understand the challenges faced by marginalized communities and explore ways to break down barriers and foster a culture of inclusion.
- Advocacy and policy efforts aimed at driving positive change and promoting inclusivity in public accommodations.
- Leverage personal stories and lived experiences to create empathy and understanding in the broader community.
The discussion will be moderated by State University of New York School of Architecture Distinguished Professor Edward Steinfeld, an expert on inclusive design in the built environment and director of the Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access (IDEA Center).
“As a leading research center in inclusive design, we at the IDEA Center recognize the importance of creating spaces that accommodate the needs of all individuals,” says Steinfeld. “This conversation about fair and inclusive public restrooms and locker rooms will help foster a more accessible and welcoming environment for everyone in our community.”
Both the symposium and exhibit are open to the public. Panel participants can participate in person or virtually through online platforms. Q&A sessions encourage questions and active participation from the audience. In-person attendees will have access to an interactive exhibit on inclusive restrooms and locker rooms before and after the symposium.
This symposium is hosted by The IncLOOsion Project, a team of faculty and community members conducting research and public education on inclusive restroom design. They include School of Architecture and Planning faculty members Steinfeld, Beth Tauck, Adam Thibodeau, and Randy Fernando, along with community members Andrew Gunther and Maya Karch. , also includes many alumni and students who contributed through class activities in 2022-2023.
UB’s sponsors include the School of Architecture and Planning, Office of Inclusive Excellence, IDEA Center, Gender Institute, LGBTQ Faculty Association, and Lesbian/Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Alliance. Community sponsors include Evergreen Health and the Pride Center of Western New York.