As students move through the Loker Student Union at California State University, Dominguez Hills, many rely on the building’s all-gender restrooms. However, stall shortages and open spaces within the bathrooms have concerned some.
Several all-gender restrooms in the LSU have only two to three usable toilet stalls, while additional spaces—where urinals were previously installed—remain empty. While the restrooms were redesigned to create a more inclusive environment, some students say the current layout does not fully meet their needs.
“I avoid those restrooms due to the lack of availability of stalls,” said Xiomara Gonzalez. She described the restrooms as a last resort and said the removal of urinals without replacing them with additional stalls makes the space feel incomplete.
Students also addressed availability and comfort. “If I go into the restroom that only has two stalls, I won’t feel safe,” said Rocel Talabis, an undergraduate student. “There are not that many stalls, and if it’s crowded, I’ll probably just go to another restroom.”
Privacy was also mentioned by some students. One student, who asked to remain anonymous, described the experience as “kind of awkward,” adding that they sometimes become more aware of who else is in the space. “Privacy is really important,” the student said.
At the same time, not all students use the all-gender restrooms. Henry Ade, a second year business transfer student, said he avoids them altogether. “I don’t feel comfortable using restrooms with women,” he said. “Privacy is extremely important while using the restroom.”
According to LSU Interim Executive Director Jaime Leal, the removal of urinals was part of an effort to create a more inclusive environment. “In an effort to convert them, we removed the urinals so that we could create a more inclusive experience for all members of our campus community,” Leal said.
However, converting those empty spaces into additional toilet stalls is not a simple process. “There was an economic shift, and we were faced with budget challenges, so we had to pause,” Leal said. “We weren’t in a position to explore that at that time.”
Leal also confirmed that the layout is not limited to one restroom. “The majority of our restrooms were converted… primarily what was originally the men’s restrooms,” he said.
He explained that structural limitations also play a role. “Because the plumbing was designed for urinals, converting them to toilets would require more in-depth construction… which would be an elevated cost,” Leal said.
While some students have raised concerns, Leal said stall availability has not been a major issue brought forward through official feedback channels. The LSU gathers input through initiatives such as its “Talk To Us” campaign, which allows students to submit feedback online or through QR codes placed throughout the building.
Still, student experiences suggest a gap between design and daily use. “I think the current layout does not support the idea that was implemented,” Gonzalez said. “It actually reinforces discomfort.”
Leal emphasized that the LSU remains committed to improving the space. “We are committed to having restrooms that are inclusive and provide every member of our campus community a safe and inclusive experience,” he said.
Representatives from Associated Students, Inc. and the Queer Culture & Resource Center were contacted for comment, but did not respond by the time of publication.